How do you make peach iced tea with fresh fruit?+
The easiest way is to make a peach syrup first then mix it with freshly brewed black tea. For this recipe the fruit is gently cooked with sugar and water, then mashed and strained to create a smooth concentrated peach syrup. This gives you much more peachy flavour than simply leaving fruit slices in the tea. Fresh ripe peaches give the best flavour especially when they are soft juicy and fragrant.
Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh ones?+
Yes frozen peaches work very well when fresh ones are not available. Thaw them first and drain away any excess liquid before making the syrup. Fresh fruit will usually give you a brighter more fragrant peachy flavour but frozen peaches are a very convenient option and can actually be more consistent when they are out of season.
What kind of tea is best for peach iced tea?+
English Breakfast is a great choice for this recipe because it has enough flavour to stand up to the peach without overpowering it. Other black teas such as Assam or Ceylon work well too. If you prefer something lighter then green tea can also be used while Earl Grey gives the drink a more noticeable citrus and floral flavour. For a pitcher that everyone will enjoy I would stick with English Breakfast. We've tried different types and this is what we recommend based on our experience.
How do you keep peach iced tea from getting bitter?+
The main thing is not to over steep the tea. Leaving black tea bags in hot water for too long pulls out more tannins which can make the tea harsh bitter and drying. For this recipe, steep the English Breakfast tea for 4 minutes and remove the bags without squeezing them. If you want a stronger tea flavour then just use more tea rather than steeping it for longer. Cooling it promptly also helps keep the finished drink smooth and refreshing.
Can I make peach iced tea ahead of time?+
Absolutely and it's actually a great drink to make ahead for a party or family gathering. You can prepare the peach syrup and tea earlier in the day and keep both chilled. For the freshest flavour and easiest control over sweetness, keep them separate until you are ready to make the pitcher. If you do combine them ahead of time, give the pitcher a good stir before serving and taste it again after chilling as cold temperatures can change how sweet and sharp the drink tastes. We find that by making it this way one day in advanced it results in a more fruity flavour. We highly suggest trying this method if you have the time.
How long does homemade peach iced tea last in the refrigerator?+
For the best quality keep the finished peach iced tea covered and refrigerated and drink it within about 3 to 4 days. Give it a good stir before serving because some natural peach flavour and fruit particles can settle at the bottom. If you are making it for a party, preparing the tea and peach syrup separately gives you a little more flexibility and keeps the flavours tasting fresher.
