Cherry Blossom Iced Tea: How to Make It

Margaret Ellison 0 Comments
Servings: 8 Total Time: 2 hrs 25 mins Difficulty: Beginner
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A Sweet-Tart Cherry Blossom Iced Tea Delight
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Introduction

On a warm summer day, nothing feels better than a chilled, flavorful drink that cools you down and delights your taste buds. Cherry blossom iced tea is that perfect sip—a vibrant blend of sweet-tart black cherries, earthy green tea, and warm notes of star anise and vanilla bean. This cherry blossom iced tea is a standout for picnics, barbecues, or a relaxing moment on your porch. It’s not just delicious; it’s a healthier choice, packed with antioxidants from green tea and cherries, making it a great alternative to sugary sodas or processed drinks. As a culinary enthusiast, I love how this homemade tea comes together with simple ingredients, transforming them into a drink that feels special yet effortless.

I first discovered a version of this fruit-infused tea at a local café and couldn’t resist recreating it at home. The black cherries add a juicy pop of flavor, while the green tea keeps it light and invigorating. Star anise and vanilla bring a unique warmth that makes every sip memorable. Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself, this cherry blossom tea is easy to make and endlessly customizable. In this guide, you’ll learn the step-by-step process, uncover the health benefits, and find tips to make it your own. From its antioxidant boost to its crowd-pleasing taste, this chilled beverage is set to become your go-to summer drink. Let’s dive into why cherry blossom iced tea is a must-try and how you can whip it up in no time!

Key Benefits

Cherry blossom iced tea is more than a refreshing summer beverage—it’s packed with perks that make it a smart choice. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your recipe lineup:

  • Antioxidant-Rich: Green tea is loaded with catechins, powerful antioxidants that fight inflammation and support heart health. Black cherries add anthocyanins, which may reduce muscle soreness and boost immunity.
  • Hydration Made Delicious: This chilled drink keeps you hydrated on hot days, with a sweet-tart cherry flavor that makes drinking water fun.
  • Low-Calorie Treat: At just 120 calories per serving, it’s a lighter option compared to sugary sodas or energy drinks, perfect for guilt-free sipping.
  • Gentle Energy Lift: With 20–30 mg of caffeine from green tea, you get a mild boost without the jitters of coffee, ideal for a midday pick-me-up.
  • Diet-Friendly: This recipe is vegan, gluten-free, and low-fat, so it fits a variety of dietary needs, making it great for diverse gatherings.
  • Customizable and Fun: Adjust the sugar, add garnishes like mint, or mix with sparkling water for a fizzy twist. It’s easy to tweak to your taste.
  • Mood Booster: The bright cherry flavor and refreshing chill make every sip a mood-lifter, perfect for summer vibes or a cozy evening.

Whether you’re after a healthy iced tea or a flavorful drink to share, cherry blossom iced tea delivers benefits and taste in every glass.

Pro Tips and Variations

Take your cherry blossom iced tea to the next level with these expert tips and creative variations:

  • Quick Cherry Prep: Use a cherry pitter or a sturdy straw to remove pits from fresh cherries in seconds, saving time and effort.
  • Sweetness Control: Cut sugar to 3/4 cup for a lighter tea, or swap in honey or agave for a natural sweetener that adds depth.
  • Flavor Boosters: Toss in a sprig of fresh mint or a slice of ginger during steeping for a refreshing or spicy twist.
  • Caffeine-Free Option: Use decaf green tea bags to enjoy the same great taste without the caffeine, perfect for evening sipping.
  • Fizzy Fun: Mix equal parts chilled tea with sparkling water for a bubbly cherry blossom tea that’s great for parties.
  • Batch for Crowds: Double the recipe for large gatherings, but use a bigger pot to handle the extra volume without spills.
  • Frozen Treats: Pour leftover tea into ice pop molds or freeze in ice cube trays for cherry-flavored pops or non-diluting ice cubes.
  • Infusion Play: Experiment with other fruits like raspberries or peaches for a unique fruit-infused tea variation.
  • Storage Hack: Keep tea in a glass pitcher to maintain freshness, and give it a quick stir before serving to blend flavors.

