How to Make Iced Rhubarb Tea: A Refreshing Summer Drink with a Tart Twist

Nothing says summer quite like a glass of chilled, vibrant Iced Rhubarb Tea. This refreshing beverage blends the natural tartness of rhubarb with the smooth, soothing notes of herbal tea, creating the ultimate cooler for hot days. Whether you’re lounging in the backyard, hosting a picnic, or simply looking for a unique homemade drink to brighten your afternoon, this easy recipe delivers in both taste and presentation.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make Iced Rhubarb Tea using simple ingredients. You’ll also discover the many benefits of this craft, how it tastes, storage tips, useful tricks for the best flavor, and answers to common questions. Let’s dive into this crisp and colorful recipe that’s just as enjoyable to make as it is to sip.

Ingredients

To prepare this summer-perfect drink, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 cups chopped fresh rhubarb (about 3–4 stalks)
• 4 cups water
• 2–3 tablespoons honey, maple syrup, or sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1–2 herbal tea bags (like hibiscus, mint, or rooibos)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
• Ice cubes
• Lemon slices, mint, or berries for garnish (optional)

This recipe is flexible enough to accommodate your taste preferences—swap sweeteners or experiment with different herbal teas for your own twist on the classic version.

Instructions

1. Simmer the Rhubarb: Start by placing the chopped rhubarb and 4 cups of water in a medium saucepan. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the rhubarb breaks down and the water takes on a rosy-pink color.
2. Infuse with Tea: Turn off the heat and immediately add your chosen tea bags to the hot rhubarb liquid. Let them steep for about 5 to 7 minutes to allow the flavors to fully develop. Herbal blends like hibiscus bring out rhubarb’s floral notes, while mint adds a cooling touch.
3. Sweeten and Add Citrus: Remove the tea bags and stir in your preferred sweetener—honey, maple syrup, or sugar—adjusting to your liking. If you enjoy a bright, citrusy finish, mix in a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice at this stage.
4. Strain and Cool: Using a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth, strain the tea into a clean pitcher. Press down gently on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the pulp, then let the tea cool at room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator. Chill for at least one hour.
5. Serve and Garnish: When ready to serve, fill glasses with ice and pour over the chilled rhubarb tea. Garnish with lemon slices, a sprig of mint, or a few fresh berries for an elegant touch.

This drink is simple to make, yet its flavor and appearance are striking—perfect for any summer gathering.

Benefits of This Craft

Making Iced Rhubarb Tea at home is more than just a refreshing treat—it also offers a range of health and lifestyle benefits:

• Naturally Hydrating: Rhubarb tea is water-rich and caffeine-free, making it an ideal drink for hydration during warm weather.
• Rich in Antioxidants: Rhubarb contains polyphenols, and when paired with herbal teas like hibiscus or rooibos, this drink becomes a powerhouse of antioxidants that support overall health.
• Supports Digestion: Rhubarb has long been used in traditional remedies for digestion. When combined with lemon and herbal teas, it can help soothe the stomach and support gut health.
• Reduces Sugar Intake: Homemade drinks like this one let you control the sweetness, helping you cut back on processed sugars found in store-bought beverages.
• Promotes Creativity: Experimenting with tea blends and garnishes gives you a fun, hands-on way to explore flavors and personalize your beverage experience.

Tips

To ensure the best flavor and presentation, consider these tips when making your rhubarb tea:

• Use Young, Bright Rhubarb: Choose fresh stalks that are crisp and deep red in color. These offer the best flavor and vibrant hue.
• Don’t Oversteep the Tea: Leaving the tea bags in for too long can lead to bitterness. Stick to the recommended steeping time of 5 to 7 minutes.
• Taste Before You Chill: After sweetening, taste the tea while it’s still warm. Adjust the honey, lemon, or other additions as needed before chilling.
• Double the Batch: If you’re making this for a gathering, consider doubling the recipe. This tea disappears fast once people get a taste.
• Add Sparkling Water: For a fizzy version, mix the rhubarb tea with chilled sparkling water just before serving.

What Does It Taste Like?

Iced Rhubarb Tea is a beautiful balance of tart and sweet. The rhubarb offers a crisp, slightly tangy bite, mellowed by the warmth of the herbal tea and the smoothness of the sweetener. If you add lemon juice, it brings a zesty brightness that enhances the overall freshness of the drink. Depending on your choice of herbal tea, you might also get floral, minty, or earthy undertones that round out the flavor. The result is a cooling, complex drink that feels indulgent yet completely refreshing.

How to Store

Proper storage ensures your Iced Rhubarb Tea stays fresh and delicious for several days:

• Refrigerate Promptly: After straining and cooling the tea, place it in a sealed glass pitcher or container in the fridge.
• Use Within 4 Days: For the best taste, enjoy your tea within 3 to 4 days. After that, the flavor may begin to fade, and the tea can lose its bright color.
• Shake or Stir Before Serving: Natural separation may occur. Give the tea a good stir or shake before pouring.
• Avoid Adding Garnishes Until Serving: Garnishes like lemon slices or berries are best added just before serving to maintain their freshness and appearance.

Homemade Iced Rhubarb Tea is an easy and flavorful way to celebrate the summer season. It’s light, hydrating, and bursting with fresh garden flavor. With just a handful of ingredients, you can make a drink that looks as good as it tastes. It’s ideal for everything from casual backyard barbecues to elegant garden parties—or just a peaceful afternoon at home.

If you enjoyed this recipe, you’ll find More DIY craft ideas to inspire your daily kitchen and home adventures. Explore new recipes, crafts, and creative food ideas that make every day more delightful.

For additional inspiration and visuals, check out related Iced Rhubarb Tea ideas on Pinterest by searching for “Rhubarb Summer Drinks” and discover a variety of ways others are customizing and styling this colorful beverage.

FAQ

Can I use frozen rhubarb instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen rhubarb works well. Let it thaw slightly before simmering to ensure even cooking.

What type of herbal tea is best with rhubarb?
Hibiscus adds a floral tang that complements rhubarb’s tartness. Mint adds a cool, refreshing flavor, while rooibos brings earthiness. Choose based on your preference.

Can I make this into a sparkling drink?
Absolutely. Mix equal parts rhubarb tea and sparkling water just before serving for a fizzy twist.

How can I make this sugar-free?
Use a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit if you want a low-calorie or sugar-free option.

What else can I do with leftover rhubarb pulp?
You can compost it or use it in a smoothie or fruit compote, though it will have a mild, cooked flavor.