When the sun is high and the days are long, nothing soothes the soul quite like a tall glass of iced tea. But not just any iced tea. I’m talking about Blackberry Sage Iced Tea—a sophisticated twist on a summer classic that combines juicy berries, earthy herbs, and a splash of citrus.
This recipe comes from my fond memories of sipping on fresh herbal teas in my grandmother’s garden, where we’d pluck ingredients straight from the earth. Today, I bring you that same feeling of natural refreshment—with a modern twist.
Why You’ll Love This Blackberry Sage Iced Tea
- Naturally sweetened with maple syrup
- Infused with fresh herbs for a calming, earthy note
- Loaded with antioxidants from blackberries and sage
- No refined sugar or artificial flavorings
- Beautiful enough for entertaining, easy enough for every day
Whether you’re lounging on the patio, hosting a garden party, or just looking for a better-for-you beverage, this tea delivers flavor and style in every sip.
Ingredients
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blackberries
- 3 tbsp fresh sage leaves
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 tbsp maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- Ice cubes
- Optional: sage leaves or lemon slices for garnish
How to Make Blackberry Sage Iced Tea
Step 1: Infuse the Sage
Start by bringing the water to a gentle simmer in a medium saucepan. Turn off the heat and add the sage leaves. Let them steep for about 5 minutes. This allows the herbal oils to infuse into the water, giving your tea a lovely, earthy base.
Step 2: Add and Mash the Berries
Next, toss the blackberries into the sage water and return the mixture to a simmer. Once simmering, remove from heat and gently mash the blackberries to release their juice and vibrant color. Stir in the maple syrup and let it dissolve fully.
🍯 Tip: Adjust the maple syrup to taste depending on how sweet or tart your berries are.
Step 3: Strain and Cool
Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature. Then, strain it through a fine mesh sieve into a pitcher. Press the solids with the back of a spoon to extract every last drop of flavor. Discard the pulp.
Step 4: Add Citrus and Chill
Stir in the lemon juice, which adds a refreshing zing that balances the rich flavors of the berries and sage. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1–2 hours.
Step 5: Serve
Fill glasses with ice and pour in the chilled tea. Garnish with a few blackberries, sage leaves, or lemon slices for that wow factor. Serve cold and enjoy immediately.
Flavor Tips and Variations
- Try lavender instead of sage for a floral variation
- Use honey or agave syrup if you don’t have maple syrup
- Add sparkling water for a fizzy version of this tea
- Swap in mint for a refreshing garden-fresh twist
- Serve with a splash of gin for an elevated cocktail
Health Benefits of Blackberry Sage Iced Tea
- Blackberries are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants
- Sage may help improve digestion and reduce inflammation
- Lemon juice aids hydration and gives a vitamin C boost
- Maple syrup is a natural sweetener with minerals like zinc and manganese
This isn’t just a drink—it’s a wellness ritual disguised as a treat!
What to Serve With Blackberry Sage Iced Tea
Pair this refreshing iced tea with:
- Fresh fruit salads
- Grilled chicken or veggie skewers
- Lemon poppyseed muffins
- Herb-roasted almonds
- Charcuterie boards for a casual get-together
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in a sealed pitcher for up to 4 days
- Freeze Leftovers: Pour into ice cube trays for flavor-packed cubes
- Make Ahead: Perfect for prepping the night before a brunch or barbecue
Final Sip
This Blackberry Sage Iced Tea is one of those recipes that makes you fall in love with the beauty of simple ingredients. It’s fresh, elegant, and soothing, making it the perfect signature drink for your summer menu.
Whether you’re hosting or just hydrating in style, this tea will have everyone asking for the recipe.
The Goods
Blackberry Sage Iced Tea
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Recipes
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blackberries
- 3 tbsp fresh sage leaves
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 tbsp maple syrup adjust to taste
- Ice cubes
Optional: sage leaves or lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Infuse the Sage
- Start by bringing the water to a gentle simmer in a medium saucepan. Turn off the heat and add the sage leaves. Let them steep for about 5 minutes. This allows the herbal oils to infuse into the water, giving your tea a lovely, earthy base.
Step 2: Add and Mash the Berries
- Next, toss the blackberries into the sage water and return the mixture to a simmer. Once simmering, remove from heat and gently mash the blackberries to release their juice and vibrant color. Stir in the maple syrup and let it dissolve fully.
Tip: Adjust the maple syrup to taste depending on how sweet or tart your berries are.
Step 3: Strain and Cool
- Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature. Then, strain it through a fine mesh sieve into a pitcher. Press the solids with the back of a spoon to extract every last drop of flavor. Discard the pulp.
Step 4: Add Citrus and Chill
- Stir in the lemon juice, which adds a refreshing zing that balances the rich flavors of the berries and sage. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1–2 hours.
Step 5: Serve
- Fill glasses with ice and pour in the chilled tea. Garnish with a few blackberries, sage leaves, or lemon slices for that wow factor. Serve cold and enjoy immediately.
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