Bourbon Mint Iced Tea Recipe: Refreshing Summer Cocktail Drink

This is the ultimate summer drink.

bourbon mint iced tea I howsweeteats.com

Bright, fruity iced tea infused with fresh mint and finished with a splash of bourbon.

bourbon mint iced tea I howsweeteats.com

This refreshing cocktail is perfect for long, warm afternoons. The balance of fruity tea, cooling mint, and smooth bourbon makes it easy to sip and enjoy. It’s an elegant but simple beverage to make for gatherings or a quiet weekend on the porch.

bourbon mint iced tea I howsweeteats.com

If you haven’t been an iced tea fan before, this version might change your mind. The fruity notes lift the tea, the mint adds brightness, and the bourbon brings warmth without overpowering the drink. It’s a modern twist on classic iced tea that feels both nostalgic and refined.

bourbon mint iced tea I howsweeteats.com

The recipe is available from Better Homes & Gardens for step-by-step instructions. Make a pitcher for a party or scale it down for two—either way, garnish with plenty of fresh mint and enjoy chilled over ice.

Serve suggestions:

  • Use a fruity black or herbal tea as a base for added depth.
  • Sweeten to taste with simple syrup so the sweetness blends smoothly into the cold drink.
  • For a nonalcoholic version, omit the bourbon and add an extra splash of citrus or a bit more brewed tea for balance.

Tips for the best result:

  • Steep the tea slightly stronger than for hot tea since it will be diluted with ice and other ingredients.
  • Bruise the mint gently to release its aroma without making it bitter.
  • Chill the brewed tea before assembling the cocktail to keep it crisp and refreshing.

Enjoy this bourbon mint iced tea all summer long—it’s easy to make, beautifully balanced, and wonderfully drinkable.