How to Make Refreshing Mango Iced Tea

Iced tea is the most consumed cold beverage in the U.S. after soda, and mango ranks in the top five most-loved tropical fruits worldwide. So what happens when you combine these two summer icons into one delicious, refreshing drink? You get the best refreshing Mango Iced Tea – a sun-kissed, citrusy cooler that’s perfect for hot days, brunches, backyard BBQs, or even as a daily hydration boost.

If you’re hosting friends or just chilling at home, this iced tea recipe will become your go-to. The vibrant flavor of ripe mango puree blended with the zing of fresh lime and the bold richness of black tea? Absolute perfection in a glass. And the best part – it’s so easy to make, you’ll want to sip it all season long!

How to Make a Refreshing Mango Iced Tea

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 5 minutes

Servings: 3–4 | Course: Drinks

Ingredients

• • 4 cups of water
  • 4 black tea bags
  • 6 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1 cup mango puree (fresh or store-bought)
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • Ice cubes
  • Garnish: Fresh mint leaves, lime slices, mango cubes

Zulay Says: For the best experience, use fresh mango puree made from ripe mangos. If using frozen mango, thaw and blend it into a smooth puree. You can also sweeten your puree beforehand for extra flavor.

Instructions

1. In an electric water kettle, bring 4 cups of water to a boil over high heat.
2. Turn off the heat and add 4 black tea bags. Cover with a lid and let steep for 1–2 minutes (or longer for stronger tea). Remove the tea bags once it reaches your desired strength.

3. Pour the tea into a large pitcher. While the tea is still warm, stir in 6 tablespoons of sugar until dissolved.

4. Stir in 1 cup of mango puree and the juice of 2 fresh limes. Mix well until fully incorporated.

5. Place the pitcher in the fridge and chill for at least 1–2 hours or until cold.

6. Fill glasses with ice cubes. Pour the chilled mango iced tea over the ice, and garnish with mint leaves, lime slices, and mango chunks.

7. Sip and smile! You’ve just made the ultimate summer cooler.

Tips, Variations & Serving Ideas

• • Use green tea instead of black for a more delicate flavor.
  • Make it fizzy by topping each glass with sparkling water right before serving.
  • Add fresh herbs like basil or mint into the pitcher while it chills for an aromatic twist.
  • Sweeten naturally with honey or agave syrup if you’re avoiding refined sugar.
  • Make it spicy with a dash of cayenne pepper or fresh ginger for a detoxifying kick.
  • Turn it into a cocktail by adding a splash of white rum or vodka – perfect for summer parties!

Make Your Own Mango Iced Tea Today!

This Refreshing Mango Iced Tea is more than just a drink – it’s sunshine in a glass. It’s a way to cool down, indulge in tropical flavor, and feel good about what you’re sipping. Ready to give it a try? Don’t forget to check out our kitchen tools to make prep even easier.

Other Kitchen Tools from Zulay Kitchen

To make this recipe even easier, we recommend using these must-have tools from Zulay Kitchen:

• • Citrus Juicer – For getting every drop of juice out of your limes with zero mess.
  • Ice Cube Tray – Create perfectly shaped ice cubes for Instagram-worthy drinks.
  • Fruit Infuser Water Bottle – Keep the mango magic going all day long.

Share the Summer Vibes!

Loved this recipe? Share it with your friends on social media and tag us @zulay_kitchen using #kitchenhappiness. Let’s spread the joy of homemade drinks together.

Frequently Asked Questions About This Recipe

Can I use green tea instead of black tea?

Absolutely! Green tea brings a lighter, earthier flavor that complements the sweetness of mango beautifully. Just be sure to steep it a little shorter (about 1 minute) to avoid bitterness. It’s also rich in antioxidants and can offer a more delicate taste profile. Perfect for those looking for a caffeine-light version of the original.

Can I use fresh mango instead of puree?

Yes! Simply peel and dice ripe mangoes, then blend them into a smooth puree using a blender or food processor. Using a kitchen strainer, you can strain the puree if you want a smoother texture. This gives a fresher, richer mango flavor to the tea. It’s best to taste and adjust the sweetness since fresh mangoes vary in ripeness.

How long can I store mango iced tea in the fridge?

Your mango iced tea will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep it covered in an airtight pitcher or jar. If you’ve added mint or lime slices as garnish, remove them before storing them to avoid bitterness. Give it a quick stir before serving, especially if you notice the mango puree settling.

Can I make it sugar-free?

Definitely! Swap out the sugar for your favorite sugar substitutes like stevia, monk fruit, or erythritol. 

Can I make it ahead for a party?

Yes, this is a fantastic make-ahead drink. Prepare the iced tea the night before and keep it chilled in the fridge. Only add ice and garnishes right before serving so everything stays fresh and vibrant.

Can I use bottled lime juice?

You can, but for the best taste, we recommend fresh lime juice. Bottled versions often contain preservatives that can alter the flavor. A citrus juicer makes squeezing fresh limes fast and easy, and the difference in flavor is definitely worth it.

What if I want to turn this into a cocktail?

Go for it! A splash of vodka, rum, or even tequila pairs wonderfully with the mango-lime-black tea trio. You can also top it with Prosecco for a bubbly brunch twist. Just be sure to keep your alcohol-to-tea ratio light to maintain that refreshing, balanced taste.