Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea – The Perfect Cozy Treat! (Hot or Iced)

Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea is a delightful blend of citrusy brightness and warm spice, making it the perfect beverage for any season. Whether enjoyed steaming hot on a chilly evening or served iced during a summer afternoon, this aromatic drink provides comfort and refreshment in every sip.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea combines the rich, creamy texture of milk tea with the uplifting essence of orange and the cozy depth of cinnamon. It’s easy to prepare, adaptable for different dietary needs, and perfect for both relaxing alone or serving to guests. Its balanced flavor profile is ideal for those who love a hint of spice and a burst of citrus in their tea.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Black tea (such as Assam or Ceylon)
• Fresh orange peel or dried orange slices
• Cinnamon stick
• Milk (dairy or plant-based)
• Honey or sweetener of choice
• Water
• Ice (if serving cold)

directions

1. Bring water to a boil in a saucepan.
2. Add the black tea, orange peel, and cinnamon stick. Let it steep for 5–7 minutes.
3. Remove the tea bags or strain the loose tea and spices.
4. Stir in honey or sweetener while the tea is still warm.
5. Add milk and mix well.
6. For hot tea, pour into mugs and serve immediately.
7. For iced tea, let the mixture cool, then pour over ice in glasses.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Use green tea instead of black tea for a lighter version.
• Add a splash of vanilla extract for a creamier twist.
• Substitute maple syrup for honey for a different flavor dimension.
• For a stronger citrus flavor, add a few drops of orange extract.

storage/reheating

Store any leftover milk tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. For iced tea, shake or stir before serving as ingredients may settle.

FAQs

What type of tea works best for this recipe?

Black teas like Assam or Ceylon work best because of their bold flavor that pairs well with milk and spices.

Can I use orange juice instead of orange peel?

Orange juice can be used, but it may overpower the tea. Orange peel offers a more subtle and fragrant citrus note.

Is this drink caffeinated?

Yes, black tea contains caffeine. For a caffeine-free version, use a rooibos or herbal tea base.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes, simply use a plant-based milk such as almond, oat, or soy, and opt for a vegan sweetener like maple syrup or agave.

What’s the best sweetener for this milk tea?

Honey complements the orange and cinnamon well, but any sweetener like sugar, agave, or stevia can be used based on preference.

Can I make a large batch for a party?

Absolutely. Multiply the ingredients based on the number of servings and keep it warm in a slow cooker or serve chilled from a pitcher.

How do I avoid curdling when using citrus and milk together?

Use whole milk or plant-based alternatives that are less prone to curdling, and avoid boiling the mixture after adding the milk.

What’s the difference between using fresh and dried orange peel?

Fresh peel offers brighter, more aromatic oils, while dried peel provides a more concentrated citrus flavor and is easier to store.

Can I use ground cinnamon instead of a cinnamon stick?

Yes, use 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon per serving, though it may leave sediment in the drink.

Is it better hot or iced?

It depends on preference. Hot is soothing and perfect for colder days, while iced is refreshing and ideal for warm weather.

Conclusion

Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea is a versatile and flavorful beverage that brings together the richness of tea and milk with the warmth of cinnamon and the brightness of orange. Whether served hot or iced, it’s a cozy, fragrant treat that can be customized to suit any taste or season. Try it once, and it may just become your new favorite way to enjoy tea.

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