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Passion Fruit Iced Tea

Category: Exquisite Sweet Finales

Passion fruit iced tea is a vibrant summer beverage blending the tart sweetness of passion fruit with the soothing notes of brewed tea. Start by steeping black or green tea in hot water, then mix in fresh or store-bought passion fruit pulp for a bright citrusy twist. Sweeten to taste using honey or simple syrup, and balance the flavors with a splash of lemon juice if desired. Serve well chilled over plenty of ice. This drink offers a natural tropical aroma, light caffeine, and a beautiful presentation, making it ideal for sunny afternoons or festive gatherings with friends.

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Sandra
By Sandra Sandra
Updated on Tue, 17 Jun 2025 16:50:11 GMT
A glass of orange juice with a slice of fruit in it. Pin
A glass of orange juice with a slice of fruit in it. | howtogourmet.com

This refreshing passion fruit iced tea is my favorite way to cool off on hot afternoons and impress friends at backyard barbecues. With bright tropical fruit and smooth tea flavors, it is as beautiful in the glass as it is delicious to drink. You only need a handful of simple ingredients and less than an hour to make a batch that tastes like summer vacation.

When I first served this at a family picnic my loved ones finished the entire pitcher in record time and begged for the recipe. Now it is a summer tradition everyone looks forward to.

Ingredients

  • Black tea or green tea bags: These give the base flavor Choose high-quality loose or bagged tea for a smoother taste and more antioxidants
  • Passion fruit pulp: Adds bright tartness and tropical aroma Fresh pulp brings the most vibrant flavor but store-bought works in a pinch
  • Honey or simple syrup: Brings gentle sweetness Use local honey for special depth or simple syrup for a lighter result
  • Lemon juice: Brightens and balances the drink Fresh squeezed is best for the cleanest citrus kick
  • Ice cubes: Essential for chilling and a frosty finish Try using filtered water for clearer ice
  • Water: The main liquid Make sure it is good tasting as it is the foundation of your tea

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brew the Tea:
Pour two cups of freshly boiled water over your tea bags in a heatproof container Leave them to steep for four to six minutes until richly colored Remove the bags and gently squeeze to extract all the flavors
Mix in the Passion Fruit:
If using fresh passion fruit scoop out the pulp and strain if you want a smoother texture Store-bought pulp can go straight in Stir the passion fruit gently into the steeped tea
Sweeten the Tea:
Measure and add honey or simple syrup a tablespoon at a time tasting as you go for your ideal sweetness Stir well to fully dissolve
Balance with Lemon:
Add the lemon juice starting with half a tablespoon and increasing as desired Taste after each addition to adjust the citrus brightness
Dilute and Chill:
Pour in the final cup of cold water to mellow the tea and fruit intensity Stir Then move the pitcher to the fridge and chill for at least 30 minutes so flavors can meld
Serve over Ice:
Fill glasses all the way with ice cubes and pour the chilled passion fruit iced tea over Top with an extra slice of lemon or a wedge of passion fruit for a stunning finish
A glass of orange juice with a slice of lemon in it. Pin
A glass of orange juice with a slice of lemon in it. | howtogourmet.com

My favorite ingredient in this recipe is the fresh passion fruit pulp because it adds a sunshine-bright tang that reminds me of my travels to tropical places. One summer my nephew helped scoop out the seeds and he still laughs about the sticky hands and sweet reward.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover iced tea sealed in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavor gets even better after a few hours as the tea and fruit marry. If you are making it ahead do not add ice until serving so it stays nice and strong.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap honey for agave syrup or regular sugar. If passion fruit pulp is tough to find try a mango puree for a close tropical vibe. Both black and green teas work beautifully or use a caffeine free herbal tea if you prefer.

A glass of orange juice with a few fruits on the table. Pin
A glass of orange juice with a few fruits on the table. | howtogourmet.com

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled in tall glasses with plenty of ice. For a festive touch add a sprig of mint or float a thin slice of orange with the lemon. This tea makes a fun base for a mocktail too just top with sparkling water right before serving.

Cultural Inspiration

Passion fruit iced tea pops up in tropical cafes from Thailand to Brazil and is especially popular during hot summer months. The vibrant yellow color and fragrance have always made it a celebratory drink for outdoor gatherings and lively occasions.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use green tea instead of black tea?

Yes, green tea brings a lighter, subtly grassy flavor that pairs well with passion fruit. Choose your preference for either mellow or robust notes.

→ How do I sweeten the iced tea naturally?

Honey and simple syrup both work well. Adjust sweetness to your liking, tasting as you go for the perfect balance.

→ Is it necessary to add lemon juice?

Lemon juice is optional but helps brighten the drink and balance the passion fruit’s natural tartness.

→ Can I use bottled passion fruit pulp?

Absolutely, both fresh and bottled pulp add delicious tropical flavor. Make sure there are no added sugars or flavors.

→ How long should I chill the iced tea?

Allow at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator for best results. Serve over ice for extra refreshment.

→ What garnishes go well with passion fruit iced tea?

Citrus slices, fresh mint, or a twist of lemon enhance visual appeal and flavor.

Passion Fruit Iced Tea

Cool passion fruit iced tea delivers vibrant flavor and refreshment for warm summer days and gatherings.

Preparation Time
10 min
Cooking Time
5 min
Total Time
15 min
By Sandra: Sandra

Category: Desserts

Skill Level: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 4 Servings (Approximately 4 glasses)

Dietary Preferences: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

→ For the Iced Tea

01 480 ml water for brewing tea
02 2 bags black tea or green tea, preferred variety
03 240 ml cold water to dilute
04 120 ml passion fruit pulp, fresh or store-bought
05 2–3 tablespoons honey or simple syrup, adjusted to taste
06 15 ml lemon juice, freshly squeezed (optional)
07 Ice cubes, for serving

Steps

Step 01

Bring 480 ml water to a boil in a saucepan or kettle. Add tea bags and let steep for 5 minutes to develop flavor, then discard tea bags.

Step 02

In a large pitcher, stir in the passion fruit pulp with the brewed tea until thoroughly mixed.

Step 03

Add honey or simple syrup to the pitcher, adjusting sweetness to taste. Stir in lemon juice if desired for added brightness.

Step 04

Pour in 240 ml cold water to dilute. Refrigerate the tea mixture for at least 30 minutes until well chilled.

Step 05

Fill glasses with ice cubes. Pour chilled passion fruit tea over ice and serve immediately.

Additional Notes

  1. For the best flavor, use ripe passion fruit or high-quality pulp. Adjust sweetener based on desired intensity, and consider straining the mixture for a smoother texture.

Required Equipment

  • Pitcher
  • Saucepan or kettle
  • Fine-mesh strainer
  • Spoon
  • Measuring cup set
  • Citrus juicer

Nutritional Information (per serving)

The provided details are for informational purposes and should not replace professional health advice.
  • Calories: 55
  • Fats: 0.1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 13 g
  • Proteins: 0.4 g