Summer is the perfect time to enjoy tea cold.
Instead of drinking a hot cup, many people make tea ahead of time and keep it chilled in the refrigerator. In the U.S., two popular summer methods are sun tea and cold brew tea.
They may look similar, but the brewing process is quite different.
Here’s a simple guide to how they work, how to make them, and which teas are best for each method.
Sun Tea vs. Cold Brew Tea: What's the Difference?
The biggest difference is how the tea is brewed.
Sun tea is traditionally made by placing tea and water in a glass container and leaving it in the sunlight for several hours.
Cold brew tea is made by steeping tea directly in cold water, usually in the refrigerator.
| Sun Tea | Cold Brew Tea | |
|---|---|---|
| Water | Room temperature | Cold |
| Brewing method | Traditionally in sunlight | Refrigerator |
| Brewing time | Several hours | Usually 6–8 hours |
| Flavor | Light and refreshing | Smooth and mellow |
| Best for | Summer tradition | Everyday preparation |
Both methods can create refreshing iced tea, but cold brewing gives you more control over the temperature and brewing environment.
How to Make Sun Tea
Traditional sun tea is remarkably simple.
Step 1: Add Tea and Water
Place tea bags or loose leaf tea into a clean glass container and fill it with water.
A large glass pitcher or jar works well.
Step 2: Let It Brew
Traditionally, the container is placed outside in direct sunlight for several hours.
As the water warms, the tea gradually infuses into the water.
Step 3: Chill and Serve
Once the tea has reached the strength you like, remove the tea and refrigerate it.
Serve over ice and add lemon, fresh fruit, or mint if you like.
A Note About Sun Tea Safety
Traditional sun tea has a nostalgic place in American summer culture, but leaving water at warm outdoor temperatures for extended periods can create conditions where bacteria may grow.
For a more controlled preparation, refrigerated cold brewing is the safer everyday option.
You can still enjoy the spirit of sun tea by preparing your tea in the refrigerator and serving it outside on a sunny afternoon.
How to Make Cold Brew Tea
Cold brew tea is even easier and doesn't require sunlight.
Step 1: Add Tea Leaves
Start with about 1 teaspoon of loose leaf tea per 8–10 ounces of water.
You can adjust the amount depending on how strong you like your tea.
Step 2: Add Cold Water
Pour cold or room-temperature water over the leaves.
A glass pitcher or bottle works well.
Step 3: Refrigerate
Place the tea in the refrigerator and let it steep for around 6–8 hours.
You can experiment with shorter or longer steeping times depending on the tea.
Step 4: Strain and Enjoy
Remove the tea leaves and serve chilled.
Add lemon, mint, berries, peaches, or other fresh ingredients for a simple summer drink.
Which Teas Are Best for Sun Tea and Cold Brew?
Almost any traditional tea can be brewed cold, but some varieties work particularly well.
Green Tea
Green tea is a classic choice for summer.
Its fresh, light flavor works well over ice, while jasmine green tea adds a naturally floral aroma.
Best for: people who enjoy fresh and refreshing flavors.
White Tea
White tea has a delicate flavor with subtle floral and naturally sweet notes.
Cold brewing can make it especially smooth and easy to drink.
Best for: people who prefer lighter, more delicate tea.
Oolong Tea
Oolong offers a wide range of flavors, from floral and creamy to fruity and roasted.
This makes it fun to experiment with as a cold brew.
Best for: people who enjoy exploring different flavors.
Black Tea
Black tea is a good option if you prefer a stronger and richer iced tea.
Cold brewing can create a smoother version of its naturally bold flavor.
Best for: coffee drinkers and anyone who prefers stronger tea.
Pu-erh Tea
Pu-erh has a deeper, earthy character.
It may be less traditional as a summer iced tea, but cold brewing can create a surprisingly smooth drink.
Best for: people who enjoy rich, earthy flavors.
