Cherry Pie Iced Tea Recipe

There’s something magical about sipping a glass of cherry pie iced tea on a warm summer afternoon. The flavors of tart cherries, sweet vanilla, and comforting cinnamon combine into a drink that tastes like dessert in a glass—refreshing, nostalgic, and just the right amount of indulgent.

this Recipe

I came up with this recipe during a backyard BBQ when I was looking for something fun and festive that both kids and adults would love. It’s now a staple at all our summer gatherings, and friends always ask for the recipe before they finish their first glass.

Let’s dive into why you’re going to fall head over heels for this fruity, spiced, and utterly irresistible drink.

Why You’ll Love This Cherry Pie Iced Tea

Get ready to meet your new go-to summer beverage. Cherry pie iced tea isn’t just delicious—it’s a fun and flavorful twist on a classic drink that’s sure to impress.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few pantry ingredients and frozen cherries, you can whip up a batch in under 20 minutes. No fancy equipment or hard-to-find items needed.

It’s a crowd-pleaser across all ages. The flavors are reminiscent of homemade cherry pie, complete with hints of vanilla and spice. Kids love it for its sweet-tart taste, while adults appreciate how refreshing and not-too-sugary it is.

You can make it ahead. This tea stores beautifully in the fridge, which makes it perfect for parties, picnics, or just having something special to sip throughout the week.

Lastly, it’s budget-friendly and flexible. Use frozen cherries, store-brand tea, and whatever sweetener you prefer—this recipe welcomes substitutions without losing its charm.

Let’s break down the ingredients that make this iced tea so memorable.

Ingredients Notes

This cherry pie iced tea is made with everyday staples, but the way they come together creates something truly special. Each element is carefully chosen to mimic the flavors of a slice of cherry pie—without ever turning on the oven.

Frozen cherries are the heart of this recipe. I use sweet dark cherries, which bring rich flavor and vibrant color to the tea. They break down beautifully when simmered, creating a cherry “syrup” that sweetens and flavors the drink naturally.

Black tea is our base. Choose a robust tea like English breakfast or a classic black blend that can hold its own against the cherry and spice. If you're caffeine-sensitive, decaf versions work just as well.

Cinnamon sticks add warmth and a subtle pie-like spice that transforms this from ordinary fruit tea to something with real depth. It’s a small touch, but it makes a big difference.

Vanilla extract brings in that bakery-fresh flavor that reminds you of the sweet filling in a cherry pie. Just a teaspoon goes a long way toward rounding out the tartness of the cherries.

Honey or sugar, depending on your preference, balances the tart and bitter notes. I usually go with honey for its floral sweetness, but feel free to use maple syrup or even stevia for a lighter option.

You’ll also need a fine mesh strainer and a large pitcher or mason jar for cooling and storing the tea. A muddler or spoon helps crush the cherries for maximum flavor extraction.

How To Make This Cherry Pie Iced Tea

Making this iced tea is quick, simple, and the kind of process that makes your kitchen smell amazing. Here’s how it all comes together.

Start by combining your frozen cherries, water, and cinnamon sticks in a medium saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. As it simmers, the cherries will soften and start to release their juices.

After about 10 minutes, use a wooden spoon to mash the cherries lightly. You don’t need to puree them—just break them open enough to deepen the flavor. This step is what gives the tea its beautiful, ruby-red hue and that unmistakable cherry pie essence.

Once the mixture is nice and fragrant, add your tea bags and turn off the heat. Let everything steep together for another 5-7 minutes. This infuses the black tea with cherry and cinnamon notes while keeping it smooth and drinkable.

Next, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a heatproof bowl or pitcher. Press down on the solids to extract every last bit of flavor, then discard the pulp and spices. Stir in the vanilla and your sweetener of choice while the tea is still warm so it dissolves evenly.

Let the tea cool to room temperature, then transfer it to the refrigerator to chill completely—about 1 to 2 hours. Serve over ice with a few whole cherries or a lemon wheel for garnish if you’re feeling fancy.

From start to finish, the process takes just under 30 minutes of active time. The result is a gorgeous, deeply flavorful iced tea that tastes like summer in a glass.

Storage Options

Cherry pie iced tea stores incredibly well, making it ideal for prepping ahead. Pour the cooled tea into a sealed glass pitcher or large mason jar and keep it refrigerated for up to 5 days.

If you’d like to make a larger batch, you can easily double or triple the recipe. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to keep the flavors fresh and bold.

You can also freeze the tea in ice cube trays, then pop the cubes into plain water or soda water for a cherry-flavored twist without dilution.

When it comes time to reheat, this tea actually tastes fantastic warm, too. Gently heat a mug in the microwave or on the stovetop—just skip the ice and enjoy it like a cozy cherry pie-inspired tisane.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can easily switch up ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

Try green tea instead of black tea for a lighter, more delicate flavor. It pairs beautifully with cherries and offers a lower-caffeine alternative.

Swap in fresh cherries during peak season for even more vibrant flavor. Just be sure to pit them first, and you may need to add a little extra sweetener since fresh cherries can be more tart.

Add a splash of lemon juice or orange zest to brighten the flavor and add a citrusy edge that plays well with the sweetness.

For an adult version, stir in a shot of bourbon or amaretto—both complement the pie-like flavors and make this iced tea cocktail-party-ready.

If you’re avoiding sweeteners altogether, skip the honey and let the cherries do all the work. Just be sure your cherries are sweet enough to carry the flavor on their own.

Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own. Whether you’re sipping it poolside or serving it at brunch, cherry pie iced tea is meant to be enjoyed your way—sweet, spiced, and endlessly customizable.

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