How to Cold Brew Tea: A Refreshing Drink for Warmer Days

As the days get warmer, few things hit the spot like a cool, refreshing drink and cold brew tea has quickly become a favorite. With its smooth flavor, lower acidity, and ease of preparation, it’s a relaxing alternative to traditional iced tea or coffee. Whether you’re using cold brew tea bags, loose leaf tea, or a cold brew tea maker, this method is both effortless and delicious.

In this post, we’ll walk you through how to cold brew tea, share the best teas to use, offer expert tips, and answer common questions like “does cold brew tea have more caffeine?’ and “how long does cold brew tea last?’

What Is Cold Brew Tea?

Cold brew tea is made by steeping tea in cold or room-temperature water over several hours, usually in the fridge. Unlike traditional brewing with hot water, this method produces a smoother, less bitter flavor. It’s an ideal way to hydrate without added sugars or calories.

Cold brew tea benefits include:

• Naturally sweet, smooth flavor
  
• Less bitterness and astringency
  
• Often lower caffeine content
  
• Easy to make in large batches
  
• No need to boil water
  

Best Teas for Cold Brewing

Not all teas can cold brew equally well, but many types shine with this method. Here are a few favorites:

• Green Tea – Delicate, refreshing, slightly grassy
  
• White Tea – Subtle, floral, naturally sweet
  
• Herbal Tea – Caffeine-free options like hibiscus, mint, or chamomile
  
• Black Tea – Bold and classic, great with citrus or fruit
  
• Flavored Blends – Great for experimenting with fruity or spicy combinations
  

If you’re using cold brew tea bags, check the packaging. They’re often specially designed for this method.

How to Cold Brew Tea: Step-by-Step Recipe

Wondering “can you cold brew tea at home?” Absolutely! Here’s an easy and customizable cold brew tea recipe to get you started:

You’ll Need:

• Your favorite tea (cold brew tea loose leaf or tea bags)
  
• Cold, filtered water
  
• A cold brew tea container or pitcher with a lid
  

Step-by-Step Instructions:

• Choose Your Tea: Use 1 tea bag or 1 teaspoon of loose leaf tea per 8 oz of water. This is your basic cold brew tea ratio, though you can adjust to taste.
  
• Add Water: Place the tea into your cold brew tea pitcher or container, then add the cold water. Stir gently.
  
• Steep in the Fridge: Cover and place in the refrigerator. The ideal cold brew tea time is 6–12 hours depending on tea type and strength preference.
  
  (Tip: Wondering “how long to cold brew tea in the fridge?’ Green and white teas may only need 6 hours, while black or herbal teas can go up to 12.)
  
• Strain and Serve: Remove tea bags or strain loose leaf tea. Serve over ice with lemon, mint, or fresh fruit if desired.
  
• Store Properly: Use a clean glass cold brew tea container. It stays fresh for 3–5 days in the fridge.
  

Tips for the Best Cold Brew Tea

• Use filtered water to prevent unwanted flavors.
  
• For stronger tea, increase steep time or tea quantity, not temperature.
  
• Avoid sweetening until after brewing to preserve clarity.
  
• A cold brew tea maker with a built-in strainer makes cleanup a breeze.
  
• Store your cold brew in glass to avoid absorbing fridge odors.
  

Cold Brew Tea vs. Iced Tea

Traditional iced tea is brewed hot, then cooled down, often resulting in a sharper taste and sometimes bitterness. Cold brew tea steeps slowly and gently, resulting in:

• Smoother flavor
  
• Less acidity
  
• Reduced caffeine
  
• Easier digestion
  

If you’re looking for a light, easy-sipping drink throughout the day, cold brew is your best friend.

Creative Flavor Combinations

Cold brew tea is wonderfully versatile. Try these fun ideas:

• Citrus Green Tea – Add lemon and orange slices with mint
  
• Berry Hibiscus – Steep hibiscus and rose hips with fresh berries
  
• Lavender Earl Grey – Steep dried culinary lavender buds with your tea. Add a few drops of vanilla extract
  
• Chai Cold Brew – Steep chai and serve with oat milk
  

You can also make tea concentrates and mix with sparkling water for a tea spritzer!

FAQs

Does cold brew tea have more caffeine?

Not usually. Cold water extracts less caffeine than hot water. However, caffeine content still depends on the tea used and steep time.

Can you cold brew tea bags?

Yes! Many brands offer cold brew tea bags designed specifically for this. Just follow the same ratio and steeping method.

How long to cold brew tea in fridge?

Typically 6–12 hours. Light teas like green or white: 6–8 hours. Bolder teas like black or herbal: 8–12 hours.

How long does cold brew tea last?

Stored in a sealed container in the fridge, it stays fresh for up to 5 days.

Final Thoughts

Cold brewing tea is an easy, delicious way to stay hydrated and enjoy your favorite blends in a new way. With endless combinations and the freedom to customize to your taste, it’s a must-try this season. Whether you’re using a cold brew tea pitcher, experimenting with cold brew tea loose leaf, or keeping it simple with cold brew tea bags, the process is simple—and the results are delicious.

Whether you’re exploring cold brew tea for the first time or making it part of your daily routine, the right tools can make all the difference. The ceylon infuser loose leaf tea pot from Kitchables makes steeping loose leaf tea effortless, with a built-in infuser that ensures a smooth, mess-free brew every time. And when it’s time to enjoy your chilled creation, our double-walled glass coffee mugs keep your tea cooler for longer while adding a modern touch to your table. With Kitchables, you can brew, serve, and sip with style and simplicity all summer long.