How to Make the Perfect Southern Sweet Tea for Summer (Charleston Style)
No trip to the Lowcountry is complete without a tall glass of sweet tea. It’s the drink that defines Southern hospitality, the kind you sip on a warm afternoon while lounging on a Charleston porch. There’s a reason it’s a tradition here—a tall glass of sweet tea feels like a hug in a glass. Whether you’re on a historic street downtown or at a Lowcountry plantation, it’s always the perfect way to cool off and slow down. Here’s my step-by-step guide for making the perfect Southern sweet tea that’ll have you feeling like you’re sipping it right here in Charleston.
Start with the Right Tea
For the best flavor, go for loose-leaf tea or family-size black tea bags. Brands like Lipton or Tetley are great for that classic, Southern taste. I always reach for Lipton, especially when I’m aiming for that familiar, smooth flavor you find in almost every Charleston home. Some folks in Charleston will even tell you that their sweet tea has “a little more bite,” and that’s often thanks to the strong tea they use.
Boil the Water
Bring a quart of water to a rolling boil. Once it’s boiling, take it off the heat, and drop in about 4-5 tea bags. You can make it stronger or weaker depending on your preference, but I always recommend letting it steep for about 5-10 minutes. Don’t be in a rush during this step—good tea needs time to brew. If you’re using loose-leaf tea, you’ll need a tea infuser or strainer.
Sweeten While Hot
This is where the magic happens! While the tea is still hot, add about 1 to 1 ½ cups of sugar (yes, you read that right—Southern sweet tea is meant to be sweet). Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved. This is what gives the tea its signature sweetness, so be generous! If you’re in the mood for something a bit different, you can add a pinch of sea salt to enhance the sweetness. And let me tell you—nothing says “Lowcountry hospitality” like serving up a batch of sweet tea that’s just right.
Dilute with Cold Water
Pour the steeped tea into a large pitcher, and then fill it the rest of the way with cold water—about 3-4 cups. This will help bring the temperature down and balance out the sweetness, creating a perfect pitcher of tea for a hot Charleston day. You’ll want your tea to be refreshing and not too heavy, and this step ensures that.
Chill and Serve
Now, pop that pitcher into the fridge and let it chill for at least an hour. I like to let mine sit for a few hours to really let the flavors come together. Serve the sweet tea over plenty of ice. And for that Charleston touch, garnish it with a thin slice of lemon and a sprig of fresh mint from your garden (or a neighbor’s, if you’re feeling adventurous). You can even tuck in a little piece of fruit—peaches are always a good call here, or for a more “Lowcountry” flair, go for a couple of slices of ripe watermelon.
Pro Tip: Add a Lowcountry Twist
For a little extra flair, try adding a splash of peach or raspberry syrup to your tea for a unique Charleston twist. You’ll often see folks here add a little fruit-infused syrup to their tea, especially in the summer when peaches are in season. It’s a simple way to make your sweet tea feel even more like a taste of the Lowcountry. You might also try adding a splash of bourbon if you’re in the mood for an evening treat!
Now that you’ve got the recipe, grab a glass, kick back on your porch swing, and enjoy a taste of Charleston. Whether you’re watching the sunset over the marsh or just chatting with neighbors, there’s nothing more comforting or quintessentially Lowcountry than a cold, sweet glass of tea. Cheers, y’all!
Photo by Julia D’Alkmin on Unsplash
