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Refreshing Mint Julep Sweet Tea Lemonade Punch

mint julep sweet tea lemonade punch - featured image

A quick and easy crowd-pleasing punch combining sweet tea, lemonade, fresh mint, and an optional bourbon twist, perfect for summer parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 45 black tea bags
  • 6 cups (1.4 liters) water
  • 3/4 cup (150 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (240 ml) fresh lemon juice (about 46 lemons)
  • 2 cups (480 ml) cold water
  • 1 cup loosely packed fresh mint leaves
  • 1 cup (240 ml) bourbon whiskey (optional)
  • Ice cubes

Instructions

  1. Bring 6 cups (1.4 liters) of water to a boil in a kettle or saucepan. Remove from heat and add 4-5 black tea bags. Let steep for 5-7 minutes depending on desired strength. Remove tea bags gently without squeezing.
  2. While the tea is still warm, stir in 3/4 cup (150 grams) granulated sugar until fully dissolved. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed. Set aside to cool to room temperature.
  3. In a separate container, combine 1 cup (240 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice with 2 cups (480 ml) cold water. Stir well.
  4. Gently bruise 1 cup of fresh mint leaves to release their oils without tearing them into tiny pieces.
  5. In a large pitcher or punch bowl, mix the cooled sweet tea with the lemonade base. Add the bruised mint leaves and, if using, 1 cup (240 ml) bourbon whiskey.
  6. Add plenty of ice cubes to chill the punch thoroughly. Let rest for at least 30 minutes in the fridge to meld flavors. Stir gently before serving and garnish with extra mint sprigs and lemon wheels.

Notes

Do not over-steep the tea to avoid bitterness. Use room temperature tea when mixing with lemonade to prevent curdling. Bruise mint leaves gently for best flavor. Adjust sweetness after combining all ingredients. Use plenty of ice to keep punch refreshing. For fizz, top off with sparkling water before serving. Prepare tea and lemonade base ahead to save time but add ice just before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: mint julep, sweet tea, lemonade punch, summer drink, bourbon punch, refreshing beverage, party punch