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Cherry Iced Tea with a Twist – Drinks and Smoothie Recipes

Let’s talk about summer in a glass. You know that feeling when you’re sweating buckets after doing absolutely nothing and all you want is something cold, crisp, and slightly sweet? That’s where this cherry iced tea slides in like your best friend with air conditioning. It’s got real cherries, not just the fake syrupy stuff, and a tea base that actually tastes like tea. We’re not making candy water here. The best part? It’s as simple as boiling water. If you can steep a bag of tea and pit a cherry (or just buy the pre-pitted kind — no judgment), you can make this. Whether you’re sitting on the porch, lounging poolside, or stuck at your desk with a fan aimed directly at your face, this drink gives you a moment to exhale. It’s also the kind of thing that impresses guests — looks fancy, drinks easy. This is my go-to when I want something pretty but not fussy. And yes, you can absolutely spike it. Just saying. It fits right in with all your favorite recipes and drinks, especially if you're into cherry recipes, recipe smoothie ideas, or smoothie recipes that veer into refreshing territory. It’s one of those recipes smoothie lovers can sip all afternoon — a recipe drinks fans will ask you to bring to every barbecue.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Course: Beverages
Cuisine: American
Keywords: cherry recipes, Drinks and Smoothie Recipes, recipe drinks, recipe smoothie, recipes and drinks, recipes smoothie, smoothie recipes
Servings: 6 glasses
Author: Eleanor

Ingredients

  • 6 black tea bags
  • 4 cups water
  • 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
  • 1/3 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 4 cups cold water
  • Ice cubes, for serving
  • Fresh mint or lemon slices, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the tea bags and steep for 5–7 minutes.
  2. While the tea steeps, combine the cherries and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat.
  3. Cook the cherries for about 10 minutes until they break down and get syrupy. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks.
  4. Strain the cherry mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a pitcher to remove skins and pulp.
  5. Remove the tea bags and pour the brewed tea into the pitcher with the cherry syrup.
  6. Add 4 cups of cold water. Stir everything together and chill for at least an hour.
  7. Serve over ice with a sprig of mint or a lemon slice if you're feeling fancy.