Name: Mango Iced Tea Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 Black Tea Bags (or 2 tsp loose leaf tea); 1 Ripe Mango (or frozen mango cubes); 4 cups Water (divided); 2 tbsp Honey; Ice

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for a refreshing drink that sings of summer, look no further than Mango Iced Tea. This thirst-quencher blends the earthy boldness of black tea with the bright, tropical sweetness of mango, all lightly sweetened and chilled over ice. It’s that rare combination of comforting yet invigorating, perfect for backyard get-togethers or simply treating yourself to something a little special on a sunny afternoon.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of ingredients, Mango Iced Tea delivers big flavor. Every component plays its part, from the sturdy backbone of black tea to the juicy burst of mango and the light floral note of honey. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some quick tips for getting the best out of each:

Black Tea Bags: Choose a robust black tea, as its depth balances the sweetness of mango. Loose leaf works just as well for more aroma!

Ripe Mango: Opt for a perfectly ripe mango for maximum juiciness and natural sweetness; frozen mango cubes are handy and convenient when fresh mango isn’t in season.
Water: Using filtered water will keep the flavors pure and the color vibrant in your Mango Iced Tea.

Honey: This brings gentle sweetness without overpowering, and you can adjust the amount to your taste.
Ice: Ice is essential for serving; large cubes or spheres melt slower and keep the tea chilled without too much dilution.

How to Make Mango Iced Tea

Step 1: Steep the Black Tea

Start by boiling 2 cups of water and pouring it into a large, heatproof pitcher with your black tea bags. Let it steep for about 10 minutes to ensure you extract all those bold, comforting tea flavors. Longer steeping brings out a touch of pleasant bitterness that stands up beautifully to the mango’s sweetness.

Step 2: Make the Mango Puree

While your tea is steeping, dice your ripe mango (or use frozen cubes) and add it to a saucepan with another 2 cups of water. Bring it all to a boil, then lower the heat and let it gently simmer for around 10 minutes. As it softens, mash the mango into a fragrant, sunny-hued puree. The aroma at this stage is irresistible—it’s like bottling a summer day!

Step 3: Combine and Sweeten

Now, strain the luscious mango mixture directly into your pitcher of tea, making sure to discard any pulp and fibers. Add in your honey while the liquid is still warm so it dissolves easily. Stir everything together and marvel as the color shifts to that gorgeous golden shade unique to homemade Mango Iced Tea.

Step 4: Cool and Serve with Ice

Allow the tea to cool off to room temperature, then transfer the pitcher to the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Serve in tall glasses piled with ice and, for the ultimate finishing touch, toss in a few extra slices of fresh mango. This step gives the tea time to meld, and the flavor only gets better as it chills.

How to Serve Mango Iced Tea

Garnishes

Take your Mango Iced Tea to the next level with creative garnishes! Fresh mango slices, a handful of mint leaves, or a wedge of lime not only look beautiful but enhance the tropical vibes. For added flair, try threading mango chunks and berries onto a cocktail stick for a playful touch.

Side Dishes

This tea goes splendidly with light, summery foods. Serve it alongside a crisp salad, tangy grilled shrimp, or fluffy tea sandwiches. Even savory snacks like samosas or veggie spring rolls are uplifted by the sweet-cool backdrop of Mango Iced Tea.

Creative Ways to Present

Pour Mango Iced Tea into mason jars for a rustic picnic presentation, or serve in elegant stemmed glasses with a colorful straw for festive occasions. For parties, arrange a DIY tea bar where guests can mix in their own fresh fruit, herbs, or even a splash of sparkling water.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Mango Iced Tea (though it tends to disappear quickly!), store it in the fridge in a sealed glass pitcher or jar. It will stay bright and flavorful for up to 3 days—just be sure to give it a good stir before serving, as the fruit may settle.

Freezing

Pour leftovers into ice cube trays or popsicle molds for a refreshing treat that’s ready whenever you are. Mango Iced Tea cubes are perfect for cooling your next glass without diluting the flavor, or enjoy them on their own as an icy snack.

Reheating

While Mango Iced Tea is best served cold, if you want to warm it up (for a cozy twist!), gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat. The flavors change slightly, becoming mellow and soothing—delightful on a breezy evening or rainy day.

FAQs

Can I make Mango Iced Tea with green tea instead?

Absolutely! Green tea gives a lighter, more floral base that pairs beautifully with mango. Just steep for less time (about 3-4 minutes) to prevent bitterness—the vibrant fruit will still shine through.

Is it possible to use mango nectar instead of fresh mango?

Yes! If you’re short on time, high-quality mango nectar works in a pinch, though fresh or frozen mango will always deliver a more natural, juicy flavor. Adjust the sweetness, as nectar is sometimes already sweetened.

What can I use to sweeten Mango Iced Tea if I don’t have honey?

Try agave syrup, simple syrup, or even maple syrup for a unique twist. You can also go totally sugar-free and let the ripe mango’s natural sweetness do the talking.

How can I intensify the mango flavor?

If you crave an even bolder mango presence, add more mango to the puree or toss in a few chunks to steep along with the tea. A splash of mango juice at serving time is another easy way to amp up the tropical kick.

Can I make Mango Iced Tea in advance for a party?

Yes! In fact, making Mango Iced Tea a few hours ahead gives the flavors plenty of time to blend. Just keep it chilled and add ice and garnishes right before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.

Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably joyful about sipping on homemade Mango Iced Tea—it’s sunshine in a glass! Whether you’re sharing it with friends or treating yourself, this recipe promises refreshment that goes beyond the ordinary. Give it a try, and let every sip transport you to tropical bliss.

Mango Iced Tea Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 30 reviews

Author: Lila
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A refreshing and tropical twist on classic iced tea, this Mango Iced Tea is sweet, fruity, and perfect for hot summer days. Made with black tea, fresh ripe mango, honey, and served over ice, it’s a delightful and easy-to-make beverage.

Ingredients

Scale

Black Tea Base:

2 Black Tea Bags (or 2 tsp loose leaf tea)

Mango Puree:

1 Ripe Mango (or frozen mango cubes)
4 cups Water (divided)
2 tbsp Honey

Serving:

Instructions

Prepare Black Tea Base: Add 2 cups of boiled water and the tea bags into a large pitcher and steep for about 10 minutes.
Make Mango Puree: Heat 2 cups of water and diced mango in a saucepan, bring to a boil, then simmer for about 10 minutes while mashing the mango into a puree.

Combine and Serve: Strain the mango puree into the pitcher with the tea, add honey, and stir well. Let the tea cool, then serve over ice with mango slices.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes