This Iced Strawberry Jasmine Tea Latte is a refreshing and flavorful drink that combines floral jasmine tea with a honey-sweetened strawberry syrup. The result is a lightly sweet, creamy, and aromatic beverage perfect for warm days or as a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
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For the Strawberry Syrup:
- 1 lb California strawberries, hulled and chopped
- Juice of ½ a lemon
- 2 tbsp water
- 2 tbsp honey
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For the Lattes:
- 2 cups hot water (about 170°-180°F)
- 3 tbsp jasmine tea pearls (loose-leaf jasmine tea) or 4-5 jasmine tea bags
- 4 cups crushed ice
- ¾ cup cold milk
Directions
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Make the Strawberry Syrup:
- In a medium pot over medium heat, combine the chopped strawberries, lemon juice, water, and honey.
- Stir continuously and cook until the strawberries break down into a thick syrup (about 6-8 minutes).
- Transfer to a blender and pulse until smooth. Chill in the fridge until completely cool.
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Brew the Jasmine Tea:
- Pour hot water over the jasmine tea pearls, loose-leaf tea, or tea bags.
- Let steep for 3-4 minutes, then strain out the tea leaves.
- Chill the tea in the fridge until completely cool.
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Assemble the Lattes:
- Spoon 3 tablespoons of strawberry syrup into the bottom of each glass.
- Add one cup of crushed ice to each glass.
- Divide the cooled jasmine tea among the four glasses.
- Top each glass with a few tablespoons of milk.
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Serve Immediately:
- Stir gently and enjoy with a straw!
Nutrients (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~90 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 1g
- Sugar: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 20mg
Why You’ll Love This Iced Strawberry Jasmine Tea Latte
There are so many reasons to enjoy this delightful drink:
- Naturally Sweetened: Made with honey and strawberries, this drink avoids artificial sweeteners while still offering a pleasant sweetness.
- Refreshing and Light: The floral jasmine tea and fruity strawberry syrup create a crisp, revitalizing beverage.
- Caffeine Boost: Jasmine tea contains just the right amount of caffeine to provide an energy boost without the jitters of coffee.
- Customizable: You can adjust the sweetness, dairy preference, and ice levels to suit your taste.
- Visually Stunning: The layered effect of the strawberry syrup, tea, and milk makes this drink as beautiful as it is delicious.
The Health Benefits of Jasmine Tea and Strawberries
This drink is not only delicious but also offers several health benefits:
- Rich in Antioxidants: Jasmine tea is loaded with antioxidants that help fight free radicals and promote overall well-being.
- Boosts Heart Health: Studies suggest that jasmine tea may help lower cholesterol and improve cardiovascular health.
- Supports Digestion: The polyphenols in jasmine tea can aid digestion and support gut health.
- Vitamin C from Strawberries: Strawberries provide an excellent source of vitamin C, which boosts immunity and promotes healthy skin.
- Natural Hydration: Since this drink is primarily water-based, it keeps you hydrated while delivering great flavor.
Customizing Your Iced Strawberry Jasmine Tea Latte
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some ways to customize it to your preferences:
- Milk Options: Use dairy milk for a creamy texture or opt for almond, oat, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Sweetener Alternatives: Swap honey for agave syrup, maple syrup, or a sugar-free alternative.
- Tea Choices: If jasmine tea isn’t your favorite, try using green tea or white tea as a floral, light alternative.
- Extra Fruit Flavor: Blend a few extra strawberries into the syrup for an even richer fruity taste.
- Iced Blended Version: Blend the ingredients with ice to create a smoothie-like iced tea latte.
Tips for Making the Best Iced Strawberry Jasmine Tea Latte
To ensure your drink turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries provide the best natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Let the Syrup Cool Completely: Chilling the strawberry syrup before assembling the drink helps maintain the iced texture and prevents dilution.
- Brew the Tea at the Right Temperature: Jasmine tea should be brewed at about 170°F-180°F to avoid bitterness.
- Layer for a Beautiful Effect: To achieve a café-style presentation, pour the tea slowly over the ice and strawberry syrup before adding milk.
- Serve Immediately: This drink is best enjoyed fresh to preserve its vibrant flavors and textures.
How to Store and Make Ahead
If you want to prep ingredients ahead of time, follow these storage tips:
- Strawberry Syrup: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Brewed Jasmine Tea: Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days to have it ready for quick assembly.
- Pre-Made Lattes: While best enjoyed fresh, you can store an assembled latte (without ice) in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours. Add ice before serving.
Making This Drink Kid-Friendly
This Iced Strawberry Jasmine Tea Latte can easily be adapted for kids or those avoiding caffeine:
- Use Caffeine-Free Tea: Replace jasmine tea with caffeine-free herbal tea, such as chamomile or hibiscus.
- Reduce Sweetness: Omit or reduce the amount of honey if serving to young children.
- Serve as a Fruit Smoothie: Blend the strawberry syrup with milk and ice for a delicious strawberry milkshake alternative.
Why This Latte is Perfect for Any Occasion
This drink is a great choice for any time of the year:
- Spring and Summer: Refreshing and fruity, this iced latte is perfect for warmer months.
- Afternoon Pick-Me-Up: The gentle caffeine boost makes it a great alternative to coffee in the afternoon.
- Brunch or Tea Parties: Serve this visually stunning drink at a gathering for an elegant, Instagram-worthy refreshment.
- A Relaxing Treat: Enjoy a homemade café-style drink at home while unwinding.
The Perfect Balance of Floral, Fruity, and Creamy
This Iced Strawberry Jasmine Tea Latte is the perfect way to elevate your tea experience. The combination of floral jasmine tea, naturally sweet strawberry syrup, and creamy milk makes every sip delightful. The balance of flavors is light yet satisfying, making it an ideal drink for tea lovers and those looking for a refreshing alternative to coffee.
The layered presentation also makes it feel like a special treat, turning an everyday drink into a beautifully crafted beverage. Whether you sip it in the morning, afternoon, or as a special addition to brunch, this drink is guaranteed to impress.
Conclusion
The Iced Strawberry Jasmine Tea Latte is a refreshing, lightly sweet, and perfectly balanced drink that offers both flavor and nutrition. Combining the floral elegance of jasmine tea with fresh strawberry syrup and creamy milk, this drink is as enjoyable to look at as it is to sip.
With its health benefits, natural ingredients, and versatility, it’s an excellent homemade alternative to store-bought beverages. Whether you prefer it dairy-free, with an extra fruity kick, or blended into a smoothie, this recipe allows for endless customization.
So the next time you’re craving a refreshing, café-quality drink, try making this Iced Strawberry Jasmine Tea Latte. It’s an easy and delightful way to enjoy a sophisticated, hydrating beverage with natural flavors that brighten any day!