There’s something irresistibly magical about cherry blossom iced tea—a delicate blend that captures the essence of spring in every sip. With its subtle floral notes, refreshing chill, and elegant pink hue, this unique beverage is more than just a drink; it’s an experience. Curious what makes it so special? Keep reading to uncover the secrets behind this enchanting brew.
| Servings: | 4 |
| Prep Time: | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 5 minutes |
| Total Time: | 15 minutes |
| Serving Size: | 1 cup |
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons dried cherry blossoms or 4 preserved sakura blossoms
- 4 cups filtered water
- 2 green tea bags or 2 teaspoons loose leaf green tea
- 2 tablespoons honey or sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Ice cubes
- Fresh mint or edible flowers for garnish
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Teapot or heatproof bowl
- Mesh strainer or tea infuser
- Measuring spoons
- Glass pitcher
- Serving glasses
Instructions
- Step 1: If you’re using preserved sakura blossoms, be sure to rinse them under cold water to remove excess salt. Dried cherry blossoms can go straight into your pot.
- Step 2: In a small saucepan, bring 4 cups of filtered water to a gentle boil. I always recommend filtered water for tea, especially when working with delicate floral ingredients. The cleaner the water, the purer the taste.
- Step 3: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the water to cool for a minute or two. Green tea and cherry blossoms are both sensitive to overly hot water, which can make them taste bitter instead of clean and floral.
- Step 4: Add in the tea and your blossoms. If using loose tea, a tea infuser or mesh strainer will make your life easier later. Let everything steep for 3 to 5 minutes. I usually stop at the 4-minute mark for a balanced flavor that still lets the cherry blossom shine.
- Step 5: Strain the tea into a glass pitcher, removing whichever form of tea and blossoms you used. The floral aroma at this point is just heavenly.
- Step 6: Stir in your honey or sugar while the tea is still warm so it dissolves completely. Then add the lemon juice, which brightens the floral notes and adds a gentle sparkle to the overall flavor profile.
- Step 7: Let the tea cool on the counter until it reaches room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 1 hour for the best flavor and refreshing coolness.
- Step 8: When ready to serve, pour the tea over ice in clear glasses. This is where you can really show off its soft blush color. Garnish with a cherry blossom, a few edible flowers, or a small mint sprig. It’s the little touches that make this tea feel like a celebration.
Nutrition per serving
| Calories | 45 |
| Protein | 0g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Fat | 0g |
| Sugar | 10g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sodium | 20mg |
Description
Cherry blossom iced tea is like springtime in a glass. Delicate, floral, and slightly fruity, this tea captures the gentle elegance of blooming cherry trees on a sunny afternoon. With soft notes of sakura mingling with green tea and a kiss of sweetness, every sip feels like a breeze through a blossoming orchard. It is not just a drink—it is an entire season distilled into a chilled refreshment.
This tea is particularly beautiful when served over ice in a clear glass, its soft pink hue glowing like sunset light over snow. Aromatic and lightly sweet, it is the perfect way to cool down during warmer months while still enjoying a touch of luxury. Whether you’re looking to elevate your afternoon routine or impress guests at a brunch or garden party, cherry blossom iced tea brings beauty and calm to any setting.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cherry blossom iced tea is as easy to make as it is beautiful to serve. You can prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the fridge for spontaneous sipping or make a large batch for your next gathering. Using just a few ingredients, including specialty sakura tea or preserved cherry blossoms, this recipe combines elegance with simplicity.
Beyond its graceful flavor, this tea is a healthier alternative to sugary drinks. It is low in calories and offers the gentle energy boost of green tea without the crash. Customizable with honey or lemon, it fits a wide range of dietary preferences and elevates everyday iced tea into something extraordinary.
Serving and Storage Tips
Cherry blossom iced tea is best served chilled over ice. Garnish with a dried cherry blossom or a fresh mint sprig for added beauty. Store any leftover tea in the refrigerator in a sealed glass pitcher or jar for up to 4 days. The flavor will become more complex over time but may slightly lose its floral intensity after the first two days.
To make ahead, brew the tea and store it in the fridge without adding ice. Add ice just before serving for the freshest taste. Freezing is not recommended, as this may dull the floral notes and alter the texture of the tea. For a sparkling twist, top off your glass with unflavored sparkling water or soda right before serving.
Course, Cuisine, Keywords
Drink, Japanese, cherry blossom tea, iced tea, spring drink, sakura, floral beverage, nonalcoholic
Servings, Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Serving Size
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Serving Size: 1 cup
For an elegant touch, float a single cherry blossom in each serving glass. If using honey, opt for a light floral variety like orange blossom or wildflower to complement the sakura.
FAQ
Can I make a larger batch for a party?
Yes, simply double or triple the ingredients and prepare the tea in a larger pot. Let it chill in a large pitcher or beverage dispenser for effortless refills during the event.
What does cherry blossom actually taste like?
Cherry blossoms have a subtly floral and slightly fruity flavor with a hint of almond. When steeped, they lend a delicate perfume and gentle sweetness to the tea.
Can this recipe be made hot instead of iced?
Absolutely. Follow the same steps but serve immediately in teacups without chilling. It makes a comforting, floral afternoon tea in cooler months or quiet evenings.
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Cherry Blossom Iced Tea
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons dried cherry blossoms or 4 preserved sakura blossoms
- 4 cups filtered water
- 2 green tea bags or 2 teaspoons loose leaf green tea
- 2 tablespoons honey or sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Ice cubes
- Fresh mint or edible flowers for garnish
Instructions
- If using preserved cherry blossoms, rinse them under cold water to remove salt. If using dried blossoms, skip this step.
- In a small saucepan, bring 4 cups of filtered water to a gentle boil.
- Remove from heat and allow the water to cool slightly for 1 to 2 minutes before adding tea.
- Add the green tea bags or loose leaf green tea and cherry blossoms. Let steep for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Strain the tea into a pitcher to remove the blossoms and tea leaves or remove tea bags.
- Stir in honey or sugar while the tea is still warm, then add lemon juice. Mix well.
- Allow the tea to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Serve the tea over ice in glasses. Garnish with additional blossoms, mint, or edible flowers if desired.
