Hibiscus Iced Tea

If you have never made hibiscus iced tea at home, you are genuinely missing out on one of the most beautiful and refreshing drinks on the planet. This tea (also known as agua de Jamaica in Mexican cuisine) is made from dried hibiscus flowers and brews into the most stunning deep ruby red color you have ever seen in a glass. It is tart and floral and a little berry-like and sweetened with honey it is just absolutely perfect for sipping on a hot summer day.

I got hooked on this at a Mexican restaurant years ago and then discovered how insanely easy it is to make at home. A batch takes about 15 minutes of active time and then chills in the fridge. It lasts all week and gets better every day. This is my most made non-alcoholic drink all summer and I love having it in the fridge for the kids and myself when I want something special that is not just water or juice.

Where to Find Hibiscus Flowers

Look for dried hibiscus flowers (flor de Jamaica) at any Mexican grocery store, most health food stores, or in the Latin foods aisle of a larger grocery store. They are inexpensive, bright magenta colored, and smell absolutely incredible. Store the extra flowers in an airtight container and they will keep for months. You will want to have plenty on hand because you will make this constantly.

Make It Your Own

The spices (cinnamon and cloves) are optional but they add a really beautiful warmth that makes this tea taste even more special. You can also add a little fresh ginger while steeping for a spicy kick. For sweetener, honey is my favorite but sugar, agave, or even a simple syrup all work great. Start with less sweetener and add more to taste since the hibiscus is naturally quite tart.

Hibiscus Iced Tea

Vibrant ruby-red hibiscus iced tea made from dried hibiscus flowers, naturally tart and refreshing. Sweetened with honey and brightened with fresh lime.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6 cocktails

Course: Drinks

Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 6 cups water divided
• 0.5 cup dried hibiscus flowers also called Jamaica flowers or flor de Jamaica
• 0.25 cup honey or sugar adjust to taste
• 1 cinnamon stick optional
• 3 whole cloves optional
• 2 limes one juiced, one sliced for garnish
• ice and fresh mint for serving

Method

 

1. Bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Add dried hibiscus flowers, cinnamon stick, and cloves if using.
2. Remove from heat and steep for 10 minutes. Strain out flowers and spices.
3. While warm, stir in honey or sugar until fully dissolved.
4. Add remaining 3 cups cold water and lime juice. Stir to combine.
5. Refrigerate until cold, at least 1 hour. Serve over ice with lime slices and fresh mint.

Notes

Hibiscus flowers can be found at Mexican grocery stores, health food stores, or online. The tea will be very concentrated and deep red when brewed, then lightens beautifully when diluted with the cold water.

Serving Ideas

Serve over lots of ice with a squeeze of fresh lime and a sprig of mint. It is beautiful in a mason jar, a tall glass, or a big glass pitcher for a gathering. For a fun cocktail version, add 2 oz of vodka or tequila to a glass of hibiscus tea over ice for the most gorgeous drink you have ever made. The color contrast when you pour the spirits in is just stunning.

This is one of those recipes that feels fancy but is so simple and accessible. Make a big batch this weekend and watch how fast it disappears. I promise your whole family will be obsessed. Enjoy every gorgeous ruby-red sip!

XO, Pam