Orange Rosemary Iced Tea

Orange Rosemary Iced Tea is a refreshing twist on classic iced tea, combining bold black tea with the brightness of fresh orange juice, the warmth of ginger, and the earthy aroma of rosemary. This revitalizing drink is perfect for warm days when you want something cooling, citrusy, and herbal all at once.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique flavor blend: The citrusy sweetness of orange pairs beautifully with herbal rosemary and zesty ginger.

• Cooling and hydrating: A refreshing alternative to soda or sweetened drinks.

• Simple ingredients: Uses pantry and fresh staples you may already have at home.

• Customizable sweetness: Adjust the sugar to your taste, or swap for honey or agave.

• Perfect for gatherings: A sophisticated iced tea to serve at brunch, parties, or summer picnics.

• Make-ahead friendly: Can be brewed and chilled hours in advance.

• Rich in antioxidants: Black tea, citrus, and ginger add a wellness boost.

• Versatile garnish options: Dress it up with orange slices or rosemary sprigs.

• Great for tea lovers: A creative way to enjoy black tea in a new flavor profile.

• Naturally dairy-free and vegan.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Water

• Black tea bags

• Fresh orange (juice and zest)

• Fresh rosemary sprigs, thinly sliced

• Fresh ginger, sliced

• Sugar (adjust to taste)

• Ice cubes

• Orange slices and rosemary sprigs, for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium pot.

2. Remove from heat and add black tea bags, rosemary, orange zest, and sliced ginger.

3. Let steep for 5–7 minutes, then remove the tea bags.

4. Stir in sugar while the tea is warm, then set aside to cool slightly.

5. Strain out the rosemary, zest, and ginger.

6. Stir in freshly squeezed orange juice.

7. Allow the tea to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until fully chilled.

8. Serve over ice in glasses. Garnish with orange slices and rosemary sprigs, if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Steep Time: 7 minutes
Chill Time: 8–10 minutes (plus refrigeration)
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Sweetener swap: Use honey, maple syrup, or agave instead of sugar.

• Caffeine-free: Replace black tea with rooibos or herbal tea.

• Sparkling version: Mix with sparkling water just before serving.

• Citrus twist: Add lemon or lime juice along with orange.

• Berry boost: Add fresh raspberries or blueberries while steeping.

• Stronger rosemary flavor: Steep the rosemary longer before straining.

• Iced tea concentrate: Brew stronger, then dilute with cold water or sparkling water.

• Ginger-forward: Add extra ginger slices for more spice.

• Cocktail-style: Mix with vodka or gin for an herbal summer drink.

• Frozen treat: Freeze into ice pops for a citrusy iced tea popsicle.

Storage/Reheating

• Fridge: Store in a covered pitcher in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Not ideal, but you can freeze into ice cubes to add to future drinks.

• Reheating: Not recommended; this recipe is best served chilled.

FAQs

Can I use green tea instead of black tea?

Yes, green tea works well but will create a lighter flavor.

Do I need to peel the ginger before slicing?

No, just rinse it well. The peel adds extra earthy notes.

Can I make this without sugar?

Yes, skip it or use a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit.

How do I keep the tea from getting bitter?

Steep for no longer than 7 minutes and avoid over-brewing the black tea.

Can I prepare this a day ahead?

Absolutely. In fact, the flavors develop even more after a few hours in the fridge.

How strong should the rosemary flavor be?

That depends on preference—use fewer sprigs for subtle flavor or more for boldness.

Can I use bottled orange juice?

Freshly squeezed works best, but bottled juice can be used if unsweetened.

What type of black tea is best?

English Breakfast or Assam works well, but any strong black tea will do.

Can kids drink this?

Yes! It’s caffeine-based, so opt for a caffeine-free tea if serving to children.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this scales easily. Brew in a larger pot and chill in a big pitcher for gatherings.

Conclusion

Orange Rosemary Iced Tea is a refreshing, citrusy, and herbal drink that elevates ordinary iced tea into something special. With its blend of orange, ginger, and rosemary, it’s both flavorful and revitalizing — perfect for sipping on a hot day or serving at your next summer get-together. Make a batch, chill it well, and enjoy a glass of this fragrant iced tea with a fresh garnish.