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Refreshing Spiked Peach Sweet Tea Recipe Southern Style Pitcher Perfect for Summer

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A refreshing Southern-style spiked peach sweet tea pitcher perfect for summer gatherings, combining bold black tea, homemade peach syrup, and a splash of bourbon or vodka for a gentle buzz.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 68 black tea bags
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large fresh ripe peaches, sliced thin
  • 6 cups (1.4 liters) water
  • Ice cubes
  • 1 cup (240 ml) bourbon or vodka
  • Lemon slices (optional)
  • Mint leaves (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the Peach Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup (240 ml) water, 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar, and the sliced peaches. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
  2. Once boiling, reduce heat and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes until the peaches soften and the liquid thickens slightly.
  3. Remove from heat and let the syrup cool to room temperature. For a clearer tea, strain out the peach slices with a fine mesh strainer; otherwise, leave them in for natural infusion.
  4. Brew the Tea: While the syrup simmers, bring 6 cups (1.4 liters) of water to a boil. Pour over 6-8 black tea bags in a heatproof pitcher. Let steep for 7-8 minutes for a strong brew, then remove the bags.
  5. Stir the cooled peach syrup into the brewed tea until fully combined. Add 1-2 cups of ice cubes to chill the mixture quickly.
  6. Add the Spirit: Pour in 1 cup (240 ml) of bourbon or vodka, stirring gently to mix. Taste and adjust spirit level if desired.
  7. Garnish the pitcher with lemon slices, a few fresh peach slices, and mint leaves if using. Let it rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  8. Serve: Pour over ice-filled glasses, ensuring each gets a slice of peach or lemon.

Notes

Avoid over-steeping the tea to prevent bitterness. Use ripe peaches for best flavor. Simmer syrup gently to avoid caramelizing sugar. Chill tea before adding alcohol to keep flavors balanced. Adjust sweetness after chilling as cold changes sugar perception. For a non-alcoholic version, omit bourbon/vodka and add extra peach syrup or peach nectar.

Nutrition

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