Blackberry Tea Iced Tea Latte Recipe

There's something about the combination of juicy blackberries and fragrant black tea that feels like summer in a glass. Add a splash of milk and a bit of sweetness, and you’ve got a Blackberry Tea Iced Tea Latte that’s refreshing, creamy, and just the right amount of indulgent.

this Recipe

I first whipped this up on a hot July afternoon when I had leftover blackberry syrup from a pancake breakfast. One experiment led to another, and now it’s a staple in our fridge whenever the temperatures start to climb.

Whether you’re looking for a caffeine-kissed afternoon cooler or a brunch-worthy sipper, this iced tea latte fits the bill. It’s easy to make, surprisingly affordable, and absolutely beautiful in the glass.

Let’s dive into what makes this iced latte a must-try.

Why You'll Love This Blackberry Tea Iced Tea Latte

Get ready to meet your new favorite summer drink. This Blackberry Tea Iced Tea Latte blends fruity, creamy, and earthy flavors into one cool, satisfying glass.

It’s quick and easy. You can whip this up in 10 minutes with just a handful of ingredients. The longest part is letting the tea steep and cool, but that can be done ahead of time to make this drink almost instant.

Naturally budget-friendly. Skip the overpriced coffeehouse versions. This DIY version uses pantry staples and seasonal fruit, so you can enjoy it often without breaking the bank.

Deliciously customizable. Use black, green, or herbal tea. Swap dairy for almond or oat milk. Adjust the sweetness to your liking. You’re the barista here.

Visually stunning. With its ombré layers of deep purple and milky swirls, this latte looks as good as it tastes. Perfect for impressing guests—or just treating yourself.

Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this refreshing twist on a classic iced latte.

Ingredients Notes

This drink may taste like it came from a fancy café, but the ingredient list is short and sweet. A few quality components make all the difference.

Blackberries are the heart of the flavor here. Fresh ones offer the juiciest, most vibrant taste, but frozen berries work just fine in a pinch. They’re simmered into a simple syrup that adds fruity depth and natural sweetness to the drink.

Black tea provides the earthy backbone and caffeine kick. I like using strong varieties like English Breakfast or Assam. You want a bold tea that holds its own against the syrup and milk. Steep it longer than usual to intensify the flavor without bitterness.

Sugar, or your sweetener of choice, turns the blackberries into syrup. White sugar dissolves cleanly and enhances the berry flavor, but honey or maple syrup can work for a deeper twist.

Milk brings the latte element. I use whole milk for richness, but oat milk is a creamy, dairy-free alternative that’s just as satisfying. If you like it extra indulgent, a splash of half-and-half won’t hurt.

You’ll also need a fine mesh strainer to filter the syrup, a saucepan for simmering the berries, and a mason jar or tall glass for that Instagram-worthy finish.

How To Make This Blackberry Tea Iced Tea Latte

Making this iced latte at home is both fun and straightforward. Here’s how to bring it all together.

Start by making your blackberry syrup. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine your fresh blackberries and sugar with a splash of water. Stir and mash the berries as the mixture heats. After about 5–7 minutes, it should be thick and syrupy, with the berries mostly broken down.

Strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve into a small bowl or jar. Press gently to extract all the juicy goodness while leaving the seeds and pulp behind. Let the syrup cool completely—you can even refrigerate it for later.

While the syrup is cooling, brew your black tea. Boil water and steep the tea bags or loose-leaf tea for about 5 minutes—or longer if you like a stronger brew. Remove the bags or strain the tea, then let it cool to room temperature. For a speedier chill, pop it in the fridge or over ice.

Once everything is cooled, assemble your drink. Fill a tall glass with ice, then pour in 2–3 tablespoons of the blackberry syrup. Add your cooled tea next, filling the glass about ¾ of the way.

Top it off with your milk of choice, pouring slowly for that beautiful swirling effect. Give it a quick stir if desired, or leave the layers visible for a dramatic look.

Altogether, this latte takes under 15 minutes to prepare, especially if you make the syrup and tea ahead of time. The result? A refreshing drink that’s perfect for warm days, busy mornings, or cozy brunches.

Storage Options

If you’d like to enjoy this drink throughout the week, both the syrup and tea can be stored in advance.

Blackberry syrup will keep in the fridge for up to 1 week in an airtight jar. It may thicken slightly as it cools, so give it a stir or warm it gently before using.

Brewed tea stays fresh for 3–4 days in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Be sure to let it cool fully before storing to avoid any bitterness from over-steeping.

If you’re planning to drink this latte often, consider batch brewing both components. Then all you need is ice, milk, and a minute of your time to assemble a glass.

Reheating isn’t needed, since this is best enjoyed chilled. But if you're ever in the mood for a warm version, you can gently heat the tea and syrup together, then stir in warm milk for a cozy winter twist.

Variations and Substitutions

This iced tea latte is wonderfully versatile, and it welcomes all kinds of customizations.

Swap the tea base. While black tea is classic, green tea or even herbal blends like hibiscus or rooibos can bring new dimensions to the flavor. Just adjust steeping times accordingly.

Change the milk. Oat milk adds creaminess without dairy, while almond or coconut milk lend subtle flavor notes. For a dessert-like twist, try using vanilla almond milk or a splash of condensed milk.

Add citrus. A squeeze of lemon or orange juice brightens the blackberry flavor and balances the sweetness. Just a touch makes a noticeable difference.

Turn it into a frappe. Blend the syrup, tea, milk, and ice for a frozen, smoothie-like version that’s perfect for scorching afternoons.

Make it a cocktail. Add a shot of vodka, gin, or even bourbon for a fruity tea-based happy hour drink. Shake it all with ice and serve in a chilled glass.

Once you’ve mastered the base, the possibilities are endless. Don’t be afraid to mix it up and make this Blackberry Tea Iced Tea Latte your own.

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