Refreshing Fruit Tea Recipe (low sugar)

Name: Refreshing Fruit Tea Recipe (Low Sugar)
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: 4 cups iced tea; 1 cup cranberry juice; 1 cup orange juice; 1 tbsp fine sugar; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 2 cups ginger ale; orange slices for garnish

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This deliciously simple fruit tea recipe is the perfect refreshing drink for hot summer days! A blend of fruit juices, unsweetened tea and ginger ale, it’s an easy recipe that is a healthier option than soda. Make a big batch for summer parties and family gathering, and I promise you it will be a crowd please for kids and grown-ups alike!

glass pitcher filled with fruit tea and garnished with oranges next to 2 glasses filled with iced tea

I have loved iced tea since I was a kid and my mom and grandma would brew a big jug of it on the porch every few days. I didn’t even need to add much sugar to my glass, the slightly bitter but smooth sun tea was enough to satisfy on its own. Things haven’t changed much in my love for tea, but it is fun to switch things up and try something new. This recipe uses simple ingredients and doesn’t even require you to brew your own tea at home. I really think you’ll love upgrading your iced tea game with this southern fruit tea recipe.

Jump to:

Why this recipe works
Ingredients
How to make this perfect drink!
To brew your own iced tea
Fruit tea recipe FAQ’s
Refreshing Fruit Tea Recipe (Low Sugar)

Why this recipe works

Quick and easy to make, especially if using store bought tea
Minimal added sugar and makes a great alternative to sugar laden sodas and fruit punches.
Customizable to suit your specific flavors. Just follow the same ratios and switch up the fresh fruit and fruit juices you use.

bottles of iced tea, fruit juice and ginger ale to make flavored iced tea

Ingredients

4 cups unsweetened iced tea (either store bought or home-brewed)

1 cup each cranberry juice and orange juice

1 tablespoon fine sugar (more to taste if you want it more sweet)

2 cups ginger ale

fresh lemon juice from ½ a lemon

orange slices and lemon slices for garnish

How to make this perfect drink!

There isn’t much to making this tea, it’s so easy you can have a batch whipped up in less than 5 minutes.

In a large pitcher, add the iced tea, then the fruit juices. Stir in the sugar and lemon juice, and finish by adding in the ginger ale.

glass pitcher filled with iced tea and cranberry juice

Garnish with your fresh fruit slices and add in ice cubes just before serving. A gallon pitcher works best as to allow for enough space for the tea, ice and fruit garnish.

fruit tea recipe in a glass garnished with orange slices

To brew your own iced tea

If you’d like to brew your own tea at home to use in this fruit tea recipe, follow these simple steps.

To make a hot brew iced tea, in a large saucepan on medium heat, bring 8 cups water to a simmer. Remove from heat and add 6 tea bags*. Steep for about 4 minutes (or longer if you desire a stronger tea). Place in the fridge or allow to come to room temperature before making your fruit tea.

*If using loose leaf tea, use 3 tablespoons.

If you’d prefer a cold brew method, combine 8 cups cold water and 10 tea bags* in a pitcher. Cover and refrigerate 15 to 36 hours, until desired strength is reached.

*If using loose leaf tea, use 6 tablespoons.

glass pitcher filled with fruit tea garnished with orange slices

Fruit tea recipe FAQ’s

Can I use other fruit juices besides cranberry and orange?

Yes, this recipe is easuly customizable and swappable based off personal preferences and what you’ve got on hand. Pineapple juice and passion fruit juice would give this fruit tea recipe a nice blend of tropical flavors. And add dark rum for a spiked fruit tea! You can also easily swap the lemon juice for lime juice.

What are some other fun garnishes and flavors I could add to the tea?

Add cinnamon stick or two to complement the warm flavors of cranberry and orange. If using a green tea base, mint leaves would also be lovely, and garnish with whatever favorite fruit you have on hand.

What type of tea should I use as the base?

If using store bought, black tea is the usually the most common type sold. But you have more options if brewing your own. Use green tea bags, your favorite herbal tea, or give your fruit tea even more flavor by using passion fruit tea.

Can I spike this fruit tea?

Adding in gin, rum or vodka would be a fun way to turn this into an adults only beverage. Refreshing, light and perfect for Summer parties. I would suggest you start by adding ½ cup of your favorite liquor, and adjust to taste & strength preference.

I know you’ll love this refreshing fruit tea all summer long! Serve alongside my grilled barbecue chicken thighs.

tall glass filled with iced tea and ice cubes garnished with citrus slices

Tried this recipe? Please leave a comment and/or rating, letting me know how you enjoyed it! Connect with me on Instagram and Pinterest, and never miss a post by signing up for my weekly newsletter!