Hibiscus Iced Tea – Refreshing Antioxidant Summer Drink

Hibiscus iced tea is a vibrant herbal drink made by steeping dried hibiscus flowers in hot water and chilling the infusion for a refreshing beverage. This naturally caffeine-free tea has a tart, cranberry-like flavor and deep ruby color. Ready in about 10 minutes, it’s a refreshing drink perfect for warm days. The simple steeping process extracts the bold color and bright flavor of hibiscus.

Vertical hibiscus iced tea with lemon garnish and ruby red color
Hibiscus iced tea in glass with lemon slices and deep red color

Hibiscus Iced Tea

mother son portrait heart shaped face golden hour Carly Morrison
A bright, tart herbal iced tea made with dried hibiscus flowers and lemon. Refreshing, naturally caffeine-free, and perfect for summer hydration
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Prep Time 2 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Chill Time 10 minutes
Total Time 7 minutes
Course beverage, Health Drink, tea
Cuisine Caribbean, International, Mexican
Servings 2 drinks (20 oz total)
Calories 15 kcal

Equipment

  • Small saucepan or kettle
  • Heatproof pitcher
  • Fine mesh strainer
  • Measuring spoons
  • Serving glasses

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons dried hibiscus flowers
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 –2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup optional
  • Ice cubes
  • Lemon slices for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan or kettle.
  • Add dried hibiscus flowers and remove from heat.
  • Cover and steep for 5 minutes until the liquid turns deep red.
  • Strain the tea into a heatproof pitcher.
  • Stir in lemon juice and honey if desired.
  • Allow to cool slightly, then pour over ice and serve.

Notes

Quality Ingredients: Use dried hibiscus petals (flor de jamaica) for the best color and flavor.
Flavor Balance: Hibiscus has a tart taste; adjust sweetness with honey or maple syrup.
Chill Tip: Refrigerate brewed tea for 30 minutes for a colder drink.
Storage: Store in the refrigerator up to 3 days in a sealed container.
Serving Idea: Add citrus slices or mint for extra freshness.
Variations:
  • Sparkling Hibiscus Tea: Top with sparkling water for a fizzy drink.
  • Berry Hibiscus Tea: Add raspberries or strawberries while steeping.
  • Mint Hibiscus Cooler: Add fresh mint leaves when chilling.

Nutrition

Calories: 15kcalCarbohydrates: 4gSodium: 2mgSugar: 3gVitamin C: 10mg
Keyword detox tea, hibiscus tea, iced herbal tea, jamaica drink, summer drink, vegan
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CONCLUSION

Hibiscus iced tea is a refreshing herbal drink with bright color and a naturally tangy flavor. It’s simple to make, caffeine-free, and perfect for warm days. Brew a batch and enjoy a vibrant, refreshing tea anytime.

Author

  • Mother and son portrait in daisy field during golden hour

    Carly Morrison is a Brooklyn-based food blogger behind "Carly Recipes" and mom to two picky eaters who've learned to love vegetables thanks to her air fryer magic. A former elementary school teacher turned recipe developer, she creates family-friendly meals from her Park Slope apartment using real ingredients and honest cooking advice. When she's not testing recipes in one of her three air fryers, you'll find her walking through Prospect Park or trying to convince her husband Jake that yes, they really do need another kitchen gadget.

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