The Ultimate Summer Hibiscus Ice Tea Recipe
There is something unmistakably summery about a cold glass of hibiscus iced tea.
Its brilliant ruby-red color looks almost too vivid to be real, while its naturally tart, fruit-forward flavor makes it especially refreshing on a hot afternoon. Lightly sweetened with honey and served over plenty of ice, this simple pitcher recipe is bright, beautiful, and easy to prepare.
Just be warned: apparently, hummingbirds are not the only ones who find hibiscus hard to resist.
88 Botanicals Recipe
Honey-Sweetened Hibiscus Iced Tea
A deeply ruby-red, naturally caffeine-free summer drink with bright hibiscus flavor, gentle honey sweetness, and optional fresh citrus.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup dried hibiscus flowers
- 8 cups water
- ½ cup honey, or more to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon, optional
- Ice
- Orange or lemon slices for garnish, optional
Directions
-
Heat the water.
Bring the water to a boil. -
Dissolve the honey.
Remove the water from the heat and stir in the honey while it is still hot. Continue stirring until the honey has completely dissolved. -
Steep the hibiscus.
Add the dried hibiscus flowers and allow them to steep for 15–20 minutes. -
Strain and finish.
Strain out the hibiscus flowers and stir in the lemon juice, if using. -
Chill completely.
Allow the tea to cool, then refrigerate until thoroughly chilled. -
Serve.
Pour over plenty of ice and garnish with an orange or lemon slice, if desired.
How to Adjust the Flavor
Hibiscus has a naturally bright, tart flavor often compared to cranberry. The amount of honey can be adjusted depending on whether you prefer a crisp, lightly sweetened tea or a sweeter summer drink.
Taste the tea after it has been strained. Add more honey while the tea is still warm enough for it to dissolve easily. A squeeze of fresh lemon makes the drink even brighter, while orange slices add a softer citrus note.
Brewing Tip
Keep the flavor bright, not harsh
Hibiscus develops its color and flavor quickly. Avoid boiling the dried flowers directly for an extended period, as excessive heat or over-steeping can create a more astringent flavor. Remove the water from the heat before adding the hibiscus, and strain the flowers once the tea reaches the strength you enjoy.
Five Easy Ways to Serve It
Can Hibiscus Iced Tea Be Made Ahead?
Yes. This recipe is ideal for preparing in advance. Store the finished tea in a covered pitcher in the refrigerator and serve it within several days for the freshest flavor.
Add ice, citrus slices, mint, or sparkling water immediately before serving.
Make It at Home
Ready to Brew Your Own Pitcher?
Our premium dried hibiscus contains nothing added and brews into a beautifully vivid tea with a bold, naturally tart flavor.