A light, refreshing drink with a tropical twist and a bright citrusy note — perfect for hot days, summer picnics, or as a fruity alternative to regular tea. The mango chunks inside make it feel like a dessert in a glass!
If you’re looking for a refreshing and simple drink that brings the tropics to you, this Mango Iced Tea is exactly what you need. The blend of green tea’s lightness with the sweet, juicy mango and a zesty lime splash creates the ultimate refresher. Each sip delivers a burst of tropical flavor, while the smooth layers offer a visual treat.
Serve this drink on a hot afternoon, add it to your summer gatherings, or simply enjoy it as a cool, revitalizing escape from the heat!
Mango Iced Tea Ingredients
For this refreshing tropical drink, you’ll need:
- Green tea
- Mango puree (fresh or frozen)
- Fresh mango chunks (optional)
- Lime juice
- Honey, sugar, or syrup (optional)
- Ice cubes
- Lime wedge and mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Note: Scroll down to the recipe card section of the post for the ingredients with amounts included and for more complete directions.
How to Make Mango Iced Tea:
1. Brew the Tea:
Bring water to about 175–185°F (not boiling). Pour the water over your green tea bag or loose leaves and steep for 5–7 minutes. This allows the tea to fully infuse without becoming bitter.
While the tea is still warm, stir in honey, sugar, or syrup to taste. This ensures that the sweetener dissolves completely and blends well with the tea.
Let the tea cool to room temperature, or chill it in the fridge for 10 minutes if you’re in a hurry. This helps avoid diluting the tea when you add the ice.
✅ Tip: To preserve the delicate flavor and antioxidants of green tea, avoid using boiling water. The ideal temperature is between 175–185°F to bring out the best taste without bitterness.
2. Prepare the Mango:
If you’re using fresh mango, peel and dice a portion of it into small cubes (about 2 tablespoons). Blend the rest until smooth to make 2–3 tablespoons of mango purée.
For convenience, you can also use high-quality store-bought mango purée, making sure it has no added sugar or artificial flavorings for the best taste.
✅ Tip: Choose ripe mangoes for a naturally sweeter, more fragrant result. They’ll give your drink that perfect tropical flavor and creamy texture.
3. Assemble the Drink:
In a tall glass, add the mango purée first. This helps create a beautiful layered effect in the glass.
Squeeze in the juice of ¼ lime to add a bright citrusy kick, which balances the sweetness of the mango.
Add ice cubes to the glass, followed by the mango chunks (if using). The ice will help cool down the drink, making it even more refreshing.
Slowly pour the cooled green tea over the top. The tea will float above the mango purée, creating a lovely contrast of colors.
✅ Tip: For the best visual effect, resist the urge to stir immediately. Let the mango layer settle at the bottom while the tea remains on top for a stunning presentation.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Top your drink with a fresh mint leaf, a thin slice of mango, or a lime wedge for that perfect tropical touch.
Serve with a wide straw or long spoon to make it easy to enjoy the layers of flavor. The mint and lime garnish not only add a burst of color but also enhance the drink’s refreshing aroma.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 1
- Difficulty Level: Super easy
Enjoy this Mango Iced Tea as a sunny day pick-me-up, a picnic favorite, or just because you deserve a tropical moment!
Tiger Milk Tea
Ingredients
For the Tapioca Pearls:
- ½ cup black tapioca pearls
- Plenty of water for boiling
- ¼ cup brown sugar preferably muscovado or dark brown sugar for a richer flavor
For Serving:
- 1 cup cold or warm milk dairy or plant-based such as oat or almond
- Ice optional
- Optional topping: a spoonful of whipped cream or milk foam for extra creaminess
Instructions
Cook Tapioca Pearls
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Add tapioca pearls and simmer for 20–30 minutes.
- Remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 10–15 minutes.
- Rinse with cold water and drain.
Make Brown Sugar Syrup
- In a saucepan, heat brown sugar with 2–3 tbsp water until dissolved.
- Add tapioca and simmer for 3–5 minutes until syrup is thick. Stir constantly.
Assemble the Drink
- Spoon the hot tapioca with syrup into a glass. Swirl for “tiger stripe” effect.
- Add ice if using, then pour in milk.
Notes
- Use dark sugar like muscovado or kokutō for richer flavor.
- Try oat, coconut, or soy milk for a vegan version.
- Add strong black tea for a milk tea variation.
- Best enjoyed with a wide straw or spoon!
