By Akshara
June 12, 2026
Litchi iced tea bridges the gap between robust, earthy black tea and the delicate, floral sweetness of fresh summer litchis. This elegant afternoon beverage avoids artificial syrups by using real litchi juice or crushed fruit pulp, balanced beautifully with a clean splash of citrus. Served over a generous mound of crushed ice, it offers an exceptionally clean, sweet, and cooling palate cleanser that handles the peak of summer heat with effortless grace.
2 black tea bags or 2 tsp loose leaf Assam tea  2 cups water  1 cup fresh litchi juice or peeled, deseeded, and muddled litchis  1 tbsp fresh lemon juice  1-2 tsp honey or simple syrup (optional, depending on fruit sweetness)  Ice cubes, fresh mint leaves, and sliced litchis for garnish
Bring the 2 cups of water to a rolling boil in a small saucepan, add the black tea bags or loose leaves, and steep for exactly 3 to 4 minutes before straining and letting the brew cool completely.
Pour the cooled black tea into a large glass pitcher, then stir in the fresh litchi juice and lemon juice until completely integrated.
Taste the mixture and stir in a touch of honey or simple syrup if you prefer a sweeter profile, though the natural litchi sugars are often sufficient.
Fill tall serving glasses generously with ice cubes, pour the fragrant iced tea over the top, and garnish with fresh mint leaves and whole litchi slices before serving chilled.