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–+ servings

Southern Sweet Tea Cocktail Recipe

Southern Sweet Tea Cocktail Recipe
This drink is a mix of classic Southern sweet tea and a splash of something stronger. It’s a breeze to put together—no need to be a pro bartender.
John
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Serving Size 1

Equipment

  • Tall cocktail glass or mason jar
  • Cocktail shaker
  • Jigger or measuring cup
  • Long bar spoon
  • Ice bucket
  • Strainer
  • Cutting Board
  • Sharp knife

Ingredients

For the Sweet Tea Base:

  • 2 cups water
  • 2 black tea bags
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1 lemon sliced

For the Cocktail:

  • 2 oz bourbon or vodka
  • 4 oz prepared sweet tea
  • 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
  • Fresh mint leaves
  • Lemon slices for garnish
  • Ice cubes

Instructions

  • Make the sweet tea: Boil the water and let the tea bags steep for about 5 minutes. Toss in the sugar while it’s still hot and stir until it’s all dissolved.
  • Let the tea cool all the way down.
  • Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add your bourbon or vodka, 4 oz of cooled sweet tea, and a splash of fresh lemon juice.
  • Shake it up for around 15 seconds, or until the shaker feels good and cold on the outside.
  • Grab your glass and fill it with fresh ice. Strain the cocktail into it.
  • Garnish with a lemon slice and a few mint leaves. Smack the mint between your hands first—it’s weird, but it wakes up the aroma.

Notes

If you’re making these for a crowd, just multiply everything and mix it up in a big pitcher. Hold off on the ice and garnishes until right before serving, or you’ll end up with a watered-down mess.
Try swapping in peach or raspberry tea for a twist. Some folks even splash in peach schnapps for a Georgia spin—why not?
Leftover sweet tea base keeps in the fridge for up to three days. Oddly enough, the flavor gets better after a day or so.
Craving a little heat? Muddle some fresh ginger in the shaker before the rest goes in. It adds a nice warmth that plays off the sweetness.