Tea Recipes to Try at Home

Refreshing iced tea

Iced tea is a summer staple and beautifully simple to make. Brew your chosen tea at double strength, let it cool, then pour over plenty of ice and add fresh fruit, mint or a squeeze of citrus to lift it.

For a smoother result with no bitterness, try cold brewing: steep the leaves in cold water in the fridge for several hours or overnight. Green teas and fruity herbal blends are especially lovely this way.

Warming spiced brews and lattes

When the weather cools, a spiced tea is pure comfort. Simmer black tea with milk, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom and a touch of sweetener for a homemade chai-style drink that fills the kitchen with warmth.

You can also turn a strong brew into a simple latte by frothing warm milk of your choice and pouring it over. A dusting of spice on top makes it feel like a treat.

Cooking and creating with tea

Tea isn't just for drinking. Strong brewed tea can be used to poach fruit, flavour syrups, or add depth to baking, while finely ground leaves can season biscuits and cakes.

Herbal blends make gorgeous bases for jellies, ice blocks and mocktails too. Once you start experimenting, a well-stocked tea shelf becomes a surprisingly handy pantry ingredient.

Frequently asked questions

How do I make iced tea from loose leaf tea?

Brew the tea at double strength, let it cool, then pour over ice with fresh fruit or citrus. For a smoother result, cold brew the leaves in the fridge overnight.

Can I make a tea latte at home?

Yes. Brew a strong cup, then top it with frothed warm milk of your choice and a sprinkle of spice for a simple, cafe-style tea latte.

Which teas work best for recipes?

Robust black teas suit spiced brews and lattes, while green and fruity herbal blends shine in iced tea, cold brews and lighter creations.

Can I cook with tea?

Absolutely. Brewed tea can flavour syrups, poached fruit and baking, while ground leaves and herbal blends add interest to biscuits, jellies and desserts.