LeFlore Porch Tea is inspired by my grandmother’s legendary sweet tea.

When I was growing up, my grandmother was known for her tea. Not just in the family, but in the way people become known for something they do with love and consistency. During the summer months, I would watch her make pitcher after pitcher. My father was famous for walking into her house and heading straight to the refrigerator before doing much of anything else. That’s how good the tea was.

This recipe is not her recipe.

Her sweet tea belongs to her.

LeFlore Porch Tea is my tribute to the memories that surrounded it—the conversations, the laughter, the summer afternoons, and the way hospitality was served one glass at a time.

I’ve added my own signature through floral and botanical flavors. Peaches lead the way, followed by hibiscus for color and depth, with delicate floral notes that reflect my love of flowers, gathering, and intentional hospitality.

It is where my grandmother’s Southern tradition meets my own storytelling.

Every glass is a reminder that some recipes are inherited, while others are inspired.

This one is both.

LeFlore Porch Tea is an homage to Emma’s sweet tea—reimagined through the lens of Floral & Spice.

LeFlore Porch Tea
A floral peach sweet tea inspired by Emma’s legendary summer sweet tea. Brewed with black tea, peaches, hibiscus, and delicate botanical notes, then served ice-cold in a mason jar. A tribute to Southern hospitality, family tradition, and the women who taught us how to welcome people home.

Ingredients

  • 4–5 black tea bags (strong brew)

  • 4 cups hot water

  • 2 ripe peaches, sliced (or 3/4 cup peach syrup)

  • 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)

  • 1 cup water (for peach syrup)

  • 2 cups cold water

  • 1–2 tsp dried hibiscus (optional but recommended)

  • Optional: splash of rose water or orange blossom water

  • Ice

  • Peach slices for serving

Peach Syrup (the heart of it)

In a small pot, combine:

  • sliced peaches

  • 1/2 cup sugar

  • 1 cup water

Simmer on low heat for 10–15 minutes until peaches soften and syrup deepens in color.
Lightly mash the peaches. Strain if you want it smooth or leave it rustic if you like texture.

Tea Base

Steep black tea bags in 4 cups hot water for 7–10 minutes.
Add dried hibiscus while steeping if using.
Remove tea bags.

Bring it together

While tea is still warm, stir in:

  • peach syrup

  • remaining sugar (if needed)

Add 2 cups cold water to balance and cool.

Finish with:

  • optional splash of rose water or orange blossom water (just a whisper, not perfume)

To Serve (The Porch Way)

Fill a handled mason jar with ice.
Pour tea slowly over the ice until full.
Add peach slices.

Serve cold.
Serve generous.
Serve like somebody is waiting on the porch.

Note to who receives this recipe

This tea was never meant to be rushed.
It was made for sitting down, staying awhile, and listening longer than you speak.

If you are serving it, you are continuing the porch.