Description
Enjoy a refreshing Sparkling Peach Iced Tea, combining the sweetness of ripe peaches with the fizz of sparkling water. Perfect for hot summer days, this thirst-quencher is easy to make and ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 ripe peaches, pitted and sliced
- 4 cups of water
- 4 tea bags (black or green tea)
- 1/2 cup of sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup of sparkling water or club soda
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Wash the peaches thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or pesticides.
- Slice the peaches in half, remove the pits, and cut them into thin slices, leaving the skin on for added flavor.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced peaches and 1/2 cup of sugar, stirring gently to coat the peaches.
- Add 1 cup of water to the saucepan and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the peaches soften and release their juices.
- Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
- Strain the peach mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl or measuring cup, pressing down to extract as much syrup as possible. Discard the solids.
- In a separate pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
- Remove from heat and add the tea bags, letting them steep for 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the tea bags and stir in the prepared peach syrup. Adjust sweetness if necessary.
- Allow the tea to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Fill a tall glass halfway with ice cubes.
- Pour the chilled peach tea over the ice, filling the glass about two-thirds full.
- Top with sparkling water or club soda and stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves and optional peach slices for presentation.
- Serve immediately while cold and bubbly.
- For larger gatherings, prepare the tea and syrup in advance and store separately in the fridge. Assemble drinks just before serving.
- Experiment with different types of tea, such as herbal teas like hibiscus or chamomile.
- Reduce sugar in the peach syrup for a less sweet drink or use a sugar substitute.
- Blend some peach slices into the tea for a more intense flavor.
- For an adult version, add a splash of vodka or gin.
Notes
- This recipe is versatile; feel free to adjust the sweetness and tea type to your liking.
- The peach syrup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes