Fruit tea can be served warm or chilled, but the ingredients and package directions matter: some fruit blends are herbal infusions, while other teas may combine fruit flavor with true tea leaves.
Brew the blend as directed before deciding how to serve it. If you pour it over ice and want a more pronounced flavor, test a slightly stronger brew and adjust to taste; do not assume every blend needs the same ratio or steep.
For a hot cup
Use the water amount and steeping time printed for the specific product. A covered cup can help keep the drink warm while it brews. Taste before adding sweetener, since different fruit blends can have different levels of tartness and aroma.
Apple, rosehip, and forest-fruit flavors each make a different cup; treat the package ingredients and tasting notes as the guide to that particular blend.
For a chilled glass
Brew according to the package, let the infusion cool, and refrigerate it in a clean covered container if you are not serving it right away. You can also pour a freshly brewed cup over ice. Ice dilutes the drink as it melts, so adjust the brew strength gradually if you want more flavor in the finished glass.
Fruit slices or mint can be optional garnishes, but try the tea on its own first so you know whether an addition improves the taste for you.
Adjust the cup to your taste
Try the tea plain first. If you prefer it sweeter, add a small amount and stir while the drink is warm, or use a sweetener that dissolves easily in a cold drink. Citrus or fresh herbs are optional, not required.
If a fruit tea tastes weak, check whether you used the right amount of water and gave it the recommended time before changing the recipe.
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