Mango Iced Tea: A Refreshing Twist on a Classic Drink
Sipping on a chilled glass of iced tea feels like summer in every sip. When you combine the sweet, tropical flavor of mango with the smooth, slightly earthy taste of tea, you get a drink that’s both refreshing and sophisticated. Mango iced tea is more than just a beverage; it’s a mood-lifter, a mid-day refresher, and the perfect addition to gatherings or relaxing afternoons. Whether served at a barbecue, enjoyed poolside, or kept in the fridge for an anytime treat, this fruity take on a classic iced tea never disappoints.
Mango adds natural sweetness, which means you can cut down on refined sugar, making this drink a healthier option. Plus, it’s easy to prepare with just a handful of ingredients, and it can be customized to match your taste—whether you love it extra fruity, lightly sweetened, or infused with herbs for a gourmet touch.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Calories (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Black tea bags (2) | 0 |
| Ripe mango (1 medium) | ~200 |
| Honey or sugar (2 tbsp) | ~120 |
| Water (4 cups) | 0 |
| Ice cubes (1 cup) | 0 |
| Lemon juice (1 tbsp) | ~4 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Brew the tea: Boil 4 cups of water and steep the black tea bags for 4–5 minutes. Remove tea bags and let the tea cool slightly.
- Prepare the mango puree: Peel and cube the mango. Blend until smooth to create a fresh mango puree.
- Sweeten the tea: Stir honey or sugar into the warm tea until fully dissolved. Adjust sweetness to taste.
- Combine mango and tea: Mix the mango puree into the cooled tea. Stir well for a smooth, fruity base.
- Chill and serve: Pour over ice cubes, squeeze in fresh lemon juice, and garnish with mint leaves if desired.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Change the tea base: Use green tea for a lighter, more delicate flavor or herbal tea for a caffeine-free option.
- Sparkling twist: Replace half the water with sparkling water before serving for a fizzy, refreshing drink.
- Make it tropical: Add pineapple or passionfruit juice for a layered fruit flavor.
- Sugar-free version: Use stevia or monk fruit instead of sugar or honey for a healthier option.
- Batch-friendly: Double or triple the recipe for summer parties or gatherings.
Nutritional Information (per serving – approx. 1 glass)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~80 |
| Protein | 0.5g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fat | 0g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 18g |
| Sodium | 5mg |
Serving Suggestions
- Serve in mason jars with fresh mint sprigs for a rustic summer vibe.
- Garnish with mango slices or lemon wedges for a pop of color and extra flavor.
- Pair with light snacks like grilled vegetables, sandwiches, or fresh salads.
- Keep a pitcher in the fridge for a grab-and-go refreshing drink throughout the week.
Mango Iced Tea: A Refreshing Twist on a Classic Drink
4
servings10
minutes5
minutes80
kcalIngredients
2 black tea bags (or green tea for a lighter flavor)
1 medium ripe mango, peeled and cubed
2 tbsp honey or sugar (adjust to taste)
4 cups water
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 cup ice cubes
Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Brew the tea: Bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add tea bags and steep for 4–5 minutes. Remove tea bags and let the tea cool slightly.
- Prepare mango puree: Blend the mango cubes until smooth.
- Sweeten the tea: Stir honey or sugar into the warm tea until dissolved.
- Combine: Mix the cooled tea with mango puree. Stir well to combine.
- Chill and serve: Pour over ice, add lemon juice, and garnish with fresh mint or mango slices.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Best Mangoes: Use ripe, juicy varieties like Alphonso, Ataulfo, or Kent for the sweetest and richest flavor.
Make Ahead: Brew and mix the tea up to 2–3 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and stir before serving.
FAQs
1: Can I use green tea instead of black tea for mango iced tea?
Yes! Green tea gives a lighter, more refreshing flavor, while black tea adds a stronger, bolder taste. You can experiment with both to see which you prefer.
2: Can I make mango iced tea ahead of time?
Absolutely. Brew the tea and mix in the mango puree, then store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2–3 days. Just stir well before serving.
3: Can I use frozen mango instead of fresh mango?
Yes, frozen mango works just as well. Thaw it slightly before blending to make the puree smooth.
4: How can I make mango iced tea without added sugar?
You can skip sugar altogether or use natural alternatives like stevia, monk fruit, or honey. The sweetness of ripe mango often makes the drink naturally sweet enough.
5: What type of mango is best for this recipe?
Ripe, juicy mangoes like Alphonso, Ataulfo, or Kent work best because they provide a rich, naturally sweet flavor.
6: Can I make mango iced tea sparkling?
Yes! For a fizzy twist, replace some of the water with sparkling water right before serving.
Conclusion
Mango iced tea combines the comforting classic taste of tea with the sweetness of tropical fruit, making it a drink that feels indulgent yet refreshing. It’s simple to make, versatile to customize, and perfect for both everyday sipping and special occasions. Once you try it, this fruity twist on iced tea is bound to become a go-to in your home.
