How to Make Iced Tea with Loose Leaf Tea
Brewing & Techniques Brooke LaFlamme Brewing & Techniques Brooke LaFlamme

How to Make Iced Tea with Loose Leaf Tea

Iced tea is one of the easiest ways to enjoy loose leaf tea in warm weather. It’s refreshing, naturally flavorful, and simple to make at home without relying on bottled drinks, mixes, or pre-sweetened teas.

The good news is that nearly any loose leaf tea can be served iced. June is National Iced Tea Month, which makes it the perfect time to learn how easy it is to make iced tea with loose leaf tea.

One of the benefits of making iced tea at home is that you can control the strength, sweetness, and ingredients. Whether you like a classic black iced tea, a bright hibiscus herbal tea, or a refreshing green tea over ice, the basic process is simple.

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Does Tea Have Caffeine? What Actually Affects the Amount
Tea Basics Brooke LaFlamme Tea Basics Brooke LaFlamme

Does Tea Have Caffeine? What Actually Affects the Amount

Does tea have caffeine? It’s one of the questions I get asked most often.

Short answer: Yes—most tea contains caffeine, typically between 20–60 mg per cup, though the exact amount varies widely depending on the tea and how it’s brewed.

But how much caffeine ends up in your cup depends on more than just the type of tea. In fact, it’s one of the most misunderstood aspects of tea, and a common source of confusion for people trying to manage their intake.

This post breaks down the factors that affect caffeine in tea, what matters (and what doesn’t), and how to choose something that works for you.

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How to Brew Loose Leaf Tea (A Simple Beginner’s Guide)
Tea Basics, Brewing & Techniques Brooke LaFlamme Tea Basics, Brewing & Techniques Brooke LaFlamme

How to Brew Loose Leaf Tea (A Simple Beginner’s Guide)

Loose leaf tea has a reputation for being complicated—but it’s easier than most people expect.

At its core, tea is just leaves, water, and time. Once you understand a few basic principles, it becomes a simple, repeatable way to make a better cup of tea—without needing specialized equipment or technical skill.

If you’ve ever felt intimidated by loose leaf tea, this is a good place to start.

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Cold Brew vs. Iced Tea: What’s the Difference (and Which Should You Make?)
Brewing & Techniques Brooke LaFlamme Brewing & Techniques Brooke LaFlamme

Cold Brew vs. Iced Tea: What’s the Difference (and Which Should You Make?)

Discover the delicious difference between iced tea and cold brew tea — from brewing methods and flavor profiles to caffeine levels and best practices. Whether you're steeping loose leaf over ice or letting it chill in the fridge overnight, this guide will help you choose the perfect method and master brewing styles for loose-leaf teas like Hoboken Breakfast, White Peony, Dragon Well and more. Learn how temperature influences flavonoids, catechins and tannins so you can brew a smoother, less astringent cup that reflects your taste and lifestyle.

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