Mint and Honey Iced Tea with Orange Blossom

There’s something old-fashioned and lovely about iced tea steeped with fresh herbs from the garden. I started making this version with mint and a drizzle of honey, then one day added a touch of orange blossom water—and it was instantly transportive. Light, floral, and barely sweet, this is the kind of tea that makes sitting on the porch feel like a little retreat.

It’s refreshing without being overpowering, and you can adjust the strength and sweetness to your liking. A jar of this in the fridge is my favorite summer afternoon pick-me-up.

📌 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

🫖 Naturally cooling and caffeine-optional
🌼 Orange blossom adds delicate floral notes
🍯 Sweetened gently with honey
🌿 Great for using up fresh garden mint
🧊 Make once, sip all week

📌 Quick Reference Section

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Steep Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Dietary Info: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Key Ingredients at a Glance:
Mint, black or green tea, honey, orange blossom water

📌 Ingredients List

4 cups water
2 black tea bags (or green tea for a lighter version)
½ cup fresh mint leaves (loosely packed)
2–3 teaspoons honey (or to taste)
½ teaspoon orange blossom water
Lemon slices and ice, for serving

Optional Add-ins & Swaps:
Add a few fresh basil leaves or lemon balm
Use maple syrup for vegan sweetening
Swap orange blossom for rose water (use less!)

📌 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Brew the Tea
   Bring water to a simmer (not a boil). Add tea bags and mint leaves. Steep for 15–20 minutes, depending on desired strength. Remove tea bags and mint.
2. Sweeten and Flavor
   Stir in honey while the tea is still warm. Add orange blossom water and let cool to room temperature.
3. Chill and Serve
   Refrigerate until cold. Serve over ice with lemon slices and extra mint if desired.

📌 Serving & Pairing Ideas

Serve with brunch, pastries, or light salads
Make a tea mocktail with a splash of sparkling water
Pair with grilled peaches or lemon cakes

📌 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Fridge: Keeps well for up to 5 days
Make-Ahead: Brew and sweeten ahead of time
Freezing: Freeze into ice cubes for a flavored twist

📌 Final Thoughts

This tea is subtle, refreshing, and just fancy enough to feel special. 🌸 If you give it a try, tag your glass with #SouthernSoilSunshine and let us know how you sipped it!

Looking for more floral garden sips? Try our Thai Basil & Lemongrass Lemonade or Cantaloupe Coconut Smoothie!

I wrote a whole book about gardening this way, and you can have it free.