Looking for a fruity, flavorful iced tea that instantly transports you to a beach in Hawaii? Hawaiian iced tea is your answer. With a tropical medley of pineapple, orange, lemon, and classic black tea, this drink is vibrant, refreshing, and ideal for cooling off on a sunny day.
Let’s dive into this simple recipe that packs a flavorful punch and is sure to become a favorite for parties, barbecues, or daily hydration.
What Is Hawaiian Iced Tea?
Hawaiian iced tea is a fruit-infused variation of traditional iced tea. It typically blends brewed black tea with tropical juices like pineapple, orange, and lemon, sometimes sweetened with honey or simple syrup. It’s caffeine-boosted, naturally sweet, and full of citrusy flavor with a pineapple twist.
Ingredients
- 6 black tea bags
- 4 cups water (for boiling)
- 1 cup pineapple juice (100% juice, not concentrate)
- 1/2 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (fresh for best flavor)
- 1/3 to 1/2 cup sugar or honey (adjust to taste)
- 2 cups cold water (or coconut water for a twist)
- Ice cubes
- Orange/pineapple slices and mint for garnish (optional)
Instructions : How to Make Hawaiian Iced Tea Recipe
Step 1: Brew the Tea
In a medium pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the tea bags and steep for 5–7 minutes depending on how strong you want the tea base. Remove bags and let cool slightly.
Step 2: Add Sweetener
While tea is still warm, stir in sugar or honey until fully dissolved. Adjust sweetness to your preference.
Step 3: Add Fruit Juices
Once cooled, mix in pineapple juice, orange juice, and lemon juice. Stir thoroughly.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Pour in the remaining 2 cups of cold water or coconut water. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Serve over ice with a slice of orange or a sprig of mint for that Instagram-ready tropical vibe.
Optional Add-Ins
- A splash of coconut milk for a creamy version
- A few basil leaves for a herbal twist
- Sparkling water instead of still water for fizz
- White rum or coconut rum for a boozy beach cocktail
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super refreshing and naturally energizing
- Easy to make in big batches for parties
- Perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and tea bitterness
- Tropical vacation feel in every sip
- Customizable for sweetness and strength
Nutrition (Per 8 oz Serving Approx.)
- Calories: 60
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Sugars: 12g
- Caffeine: 25–40 mg (from black tea)
How to Store Hawaiian Iced Tea
- Fridge: Store in an airtight pitcher or jar for up to 4–5 days
- Freezer Cubes: Freeze into ice cubes for flavor-packed chilling
- Avoid Lemon Rind: Don’t store lemon slices long-term in tea as they may turn bitter
Serving Ideas
- Pair with grilled pineapple skewers or Hawaiian BBQ
- Serve as a non-alcoholic mocktail with cocktail umbrellas
- Use as a mixer for vodka or rum-based drinks
- Add a splash of ginger ale for a fizzy punch
- Great for summer brunches, beach parties, or Sunday chill sessions
FAQs
Yes! Green tea makes it lighter and slightly more floral. Adjust steeping time to 2–3 minutes.
Use a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit for a low-carb option.
It’s medium to strong, depending on how long you steep. Add more water or juice to dilute.
Pineapple + orange + lemon is classic, but you can add mango or guava for variety.
Variations to Try
1. Mango Hawaiian Iced Tea
Add 1/2 cup mango juice instead of orange for a tropical twist.
2. Sparkling Pineapple Tea Punch
Swap cold water with club soda and serve in champagne glasses.
3. Coconut Hawaiian Iced Tea
Use chilled coconut water and garnish with shredded coconut.
4. Iced Tea Popsicles
Pour into molds and freeze for a fruity iced tea treat for kids and adults alike.
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian iced tea is your perfect go-to drink when you need to beat the heat or impress your guests. With a beautiful mix of flavors, it’s refreshing, hydrating, and versatile. Once you try it, you’ll ditch the bottled stuff forever. This drink brings the islands to your kitchen—one glass at a time.
