Hey, Reader!

I remember when I thought tea was just for afternoon pick-me-ups and parties. Now I love bringing its cozy flavor and community-vibe to cocktails!

Tea time can truly be anytime thanks to a tasty variety of hot and cold variations on the steeped sipper. The best part is that these drinks are easy to customize — swap out the sweetener, switch out the type of tea, add a complementary flavor — so that you're left with something you'll love.

Whether you're already a tea lover or a bit ten-tea-tive, these recipes are sure to fill your cup:

arnold palmer

The classic combo of lemonade + iced tea is a summer icon. You can tweak the recipe with your favorite type of tea, preferred sweetness level, additional flavors or even a little alcohol to create a spiked Arnold Palmer.

thai iced tea

Cool down with a Thai iced tea, a sweet, silky drink that pairs well with spicy dishes. Sip one in the afternoon for a caffeine boost or kick off happy hour by adding vodka or rum.

hot toddy with tea

This sweet and spicy drink is probably closest to what you picture when you hear 'cup of tea,' but don't let that fool you! This cozy beverage is packed with flavor to help when you're under the weather or simply when you want something to warm you up.

sweet tea vodka

In the South, sweet iced tea is a staple — it makes sense that sweet tea vodka is a bar cart staple, too! Sip it straight or use it for a touch of sweet tea flavor in all kinds of drinks, from the vodka lemonade to the hot toddy.

cold brew ice tea

Cold brewing results in a lighter, less bitter tea — you can use your favorite teas and sweeteners so it's just how you like it. Don't forget the tea ice cubes to stop your drink from getting watered down!

Tea shots — which actually don't contain any tea at all — are a fun par-tea drink with flavors reminiscent of their namesake. Try either orange, white or green tea shots in shot glasses or as cocktails in martini glasses.

I hope you find these recipes bring you tea-riffic (I promise, that was the last one) enjoyment. Let me know what you think by hitting 'reply' or send me a note on Instagram.

Now, go put the kettle on!

Susannah