Not only is cold brew tea a great alternative to hot tea on a hot summer day, but it also offers a smoother and less bitter taste, making it a popular brewing method in many cultures. And, it's super easy to make and can be done with just a few simple steps.
So if you're ready to learn how to cold brew tea and discover the many advantages of this brewing method, keep reading!
In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to get started, from choosing the right tea to finding the perfect brewing time. Whether you're a tea aficionado or just looking for a new way to enjoy your favorite beverage, cold brew tea is definitely worth a try. So grab your tea leaves and let's do it!
Why Cold Brew Tea?
People trend for cold brew tea lies in its unique taste and refreshing qualities. Unlike hot brewed tea, which can sometimes have a harsh and bitter flavor, cold brew tea has a smoother and more delicate taste. This is due to the slower steeping process that it undergoes, which allows the tea to infuse more fully with the water and release its full range of flavors.
In addition to its taste, cold brew tea also has a refreshing quality that makes it a perfect beverage option for hot summer days or whenever you need a pick-me-up. It's a cool and invigorating drink that can help quench your thirst and re-energize your body and mind.
Another appeal of cold brew tea is its health benefits. Like hot tea, it contains antioxidants and polyphenols that help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases. And because it has less caffeine than hot brewed tea, it's a great option for those who want to enjoy the taste of tea without the stimulating effects of caffeine.
But perhaps the biggest appeal of cold brew tea is its convenience. It's incredibly easy to make - simply steep your tea bags or loose leaves in cold water for several hours, and you've got a delicious and refreshing drink ready to go. And because it can be made in large batches and stored in the fridge, you can enjoy it anytime without the hassle of brewing and cooling hot tea.
It's a versatile and customizable beverage option that can be enjoyed by tea lovers and casual drinkers alike.
(click the COLD BREW MAKER for more detail)
The Benefits of Drinking Cold Brew Tea
Although I am a coffee lover, I am not averse to drinking cold brew tea occasionally, especially in the summer, it really is a great alternative. Let me tell you what are the benefits, and advantages.
Lowered risk of chronic diseases: Cold brew tea, like hot tea, contains antioxidants and polyphenols that help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
Reduced caffeine intake: Cold brew tea has less caffeine than hot brewed tea, making it a great option for those who want to enjoy the taste of tea without the stimulating effects of caffeine.
Improved digestion: Drinking cold brew tea can help improve digestion and relieve digestive problems such as bloating and constipation. The antioxidants in tea can help regulate gut bacteria and reduce inflammation in the digestive system.
Better hydration: Cold brew tea is a great way to stay hydrated, especially during hot weather when water alone may not be enough to quench your thirst. Drinking cold brew tea can also help replace electrolytes lost through sweating.
Improved mental focus: The theanine in tea can improve mental focus and alertness without the jittery effects of caffeine. Drinking cold brew tea can help you stay alert and focused throughout the day.
Reduced stress and anxiety: Drinking cold brew tea can help reduce stress and anxiety levels due to its calming properties. The theanine in tea can help promote relaxation and reduce feelings of anxiety and stress.
What Type of Tea is Suitable for you?
Any type of tea can be suitable for cold brewing, including black tea, green tea, white tea, oolong tea, and herbal tea. But you need to master different cold brew ratios. Here’s a comparison table for different types of tea.
| Tea Type | Brewing Time | Leaf to Water Ratio | Flavor |
| Green Tea | 4-6 hours | 1:10-1:15 | Light, refreshing, slightly sweet, grassy |
| Black Tea | 8-12 hours | 1:15-1:20 | Full-bodied, robust, malty, sometimes with floral or fruity notes |
| White Tea | 6-8 hours | 1:12-1:15 | Light, delicate, slightly sweet, floral |
| Oolong Tea | 6-8 hours | 1:15-1:20 | Smooth, complex, with floral, fruity, and nutty notes |
| Herbal Tea | 8-12 hours | 1:10-1:15 | Fresh, aromatic, and slightly sweet, depending on the herbs used |
When brewing cold brew tea, it's important to use cold water and a container with a tight-fitting lid to prevent any unwanted flavors or odors from affecting the tea.
Does cold brew tea contain less caffeine?