These ideas make the recipe versatile, letting you adapt it for different tastes, occasions, or dietary preferences. Whether you’re hosting a summer party or enjoying a quiet evening, these tips ensure your cherry blossom iced tea is always a hit.

Serving Suggestions

Cherry blossom iced tea is a versatile drink that shines in many settings, from casual sips to festive gatherings. Here are some ways to serve it, along with perfect food pairings:

  • Picnic Vibes: Pack the tea in a chilled thermos for a refreshing drink at outdoor picnics or beach trips. Pair it with a grilled chicken sandwich, where the tea’s sweet-tart cherry flavor complements the savory, smoky chicken and crisp veggies.
  • Brunch Beauty: Serve in tall glasses with lemon slices and mint sprigs for a vibrant brunch beverage. It pairs wonderfully with slow cooker beef and potatoes, as the tea’s light, fruity notes balance the hearty, savory dish.
  • Dinner Companion: Pour over ice alongside garlic black pepper chicken for a bold pairing. The tea’s earthy green tea and warm star anise enhance the chicken’s spicy, garlicky flavors.
  • Party Punch Bowl: Create a stunning centerpiece by mixing the tea with sliced citrus, fresh cherries, and ice in a large punch bowl. This makes it a crowd-pleaser at summer gatherings.
  • Daily Refreshment: Keep a pitcher in the fridge for a go-to summer beverage, perfect for sipping while relaxing or working from home.
  • Dessert Match: Pair with light desserts like fruit tarts or vanilla cookies to echo the tea’s cherry and vanilla notes for a cohesive treat.

Garnish with fresh cherries, lemon wedges, or mint for a pop of color and flavor. This chilled beverage is perfect for warm days, casual meals, or special occasions, making every moment feel refreshing and festive.

Conclusion

Cherry blossom iced tea is more than just a drink—it’s a refreshing, healthy way to enjoy summer. With its sweet-tart cherry flavor, earthy green tea, and warm notes of star anise and vanilla, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make at home. Whether you’re cooling off after a long day or hosting friends, this fruit-infused tea delivers. Plus, it’s packed with antioxidants and fits vegan and gluten-free diets, making it a win for everyone. Try this recipe today, experiment with the variations, and make it your own. Sip the season with cherry blossom iced tea—you’ll love every refreshing drop!

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Cherry Blossom Iced Tea: How to Make It

Author: Margaret Ellison Cuisine: Courses: Recipe Keys: Gluten Free Low Carb Vegan
Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 10 mins Rest Time 2 hrs Total Time 2 hrs 25 mins
Servings: 8 Estimated Cost: $ 8 Calories: 120 kcal per serving
Best Season: Summer

Description

Cherry blossom iced tea blends black cherries, green tea, star anise, and vanilla for a refreshing, antioxidant-rich summer drink. Easy to make, perfect for picnics or relaxing at home.

Ingredients

How to Make Cherry Blossom Iced Tea

  1. Boil the Water

    In a large pot, bring 2 1/2 quarts of water to a boil over high heat. This sets the base for your tea infusion.

  1. Simmer the Flavors

    Add pitted black cherries, sugar, lemon juice, star anise, and the split and scraped vanilla bean. Lower the heat to medium and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step infuses the water with cherry flavor and aromatic spices.

  1. Steep the Tea

    Remove the pot from heat and add 16 green tea bags. Let them steep for 5 minutes to release the earthy green tea flavor. Remove the tea bags and strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to discard the cherry solids, star anise, and vanilla bean.

  1. Cool and Chill

    Allow the tea to cool to room temperature, about 20 minutes. Then, transfer it to a pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until fully chilled.

  1. Serve and Enjoy

    Pour the chilled tea over ice in glasses. Garnish with lemon slices or fresh cherries for a pretty touch, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 8

Amount Per Serving
Calories 120kcal
% Daily Value *
Sodium 5mg1%
Potassium 100mg3%
Total Carbohydrate 30g10%
Dietary Fiber 1g4%
Sugars 28g
Protein 0.5g1%
Vitamin C 8 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

  • Fresh black cherries give the best flavor, but frozen cherries are a great substitute.
  • Store the tea in an airtight pitcher in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • For a stronger green tea flavor, steep the tea bags for an extra minute.
  • Adjust sugar to taste for a less sweet version.
Keywords: Cherry blossom iced tea, summer beverage, refreshing drink, fruit-infused tea, green tea recipe
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Frequently Asked Questions

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Is cherry blossom iced tea a real thing?

