Blackberry Bliss Iced Tea Latte

As the weather warms up, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing iced tea latte to cool you down. This Blackberry Bliss Iced Tea Latte combines the robust flavor of Earl Grey tea with the sweet and tangy essence of fresh blackberries, creating a delightful drink that’s perfect for any sunny day. Let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe that will surely become your new favorite summer beverage.

Ingredients

Before we start, let’s gather our ingredients:

• ½ pint fresh blackberries (about 1 cup)
• ½ cup granulated sugar or any alternative sweetener
• 8 bags Earl Grey tea or 4 tablespoons loose-leaf tea
• ½ cup half-and-half or substitute (whole milk or any dairy alternative)
• 5 cups water
• 5 cups ice

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Water

Begin by bringing 5 cups of water to a boil. This will be used to steep our tea and blend with the blackberry mixture.

Step 2: Create the Blackberry Syrup

While the water is heating, place the fresh blackberries in a large bowl and add the granulated sugar. Crush the mixture into a thick, jam-like consistency. This will be the base of our flavorful blackberry syrup.

Step 3: Brew the Tea

Add the tea bags or loose-leaf tea to the blackberry mixture. Once the water reaches a boil, pour it over the fruit and tea. Let the sweet tea steep for about 5 minutes if using Earl Grey or other black tea. If you prefer green or white tea, reduce the steeping time slightly to avoid bitterness.

Step 4: Prepare the Ice

Meanwhile, fill a large pitcher with 5 cups of ice. This will help to cool down and dilute the tea concentrate.

Step 5: Strain and Cool the Tea

After the tea has steeped, hold a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth over the pitcher of ice. Carefully strain the blackberry tea concentrate over the ice. The ice will melt, instantly cooling the tea and diluting it to the perfect consistency.

Step 6: Store and Serve

You can store the iced blackberry tea in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, pour the blackberry tea over ice in a large glass. Add a drizzle of cream or fill up to half the glass with milk for a creamy finish. Garnish with fresh blackberries for an extra touch of elegance.

Additional Tips

• Sweetener Alternatives: If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using honey, agave syrup, or a sugar substitute instead of granulated sugar.
• Dairy Alternatives: For a dairy-free version, substitute half-and-half with almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk.
• Tea Varieties: While Earl Grey adds a unique flavor, feel free to experiment with different types of tea like green tea, white tea, or even herbal blends.

Nutrition Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Calories: 150 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4 servings

Conclusion

This Blackberry Bliss Iced Tea Latte is a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors, making it a refreshing treat for any time of the day. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hosting a summer gathering, this delightful beverage is sure to impress. Give it a try and let the blissful flavors transport you to a serene summer paradise. Enjoy!