Sweet Tea Recipe: Tequila Sunrise Mocktail That Looks Fancy but Is So Easy to Make

Ever see a drink in a tall glass with layers of color, fruit floating on top, and think, “Wow, that looks amazing... but probably way too much work”?

Myth busted.

We’ve started mixing up mocktails using our favorite Southern Breeze Sweet Tea, and let us tell you, they taste amazing. So good, we had to share this one with you.

This Tequila Sunrise Sweet Tea Mocktail looks like something you’d order at a fancy brunch spot, but it’s super easy to make at home. No alcohol, no complicated steps, just a refreshing drink that’s full of flavor and fun to serve.

Tequila Sunrise Sweet Tea Mocktail Recipe

What You’ll Need (for one pitcher)

• 2 tea bags Blood Orange – Bright and citrusy

• 2 tea bags Peach – Sweet and mellow

• 1 tea bag Sweet Cherry – Adds depth and color

• 1 tea bag Half & Half – Smooth balance

• Grenadine syrup – For that sunrise effect

• Club soda (optional) – Adds a fizzy kick

• Orange wheels & maraschino cherries – For garnish

• Ice – Lots of it

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brew the Tea
   Steep all tea bags in 4 cups of cold water in the refrigerator for 6–8 hours (or overnight) for the best flavor. Remove the tea bags and enjoy chilled.

2. Cool It Down
   Remove the tea bags and let the tea cool. Pop it in the fridge for at least an hour. Cold tea means better layering.

3. Build the Pitcher
   Fill a large pitcher with ice. Pour in the chilled tea.

4. Add Grenadine
   Drizzle grenadine slowly along the inside of the pitcher so it sinks and creates that beautiful sunrise look.

5. Optional Sparkle
   Add club soda if you want a bubbly twist. It’s a hit at parties.

6. Garnish & Serve
   Drop in orange wheels and cherries. Serve in tall glasses and watch the compliments roll in.
   

   

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Tea Mocktail

• It looks fancy but feels easy. No mixology skills needed.

• It’s beginner-friendly. If you can brew tea, you can make this.

• It’s full of flavor. Citrus, peach, cherry, and a splash of fizz.

• It’s flexible. Make it for one or a whole crowd.

• It’s alcohol-free. So everyone can enjoy it.

When to Make It

This mocktail works anytime you want something refreshing and fun. Think:

• Hosting friends for dinner

• Celebrating a milestone

• Bringing something unique to a potluck

• Adding a twist to your usual sweet tea routine

• Just treating yourself to something pretty and delicious

Tips for First-Time Tea Mixers

• Use filtered water – It makes the flavors cleaner

• Don’t rush the chill – Cold tea layers better and tastes smoother

• Sweeten smart – If you want extra sweetness, try honey or agave

• Keep it cold – Chill your pitcher, your glasses, even your garnishes

• Make it ahead – Brew and chill the tea early, then assemble when guests arrive

Fun Variations to Try

• Berry Sunrise – Swap peach for berry tea

• Tropical Twist – Add pineapple juice and coconut water

• Spicy Sunrise – A pinch of ginger or chili for heat

• Minty Fresh – Add fresh mint leaves for a cooling touch

Common Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Brew and chill the tea early. Add grenadine and garnishes just before serving.

Do I need to brew these flavors hot?

No. These flavors are made for cold brew. Steep the tea bags in cold water for 6 to 12 hours.

Can I make a single serving?

Yes. Just cut the recipe down and layer in a tall glass.

Make It with Southern Breeze Sweet Tea

Want to make this mocktail even easier? Use Southern Breeze Sweet Tea. It’s pre-sweetened, full of Southern flavor, and brews cold or hot with no sugar measuring and no mess.

Choose from fruity blends like Peach, Raspberry, Half & Half, or Original Sweet Tea. Whether you’re making a pitcher for guests or a glass for yourself, Southern Breeze makes it simple to mix, sip, and share.

Ready to try it? Grab your favorite flavor and make this Tequila Sunrise Sweet Tea Mocktail today.