Go Back
Blackberry Basil Iced Tea – Fresh, Fruity & Made in the Instant Pot

Refreshing Instant Pot Blackberry Iced Tea with Basil

Czarryy
This vibrant iced tea blends the bold flavor of black tea with juicy blackberries, fresh basil, and a touch of honey. Made effortlessly in the Instant Pot®, it’s naturally sweetened and perfect for warm afternoons.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Pressure Time 10 minutes
Course Beverage
Cuisine American, Summer Drink
Servings 6
Calories 90 kcal

Equipment

  • Instant Pot® or other electric pressure cooker
  • Saucepan
  • Fine mesh strainer
  • Large heatproof pitcher

Ingredients
  

  • 8 cups water
  • 6 black tea bags (organic preferred, tags removed)
  • 1½ cups fresh blackberries, divided
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
  • ½ cup honey (local if possible)
  • ½ cup water
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Optional Garnish:

  • Extra fresh blackberries
  • Fresh basil sprigs

Instructions
 

  • Brew the tea in the Instant Pot®:
    Add 8 cups of water, tea bags, and ½ cup of the blackberries to the pot. Secure the lid, set the vent to Sealing, and select Manual (High Pressure) for 5 minutes.
  • Make the blackberry-basil syrup:
    While the tea brews, combine the remaining blackberries, basil, honey, and ½ cup water in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently, pressing gently on the berries to release their juices. Cook for 4–5 minutes, until the honey has fully dissolved and the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat.
  • Release pressure:
    When the cooking cycle is done, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining steam.
  • Strain and sweeten:
    Strain the hot tea through a fine mesh sieve into a large heatproof pitcher. Stir in the prepared blackberry-basil syrup to taste, along with lemon juice.
  • Serve:
    Pour over ice and garnish with fresh blackberries and basil sprigs. Serve immediately.

Notes

Pro Tips & Variations:
  • Prevent bitterness: Add a small pinch of baking soda to the tea before brewing and remove tea bags as soon as cooking is complete.
  • Adjust sweetness: Add more or less honey depending on preference, or replace with agave for a vegan option.
  • Berry swaps: Try raspberries or blueberries in place of blackberries for a different flavor profile.
  • Make ahead: Brew and refrigerate for up to 3 days—serve over fresh ice for the best taste.
Keyword basil iced tea, blackberry tea, Holiday drink recipe, honey-sweetened tea, Instant Pot iced tea, summer drink recipe