after a particularly warm Saturday spent tending the garden, my husband and I retreated to the porch, seeking a refreshing break. He was covered in soil from head to toe, wiping sweat from his brow, while I was rummaging through the fridge for something cool to offer. That’s when I decided to try something new with an old favorite—iced tea, but with a nostalgic twist inspired by cherry pie.
The cherries had been picked fresh from our backyard tree just days before, their rich red hue promising a burst of flavor. The scent of cinnamon simmering gently on the stove filled the kitchen, blending with the sweet aroma of vanilla and cherries as I stirred the simple syrup.
We poured the chilled tea into tall glasses, ice clinking softly, and settled into our chairs. The first sip was like a warm memory wrapped in summer’s cool embrace—a hint of spice, the sweet tang of cherries, and the comforting earthiness of black tea all at once. It felt like sharing a secret recipe passed down through generations, reimagined for a sunny afternoon.
That quiet moment on the porch—watching the garden sway and hearing birds sing—became a new tradition. It reminded me that some flavors, like good company and fresh air, are timeless.
Short Description
Cherry Pie Iced Tea is a refreshing, homemade iced tea that marries rich black tea with a sweet, cinnamon-infused cherry syrup. Perfectly balanced with vanilla and hints of warm spices, it’s a health-conscious, flavorful twist on a classic summer drink.
Key Ingredients
- 4 cups water (divided: 2 cups for tea, 2 cups for simple syrup)
- 3–4 black tea bags (or 2 tbsp loose-leaf black tea)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted (sweet or tart)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: Fresh mint leaves or lemon slices for garnish
- Optional Add-Ins: Splash of almond extract, pinch of ground nutmeg or allspice, bourbon or rum for an adult twist
Tools Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Fine-mesh sieve
- Tea strainer (if using loose-leaf tea)
- Large pitcher
- Spoon for mashing
- Measuring cups and spoons
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Brew the Tea
Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Remove from heat and steep the tea bags or loose-leaf tea for 5 minutes. Remove tea bags or strain leaves, then pour the brewed tea into a large pitcher.
Step 2: Make the Cherry Simple Syrup
In the same saucepan, combine remaining 2 cups of water, pitted cherries, sugar, and cinnamon stick. Simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
Reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes, mashing cherries gently to release juices. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, then strain through a fine-mesh sieve into the pitcher with brewed tea. Press solids to extract liquid, then discard them.
Step 3: Chill the Tea
Mix the tea and syrup thoroughly. Refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours until fully chilled. Add ice cubes to the pitcher for faster cooling.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Fill glasses with ice and pour the chilled tea over. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, lemon slices, or extra cherries. For an adult twist, add a splash of bourbon or rum.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Easy to prepare with simple ingredients
– Versatile for all ages and occasions
– Healthier alternative to sugary sodas and store-bought iced teas
– Aromatic blend of cinnamon and vanilla adds depth
– Can be customized with optional spices and spirits
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight pitcher or container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Stir before serving, as ingredients may settle.
This tea is best enjoyed cold; avoid reheating as it alters flavor and aroma.
For a quick refresh, add fresh ice and a splash of water or soda water to dilute if too strong.
FAQs
1. Can I use green or herbal tea instead of black tea?
Yes, green tea adds a lighter taste, while herbal teas create different flavor profiles. Adjust steeping time to avoid bitterness.
2. How do I make this drink less sweet?
Reduce sugar to 1/4 cup or substitute with honey or agave syrup for a natural sweetener.
3. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Use organic sugar and avoid honey if substituting sweetness.
4. Is it okay to use frozen cherries?
Yes, frozen cherries work well and may even release more flavor during simmering.
5. How long can I store the iced tea?
Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Fresh is best for optimal flavor.
Tips & Tricks
For a more intense cherry flavor, soak cherries overnight in a splash of almond extract before simmering.
Using fresh lemon slices adds a bright contrast to the sweetness.
Always taste the syrup before combining with tea and adjust sugar or spices as needed.
If you want fizz, add club soda right before serving for a sparkling twist.
Recipe Variations
Spiced Cherry Iced Tea: Add 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg and a pinch of cloves to the syrup while simmering. This gives the tea a warm, cozy flavor perfect for cooler days.
Adult Cherry Pie Iced Tea: Add 1.5 oz bourbon or rum per glass and garnish with a cinnamon stick stirrer for a festive cocktail.
Cherry Lemonade Tea: Substitute 1 cup of water in the syrup with freshly squeezed lemon juice for a tangy summer refresher.
Sugar-Free Version: Use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol and reduce simmering time to preserve natural sweetness from cherries.
Final Thoughts
Ssipping Cherry Pie Iced Tea after a long day spent outside is like a reward for the small, honest work of tending the earth. It’s a drink that brings a little sparkle to ordinary moments, mixing familiar flavors with a hint of surprise. This tea has become a gentle reminder that joy doesn’t have to be complicated; sometimes it’s just the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and spice in a glass.
Sharing it with my husband on our porch, watching the sun dip low and the garden settle into evening, feels like a small celebration of life’s simple blessings. I hope this recipe invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and maybe even start your own little tradition with every refreshing sip.
Cherry Pie Iced Tea
Print ThisIngredients
- 4 cups water (divided: 2 cups for tea, 2 cups for simple syrup)
- 3–4 black tea bags (or 2 tbsp loose-leaf black tea)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted (sweet or tart)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: Fresh mint leaves or lemon slices for garnish
- Optional Add-Ins: Splash of almond extract, pinch of ground nutmeg or allspice, bourbon or rum for an adult twist
Instructions
Step 1: Brew the Tea
Boil 2 cups of water, then steep tea bags or loose tea for 5 minutes. Remove tea leaves and pour the brewed tea into a large pitcher.
Step 2: Make Cherry Simple Syrup
In the same pan, combine 2 cups water, cherries, sugar, and cinnamon stick. Simmer 10–15 minutes, mashing cherries to release juice. Stir in vanilla, strain into the pitcher, pressing solids to extract liquid.
Step 3: Chill the Tea
Stir tea and syrup together. Refrigerate 1–2 hours until cold. Add ice for quicker cooling.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Pour over ice in glasses. Garnish with mint, lemon, or cherries. Optional: add bourbon or rum for an adult version.
