An iced tea latte is a delicious and refreshing summertime drink that combines chilled tea with steamed milk and a splash of sweetener. It’s a fabulous alternative to an iced coffee on a hot day. The tea provides natural caffeine while the milk lends creaminess and texture. Iced tea lattes are easy to make at home or customize at your favorite coffee shop. Keep reading to learn all about this popular chilled tea beverage!
What are the main ingredients in an iced tea latte?
The primary ingredients that go into an iced tea latte are:
- Brewed strong tea – Black, green, white or herbal tea may be used as the base
- Milk – Typically 2% or nonfat milk is steamed and frothed
- Sweetener – Sugar, honey, flavored syrup or sweetened condensed milk
- Ice
The tea provides the main flavor while the steamed milk gives it a boost of creaminess. The sweetener balances out the potential bitterness from the tea. Finally, pouring it over ice makes it chilled and refreshing.
How is an iced tea latte made?
Making an iced tea latte is a simple 4 step process:
- Brew a strong cup of your favorite tea – Black, green, white or herbal tea all work well. Let cool.
- Steam and froth milk – 2% or nonfat milk is typically used. Frothing helps it blend better.
- Sweeten to taste – Sugar, honey, flavored syrup or sweetened condensed milk are all options.
- Combine over ice and enjoy! – Pour the tea and milk over ice and stir to blend.
The key is using strongly brewed tea so its flavor shines through even after adding cold milk. Getting the milk nicely frothed also helps it incorporate smoothly into the tea rather than separating.
What are some popular flavors of iced tea lattes?
While any type of tea can be turned into a latte, some flavors are especially popular:
Classic Black Tea Latte
A latte made with robust black tea like English breakfast or Assam is a delicious classic. The slight bitterness pairs nicely with creamy milk.
Chai Tea Latte
For a warmly spiced latte, chai tea concentrate can be mixed with steamed milk and chilled over ice. Sweeten to taste.
Matcha Green Tea Latte
Matcha green tea powder blends vibrant grassy flavors with the milk for a sweet, earthy latte.
Thai Tea Latte
For an exotic twist, use strongly brewed Thai tea which lends a spicy, robust flavor and orange hue.
Lavender Tea Latte
Soothing lavender tea makes a lightly floral latte that’s perfect for unwinding.
Earl Grey Tea Latte
Bergamot-infused Earl Grey tea combines beautifully with milk for a refreshing citrusy latte.
What are some ways to customize an iced tea latte?
One of the great things about tea lattes is how versatile they are. There are many creative ways to customize them:
- Use frothed milk alternatives like almond, oat or soy
- Flavor with honey, maple syrup, vanilla, almond or hazelnut syrup
- Top with whipped cream, flavored whipped cream or ice cream
- Garnish with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg or cardamom
- Add espresso or coffee for an iced tea mocha
- Blend with fresh fruit like strawberries, peaches or bananas
- Swirl caramel, chocolate or berry sauce through the latte
Let your creativity run wild! The possibilities are nearly endless for crafting a unique tea latte.
What are the benefits of drinking iced tea lattes?
Iced tea lattes offer several excellent benefits including:
- Hydration – The liquid provides hydration, which is especially important in hot weather.
- Energy – Many teas contain caffeine to naturally boost your energy levels.
- Antioxidants – Tea provides polyphenols and antioxidants that can boost health.
- Low calorie – Without too many added mix-ins, tea lattes are lower in calories than many coffee drinks.
- Digestion – Tea can aid digestion and soothe an upset stomach.
- Relaxation – Herbal tea lattes can have calming properties to help you decompress.
Plus they taste absolutely delicious served up cold on a hot day!
Are there any downsides to iced tea lattes?
Iced tea lattes are a healthy beverage choice overall. However a few potential downsides to keep in mind are:
- Caffeine content – If drinking caffeinated tea, beware it can make you jittery or anxious if consumed in excess.
- Milk content – Those sensitive to dairy may experience bloating, gas or indigestion.
- Sugar content – Added sugars increase the calorie count and can cause an energy crash.
- Acidic – Tea’s acidity may bother those with sensitive stomachs or reflux.
To avoid these, opt for herbal caffeine-free teas, dairy-free milk alternatives, less sweetener and avoiding drinking on an empty stomach. Moderation is key!
Conclusion
Iced tea lattes make for the ultimate chilled summertime beverage. They refreshingly combine robust brewed tea with frothy steamed milk and natural sweetness. The variations are endless, allowing you to get creative and craft the perfect latte. Sip your way through all the delicious options! With some many flavors to explore, you may never want to drink plain iced tea again. Stay cool, hydrated and energized this summer with a homemade or store-bought iced tea latte.