Yes, cherry blossom iced tea is a delightful beverage inspired by the sweet-tart flavor of black cherries and the floral essence of cherry blossoms. While it doesn’t always contain actual cherry blossom petals, this recipe uses black cherries, green tea, star anise, and vanilla to create a refreshing drink with a similar vibe. It’s a creative twist on classic iced tea, perfect for summer sipping. The combination of fruit and spices makes it feel special, like a nod to springtime blooms, but it’s easy to whip up any time of year.

How do you make cherry blossom tea?

Making cherry blossom iced tea is simple and fun. Start by boiling 2 1/2 quarts of water in a large pot. Add 1 pound of pitted black cherries (or two 10 oz bags of thawed frozen cherries), 1 1/4 cups sugar, 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, 3 star anise, and a split and scraped half vanilla bean. Simmer for 10 minutes to blend the flavors. Remove from heat, add 16 green tea bags, and steep for 5 minutes. Strain out the solids, let the tea cool, and chill in the fridge for 2 hours. Serve over ice with a lemon slice or cherry garnish. It’s a straightforward process that yields a delicious, refreshing drink!

What does a cherry blossom taste like?

Cherry blossom iced tea has a unique flavor profile. The black cherries give it a sweet-tart taste, bright and juicy, while the green tea adds an earthy, slightly grassy note. Star anise brings a subtle licorice-like warmth, and the vanilla bean adds a creamy, aromatic depth. Lemon juice provides a zesty kick, balancing the sweetness. Together, these ingredients create a refreshing beverage that’s both vibrant and soothing, with a hint of floral-inspired charm. It’s light, flavorful, and perfect for warm days when you want something special.

Is cherry blossom tea healthy?

Yes, cherry blossom iced tea is a healthy choice when enjoyed in moderation. Green tea is loaded with antioxidants called catechins, which may reduce inflammation and support heart health. Black cherries also offer antioxidants, including anthocyanins, which can help with muscle recovery and reduce oxidative stress. The lemon juice adds a dose of vitamin C, great for immunity. However, the 1 1/4 cups of sugar adds about 28 grams of sugar per serving, so consider reducing it if you’re watching your sugar intake. Overall, this homemade tea is a better option than store-bought sugary drinks, offering hydration and nutrients.

What does cherry blossom do to the body?

Cherry blossom iced tea provides several benefits. The green tea’s antioxidants may help protect cells from damage, support heart health, and boost metabolism. Black cherries contain anti-inflammatory compounds, which can aid in muscle recovery and reduce joint pain. The mild caffeine content (20–30 mg per serving) offers a gentle energy lift without the crash of coffee. Lemon juice supports digestion and provides vitamin C for immune health. Plus, this chilled beverage keeps you hydrated, which is key during hot summer days. Just be mindful of the sugar content to keep it balanced.

Is there caffeine in cherry blossom tea?

Yes, cherry blossom iced tea contains caffeine from the green tea, about 20–30 mg per serving. This is much less than a cup of coffee (about 95 mg), making it a great choice for a mild energy boost. The caffeine can help improve focus and alertness without causing jitters. If you prefer a caffeine-free version, use decaf green tea bags instead. This way, you can enjoy the refreshing cherry flavor and health benefits without any caffeine. It’s a versatile drink for any time of day!

Margaret Ellison
Margaret Ellison Food and Lifestyle Blogger
Hi, I’m Margaret, a dedicated food blogger, passionate cook, and the proud founder of Recipes Voyage. I live with my loved ones, where I balance my time between exploring new cuisines, sharing treasured recipes, and cherishing moments with family and friends. Based in my cozy corner of the world, I’m fueled by a love for travel, culinary creativity, and bringing people together through the joy of food.

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