Southern Sweet Iced Tea

Southern Sweet Iced Tea is a beloved, refreshing beverage from the American South, typically brewed from black tea and generously sweetened with sugar while still warm. It's traditionally served over ice in a tall glass, often garnished with a lemon wedge, and is a staple at family gatherings, barbecues, and restaurants throughout the region.

🍳 View the full Southern Sweet Iced Tea recipe →

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This drink is very high in carbohydrates, almost entirely from added sugar, and provides virtually no fat or protein. A standard 12-ounce serving can contain anywhere from 100 to 150 calories, depending on the recipe's sweetness level.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	90 kcal
Protein	0 g
Carbs	23 g
Fat	0 g
Fiber	0 g
Sugar	22 g
Sodium	10 mg
Potassium	30 mg
Manganese	0.1 mg
Fluoride	0.3 mg
Vitamin C	2 mg
Calcium	5 mg
Magnesium	2 mg
Copper	0.01 mg
Zinc	0.02 mg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, it's often referred to simply as 'tea' in the South, and ordering it unsweetened can be a notable request. Nutritionally, its high sugar content makes it a significant source of empty calories, contrasting with the potential antioxidant benefits of the black tea base.