Step 1

Place 8 cups of water in a large saucepan over high heat. Bring to a boil.

Step 2

Remove the saucepan from heat and add the tea bags. Cover and allow the tea to steep for 5 to 6 minutes. (Steep longer for stronger tea.)

Step 3

Meanwhile, add an additional 8 cups of water to a gallon-sized pitcher.

Step 4

Remove tea bags from saucepot, gently squeezing to remove the excess tea. Discard the tea bags.

Step 5

To the saucepan, add the sweetener and stir until completely blended.

Step 6

Pour the tea into the gallon-sized pitcher with the water. Stir to combine.

Step 7

Cover the pitcher and refrigerate. Best if refrigerated overnight.