Although I wouldn’t say I like hot hibiscus tea, I do enjoy it iced. I only enjoy this herbal tea in the spring and summer. Layering hibiscus tea with Lemonade is a fun way to enjoy it. This bright, sweet drink is a good choice for a hot day. The layered effect will impress everyone. This tea lemonade can also be made with fresh mint for an herbaceous flavor, although this step is optional. This easy recipe for hibiscus lemonade includes tips on how to layer it.

What is Hibiscus?

The tropical Hibiscus Sabdariffa is a native to Africa. It can be found in warm climates all over the globe. Sometimes, the hibiscus plant can also be called roselle. For a naturally caffeine-free infusion, the petals of the Hibiscus flower can be dried and brewed like tea. It produces a bright ruby-red liquid when steeped.

Hibiscus is often used in tea blends or other recipes that require a pink or red hue. It is a natural dye used to make red food and beverages.

When consuming Hibiscus, it is essential to use food-grade.

How to make Hibiscus Tea

This herbal infusion is hot or iced or cold brewed.

Begin by boiling 1 cup of water. You can steep Hibiscus at boiling water temperature (100degC/212degF) because it is an herbal (tisane) since it does not come from the actual tea plant (Camellia Sinensis).

Add 2 teaspoons of dried Hibiscus tea or 1 bag of hibiscus tea in a mug. Let steep for at least 3 minutes.

Enjoy the tea leaves and bags from your mug by removing them or straining them.

If desired, you can add sweetener. But, I do not recommend adding milk to Hibiscus.

Hibiscus is acidic so that milk can curdle. This reaction can also occur in non-dairy milk, so make sure to check before substituting.

How does Hibiscus tea taste?

Hibiscus tea tastes similar to cranberries and even pomegranates. It is tart and sour, and the tartness will increase as it steeps.

To offset the tart taste, I like Hibiscus with a little sweetness. I prefer hibiscus tea cold, and in this instance, with Lemonade.

How to make Layered Lemonade

Layered drinks are made by pouring the sugary liquid first. It will separate if the second liquid has less sugar or is not sweetened.

The fresh Lemonade is sweetened using simple syrup, and the unsweetened Hibiscus is slowly poured over it.

It is important to pour the unsweetened hibiscus Tea slowly over the sweetened Lemonade. If you pour too fast, the liquids could mix. When pouring tea, aim to use an ice cube.

Make sure to stir the lemonade layers before you take your first sip. This will ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed.

Easy Hibiscus Lemonade Recipe

This recipe makes one glass. To serve more, double or triple this recipe!

Here’s what you need:

Hibiscus Tea: 2 teaspoons dried Hibiscus (food-grade), loose leaf tea or 1 bag of hibiscus tea

1/4 cup boiling water

Optional: 1 sprig of fresh mint

Fresh Lemonade:

Take half of a lemon and mash it.

1/2 cup of cold water

1 tablespoon hot water

1 cup granulated sugar

Ice