Lavender Iced Tea

Lavender iced tea is a refreshing and aromatic beverage that perfectly combines floral notes with the coolness of iced tea. With its soothing scent and calming properties, this drink is ideal for relaxing on a warm day or adding a touch of elegance to any gathering. Made with dried culinary lavender and your choice of black or green tea, it’s easy to prepare and can be customized to your taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lavender iced tea is not only delicious but also has a unique, calming effect thanks to the natural properties of lavender. It offers a sophisticated alternative to standard iced tea and makes a beautiful addition to brunches, garden parties, or quiet afternoons at home. The recipe is simple to follow, requires minimal ingredients, and can be made ahead of time. It’s caffeine-optional depending on the type of tea you use, and can be sweetened to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Dried culinary lavender

• Water

• Tea bags (black tea, green tea, or herbal tea, depending on preference)

• Honey, sugar, or sweetener of choice (optional)

• Lemon slices (optional, for garnish)

• Ice cubes

Directions

1. Bring water to a boil in a saucepan.

2. Add the dried lavender to the boiling water. Remove from heat and let it steep for about 5 minutes.

3. Strain the lavender-infused water into a heat-safe pitcher to remove the flowers.

4. Add the tea bags to the hot lavender water and let steep according to the tea type:

   • Black tea: 3–5 minutes

   • Green tea: 2–3 minutes

   • Herbal tea: 5–7 minutes

5. Remove the tea bags and let the tea cool to room temperature.

6. Sweeten with honey or sugar if desired, and stir to dissolve.

7. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until chilled.

8. Serve over ice with optional lemon slices for garnish.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Cooling time: 1 hour
Total time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes

Variations

• Caffeine-free: Use herbal or rooibos tea instead of black or green tea.

• Citrus twist: Add lemon or orange zest during the steeping process for an extra layer of flavor.

• Floral blend: Combine lavender with chamomile or hibiscus for a floral tea blend.

• Sparkling version: Mix with sparkling water instead of still water after chilling.

• Iced tea lemonade: Mix with freshly squeezed lemonade for a floral Arnold Palmer.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover lavender iced tea in an airtight container or pitcher in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving, as natural separation may occur. This tea is meant to be served cold and should not be reheated, as the floral notes may become bitter when warmed again.

FAQs

How strong is the lavender flavor in this iced tea?

The strength of the lavender flavor can be adjusted by changing the amount of lavender used or the steeping time. A shorter steep yields a subtler flavor.

Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?

Yes, you can use fresh culinary lavender, but you’ll need to use more—roughly three times the amount of dried lavender.

Is lavender safe to consume in tea?

Culinary lavender is safe to consume and often used in beverages and baked goods. Always ensure you’re using food-grade lavender.

What kind of tea works best with lavender?

Black and green teas pair well with lavender. Herbal options like chamomile or rooibos also work for a caffeine-free version.

Can I sweeten the tea with something other than sugar?

Yes, you can use honey, agave syrup, stevia, or any preferred sweetener.

How do I prevent the tea from becoming bitter?

Avoid over-steeping the tea and lavender, and use the correct water temperature—especially for green tea, which requires cooler water.

Can I make this tea ahead of time?

Yes, it can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Is this tea suitable for kids?

Yes, if made with herbal or caffeine-free tea and sweetened lightly, it is suitable for children.

Can I freeze lavender iced tea?

Yes, you can freeze it in ice cube trays and use the cubes to chill future tea without dilution.

What does lavender iced tea pair well with?

It pairs well with light pastries, lemon desserts, fresh fruit, or cheese platters.

Conclusion

Lavender iced tea is a beautifully fragrant and calming beverage that’s easy to prepare and delightfully refreshing. Whether you’re hosting a summer brunch or enjoying a quiet afternoon, this elegant drink adds a unique floral twist to your menu. With customizable ingredients and various serving options, it’s a versatile recipe that you’ll find yourself returning to often.