Earl Grey Raspberry Iced Tea

Earl Grey Raspberry Iced Tea is my secret to instantly perking up any summer gathering. The blend of fragrant Earl Grey and juicy raspberries creates a taste that feels both elegant and easygoing. With honey’s gentle sweetness and lemons’ bright touch, this drink turns any hot afternoon into a special occasion.

My friends always ask for this at every picnic or book club I host. Once I had no raspberries and subbed with strawberries and still got rave reviews.

Ingredients

• Earl Grey tea bags: give the drink its signature fragrant note from real bergamot oil Look for quality brands with visible tea leaves inside the bag
• Fresh raspberries: add sweet tart flavor and a lively pink hue If fresh berries are pricey frozen work just as well
• Honey: sweetens gently without overpowering Feel free to use a wildflower or orange blossom honey for unique undertones
• Lemon juice: provides brightness and balances the flavors Freshly squeezed lemon really lifts the whole drink
• Ice cubes: keep everything super chilled Choose clear ice if you want an extra gorgeous effect in the glass
• Fresh mint leaves: make an extra fresh garnish Use leaves that are bright green no wilting

Step-by-Step Instructions

Steep the Tea:

Pour freshly boiled water over the Earl Grey tea bags in a heatproof bowl or pitcher Steep for about five minutes so the tea has a full but gentle flavor Remove the bags with a spoon pressing softly to extract any extra liquid and aroma

Blend Raspberries and Honey:

While the tea is still warm add the raspberries and honey directly Stir and use a fork or muddler to gently crush the berries This releases their pink juice and ensures honey dissolves completely Let the liquid sit until it is closer to room temperature

Add Lemon Juice:

Squeeze a fresh lemon and pour the juice into the cooled tea raspberry mixture Stir very well so the lemon becomes fully mixed into the drink

Chill the Tea:

Carefully pour the tea mixture into a pitcher Place it in your refrigerator and let it get fully cold This takes about one to two hours and ensures maximum refreshment

Serve and Garnish:

Fill each glass with plenty of ice cubes Pour cold raspberry Earl Grey tea over the ice Top with a few extra raspberries and a couple of mint leaves for a burst of color and fragrance Serve right away

Save

Raspberries are my absolute favorite part of this drink Their tartness pairs perfectly with the citrus note of Earl Grey and I love tossing in extra for color My sister always helps me make a batch for family barbecues and the glasses are empty faster than I can refill them

Storage Tips

Keep the iced tea in a lidded pitcher in the fridge for up to forty eight hours If you want to keep berries looking nice strain the mixture before chilling and use whole berries only as garnish when serving

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have honey try agave syrup or simple syrup for sweetness Use frozen raspberries in place of fresh just make sure you taste for sweetness since they sometimes vary Earl Grey can be swapped for English breakfast tea though it will lose the slight citrus note

Save

Serving Suggestions

Serve in tall glasses with a handful of ice To make the drink more festive add a slice of lemon or a raspberry on a cocktail pick A splash of sparkling water on top makes it taste even more refreshing for a brunch or special event

Cultural Context

Earl Grey tea goes back to the nineteenth century as a classic British blend Its unique citrusy flavor from bergamot has inspired countless desserts and drinks Adding berries like raspberries is a fun American twist that brings modern freshness to this vintage beverage

Recipe FAQs

→ Can frozen raspberries replace fresh raspberries?

Yes, frozen raspberries can be used if fresh ones aren’t available. Thaw first for easier mashing and flavor release.

→ How do I adjust the sweetness?

Taste the mixture after adding honey, then add more or less to match your preference before chilling.

→ Can I make this drink ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the tea in advance and refrigerate. Assemble with ice and garnishes just before serving.

→ Is there a substitute for honey?

You can use agave syrup, maple syrup, or simple syrup to sweeten if preferred or for vegan options.

→ What garnish works best for serving?

Fresh raspberries and mint leaves add color and aroma. A lemon wedge can also provide a decorative touch.

→ How long should the tea chill?

For best flavor, refrigerate for 1–2 hours, allowing the tea to become thoroughly chilled and flavors to meld.