In general, cold brew tea contains less caffeine than coffee, but it can vary depending on the specific types of tea and coffee being compared.
The caffeine content in tea can vary depending on the type of tea, the part of the plant used, and the brewing time and temperature. However, in general, tea contains less caffeine than coffee. For example, a typical 8-ounce cup of black tea contains around 25-48 milligrams of caffeine, while an 8-ounce cup of coffee contains around 95 milligrams of caffeine.
Cold brewing tea involves steeping tea leaves in cold water for an extended period of time, usually 8-12 hours. This method tends to extract less caffeine from the tea leaves compared to hot water brewing. As a result, cold brew tea may have even less caffeine than traditionally brewed tea.
So, while cold brew tea can contain varying amounts of caffeine depending on the specific type of tea and brewing method used, it generally contains less caffeine than coffee.
What do You need to Cold Brew Tea?
To make your favorite cold brew tea, you will need to prepare these items:
Tea leaves: Choose your favorite loose-leaf tea or tea bags. Some popular choices for cold brew tea include black tea, green tea, oolong tea, herbal tea, and fruit tea. Use around 1-2 tablespoons of loose-leaf tea or 2-4 tea bags for every 4 cups of water.
Water: Use cold, filtered water to make your cold brew tea. The ratio of tea to water can be adjusted based on your personal preference.
Container: You will need a large container or pitcher to steep the tea in. Make sure the container is big enough to hold the water and tea leaves.
Strainer: After steeping the tea, you will need a strainer to remove the tea leaves or tea bags from the liquid. You also can use your cold brew coffee maker. That is very convenient.
Optional add-ins: You can add other ingredients to your cold brew tea to enhance the flavor, such as sliced fruit, herbs, or spices.
Refrigerator: Cold brew tea needs to be stored in the refrigerator while steeping to prevent bacterial growth.
How to Cold Brew Tea?
Like the same as cold brew coffee, let me share the common guide on how to make cold brew tea for you.
Ingredients:
- Tea leaves or tea bags
- Cold, filtered water
- Large container or pitcher ( you can use your cold brew coffee maker that it will be easier)
- Strainer ( if you had a cold brew maker, you will not need this)
- Optional add-ins (such as fruit, herbs, or spices)
Instructions:
- Measure out the desired amount of tea leaves or tea bags based on how much cold brew tea you want to make. A good rule of thumb is to use 1-2 tablespoons of loose-leaf tea or 2-4 tea bags for every 4 cups of water.
- Place the tea leaves or tea bags in a large container or pitcher. Add cold, filtered water to the container. The ratio of tea to water can be adjusted based on your personal preference.
- Optional: Add any desired add-ins, such as sliced fruit, herbs, or spices.
- Stir the mixture gently to make sure the tea leaves or tea bags are fully saturated with water.
- Cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the tea to steep for at least 8-12 hours, or overnight.
- Once the tea has finished steeping, remove the container from the refrigerator and strain out the tea leaves or tea bags using a strainer.
- Optional: Add ice cubes or more cold water to dilute the tea to your desired strength.
- Pour the cold brew tea into glasses and serve.
- Store any remaining cold brew tea in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Enjoy your refreshing and delicious cold brew tea!
How do You Sweeten Cold Tea?
Can we add something to the cold tea? Of course, we do. There are several ways to sweeten cold tea, you might try it.
- Simple syrup: Make a simple syrup by combining equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan and heating until the sugar dissolves. Let the syrup cool before adding it to your tea.
- Honey: Add a spoonful of honey to your cold tea and stir until it dissolves. Honey is a natural sweetener that can add depth of flavor to your tea.
- Stevia: Stevia is a natural, calorie-free sweetener that is often used to sweeten tea. You can find stevia in liquid or powder form at most health food stores.
- Fruit juice: Add a splash of fruit juice, such as orange or cranberry, to your tea for a sweet and tangy flavor.
- Flavored syrups: You can also use flavored syrups, such as vanilla or caramel, to sweeten your tea. Just be aware that these syrups often contain added sugars, so use them in moderation.
It can’t tell which is the best way. If you like it, then it’s the best way. Experiment with them and find the one you like the best.
