This refreshing Summertime Cooler is the kind of old-fashioned drink that disappears fast at cookouts, porch parties, and hot afternoons with the kids running in and out of the house. It’s bright, lemony, lightly sweet, and the white grape juice gives it a smooth fruity flavor that makes this drink so refreshing. The combination of iced tea and citrus makes it extra refreshing without being overly sugary. This is one of those easy pitcher drinks you’ll find yourself making all summer long!
💕 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for BBQs, picnics, and pool days
- Easy to make ahead
- Refreshing but not overly sweet
- The white grape juice adds a unique twist
- Great for serving a crowd
If you love this recipe you'll also need to try my 🍋 Homemade Lemon Curd and 🍓 Strawberry Butter
Ingredients:
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Instructions:
- In a large pitcher, whisk together the sugar and lemon juice until the sugar begins dissolving.
2. Stir in the white grape juice.
3. Add the chilled unsweetened iced tea and cold water. Stir very well until fully combined.
4. Taste and adjust if desired. Add a little more water for a lighter drink or extra lemon juice for more tartness.
5. Serve over plenty of ice and garnish with lemon slices or fresh mint if desired.
Helpful Tips and Tricks:
- Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor here.
- Chill all ingredients before mixing so the drink stays cold longer.
- For a sparkling version, replace part of the water with lemon sparkling water right before serving.
- Make ice cubes from iced tea so the drink doesn’t get watered down.
Storage Tips:
Store leftovers in a covered pitcher in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir before serving since some settling may occur.
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Substitutions & Variations
- Swap white grape juice for white cranberry juice for a tangier flavor.
- Add sliced strawberries or peaches for a fruity summer twist.
- Use half sweet tea and half unsweet tea if your family likes sweeter drinks.
- Turn it into an Arnold Palmer-style drink by increasing the tea slightly.
FAQ's:
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Yes, but fresh lemon juice gives the brightest flavor.
What type of tea works best?
Classic black tea works wonderfully, but green tea is delicious too for a lighter flavor.
Can I make this less sweet?
Absolutely! Start with 1 cup sugar and adjust to taste.
Recent Recipes:
Summertime Cooler
Equipment
- Large Pitcher (2-gallon or larger)
- Citrus Juicer or Lemon Squeezer
- measuring cups
- Long-Handled Spoon
- Tea Pitcher or Large Heatproof Container
- fine mesh strainer Optional, but great for removing lemon seeds and pulp if you prefer a smoother drink.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup white grape juice
- 4 cups brewed unsweetened iced tea, chilled
- 4 cups cold water
- Ice, for serving
- Lemon slices and fresh mint, optional garnish
Instructions
- In a large pitcher, whisk together the sugar and lemon juice until the sugar begins dissolving.
- Stir in the white grape juice.
- Add the chilled unsweetened iced tea and cold water. Stir very well until fully combined.
- Taste and adjust if desired. Add a little more water for a lighter drink or extra lemon juice for more tartness.
- Serve over plenty of ice and garnish with lemon slices or fresh mint if desired.
Notes
- If serving at a party, add frozen lemon slices instead of regular ice to keep the drink cold without diluting it.
- This recipe doubles beautifully for large gatherings.
- A glass drink dispenser makes this extra pretty for summer entertaining.
