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Bellini Peach Raspberry Iced Tea is my answer to a summer afternoon when you crave something refreshing and a little fancy without turning on the stove for long. This sparkling iced tea brings together juicy peaches and tart raspberries with a touch of fizz that always steals the show at my backyard gatherings. It is sweet, vibrant, gorgeously pink, and so easy to put together whether it is for a picnic pitcher or a solo glass on the porch.
My first time making this was after picking peaches at the orchard and I could not believe how much everyone raved about the color and flavor It is the drink I bring out when I want to impress with ease and it never fails
Ingredients
- Water: Brings everything together Make sure your water tastes clean so the tea shines
- Tea bags: Black green or peach flavored all work nicely Go for a high quality variety for richer flavor
- Peaches: Ripeness brings natural sweetness Fresh summer peaches are best but frozen are great in the off season Look for fruit that smells fragrant and gives just a little when pressed
- Fresh raspberries: For a tart punch and beautiful pink hue Choose plump berries with no dents or leaks
- Honey or simple syrup: For a customizable level of sweetness Try local honey for floral undertones or simple syrup for a smooth blend
- Lemon juice: Brightens everything up Choose fresh lemons for juiciest results
- Peach nectar or peach juice: Boosts the fruity peach character Use a brand with real peach puree for best flavor
- Sparkling water or club soda: Gives that lovely fizz Choose a neutral or peachy sparkling for extra fruitiness
- Ice cubes: Keep things cool as you sip Thick cubes melt slower and prevent watering down
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish: Brings color and a cooling aroma Use crisp bright green sprigs
- Extra peach slices and raspberries for garnish: Adds festive flair and makes each glass look inviting
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brew the Tea:
- Steep your chosen tea bags in hot water following package instructions but leave them in the water for two extra minutes to deepen the tea flavor Let the tea cool to room temperature then chill completely in the fridge You will get the best results if the tea is ice cold before mixing with fruit
- Prepare the Fruit:
- Slice peaches and rinse raspberries blending together in a blender with just enough water for the blades to run Create a smooth puree If you want silky tea pour the puree through a fine mesh strainer and discard the seeds and skin If you enjoy a bit of body in your drink leave it as is
- Sweeten the Tea:
- In your largest pitcher combine the chilled tea concentrate and peach raspberry puree Stir gently so the fruit fully blends with the tea Add honey or simple syrup tasting as you go until the mixture is as sweet as you like Mix thoroughly so the sweetener is dissolved
- Add the Sparkle:
- Fill tall glasses three quarters of the way with ice cubes Pour the peach raspberry tea mixture over the ice leaving about an inch at the top of each glass Carefully top off each glass with a splash of sparkling water or club soda The fizz will lift up the fruit aroma and give a Bellini style sparkle
- Garnish and Serve:
- Add a sprig of fresh mint to each glass for an extra pop of green and aroma Drop in a peach slice and a few raspberries for a colorful presentation Serve right away for maximum fizz and freshness
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I am always amazed by the transformation raspberries offer in this recipe Their sharp pink color and tang are what get the most compliments If my kids see the mint on top they immediately claim the glass that looks prettiest Every picnic since has included this pitcher drink
Storage Tips
Once mixed the tea will stay fresh in the fridge for two to three days without the sparkling water I like to prepare the tea base and fruit puree in advance then just add fizz and ice before serving Store in a glass pitcher with a tight lid to keep the aroma bright If you have leftovers after adding sparkling water drink within one day to keep the bubbles
Ingredient Substitutions
No fresh peaches Use thawed frozen peaches or if in a pinch try mango chunks for a different but equally sunny flavor You can swap out raspberries for strawberries or even cherries for a twist If you want a zero sugar version pick a sugar substitute like stevia in place of honey or simple syrup The tea works great with any blend including decaf
Serving Suggestions
Bellini Peach Raspberry Iced Tea is perfect for brunch bridal showers or any festive occasion I often set up a DIY tea bar with little bowls of mint berries and extra fruit slices so guests can jazz up their glasses If you want to make it a party cocktail stir in a splash of peach schnapps or prosecco for an adults only punch
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A sparkling pitcher of Bellini Peach Raspberry Iced Tea is the taste of summer in every sip and honestly a reliable crowd pleaser whether you are planning a special day or just want to make any afternoon more delicious
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use frozen peaches or raspberries?
Yes, frozen fruit works well for both flavor and texture. Thaw before blending for best results.
- → What type of tea is best?
Black, green, or peach-flavored tea all complement the fruit. Choose according to your taste preference.
- → How do I adjust sweetness?
Add honey, syrup, or adjust peach nectar for more or less sweetness. Taste and tweak as needed.
- → Is sparkling water necessary?
Sparkling water gives a Bellini fizz, but the drink is delicious with still water if you prefer.
- → Can I make it ahead?
Brew the tea and blend fruit in advance, then add ice, garnish, and sparkling water just before serving.
- → How can I serve this for a crowd?
Mix a large batch in a pitcher and let guests add their own garnish and sparkling water for optimal freshness.