Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea

If you have a soft spot for comforting, cozy drinks with a zesty twist, this Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea Recipe is going to become your new favorite go-to. Imagine the warmth of spiced cinnamon embracing bright, citrusy orange notes, all harmonized with smooth black tea and creamy milk. It’s a lovely balance of sweet, spice, and creaminess that feels like a gentle hug in a cup, perfect any time you need a little pick-me-up or a relaxing moment to savor. Whether you enjoy it hot on a chilly day or iced when it’s warmer, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that each play an important role in building a flavorful and aromatic cup of tea. From the brightness of orange peel to the warm spice of cinnamon, every component adds depth and character to the final brew.

• 1 cup water: Serves as the base, perfect for infusing the flavors gently and extracting the tea’s essence.
• 1 black tea bag (or 1 tsp loose-leaf black tea): Provides that robust and slightly astringent flavor that balances the sweetness.
• Orange peel of 1/2 orange (save some for garnish): Adds zesty citrus notes and a refreshing aroma that lifts the entire drink.
• 1 cinnamon stick: Infuses warm, fragrant spice that complements the orange beautifully.
• 2 tsp brown sugar (or to taste): Brings natural sweetness with hints of caramel, enriching the tea’s flavor.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a subtle creamy, floral layer that enhances overall smoothness.
• 1 cup whole milk (or your preferred milk): Creates a silky texture and balances the spices, making the tea delightfully rich.
• Orange peel twist or orange slice for garnish: A pretty finishing touch that also adds a burst of fresh citrus scent.

How to Make Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea Recipe

Step 1: Make the Orange Cinnamon Infusion

Begin by heating 1 cup of water in a small saucepan just to a low boil. Toss in the orange peel and cinnamon stick, then let them simmer together for about 5 minutes. This step is where the bright and spicy flavors start to bloom and mingle into the water, creating a fragrant foundation for the tea.

Step 2: Brew the Black Tea

Next, strain the infused water into your favorite mug to remove the orange peel and cinnamon stick. Add your black tea bag or loose-leaf tea and steep for 3 to 5 minutes, depending on how strong you like your tea. This infuses bold tea flavor enriched by the citrus and spice notes you’ve already developed.

Step 3: Sweeten and Flavor

While the tea is still piping hot, stir in the brown sugar and vanilla extract until the sugar dissolves completely. The brown sugar melts smoothly, adding a lovely caramel sweetness that pairs perfectly with the warm vanilla aroma, complementing the orange and cinnamon beautifully.

Step 4: Add the Milk

Gently heat your milk—whole milk is ideal for creaminess, but any milk you prefer works great. Avoid boiling to keep the milk silky and smooth. Pour the warm milk into your tea, and if you want to go the extra mile, froth it for that creamy café-style finish.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top your Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea with a twist of orange peel or a slice of fresh orange. Not only does this elevate the look, but it also adds a burst of fresh citrus scent that enhances every sip. Now, relax and enjoy the cozy blend of flavors!

Step 6: Iced Variation

If you prefer a refreshing cold beverage, brew and sweeten your tea as above, then add cold milk instead of hot. Let the mixture cool before pouring it over a tall glass of ice cubes for a revitalizing twist on this comforting classic.

How to Serve Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing is a simple but delightful way to enhance your experience. A thin orange peel twist adds pops of color and that irresistible citrus fragrance, while an orange slice gives a fresh, visual appeal and a juicy bite if you want to nibble alongside your tea.

Side Dishes

This tea pairs wonderfully with light sweet treats like buttery shortbread cookies, cinnamon sugar biscotti, or a slice of spiced carrot cake. The warm spices and citrus in the tea make it a perfect companion for subtly sweet desserts that won’t overpower your palate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea in a clear glass mug to show off its creamy, golden hue. For a festive touch, sprinkle a little ground cinnamon on top or float a star anise for an exotic allure. You could even serve it with a cinnamon stick as a stirrer to keep things charming and interactive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you make more tea than needed, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the milk separate if possible, and add it fresh when reheating to preserve the creamy texture.

Freezing

While tea with milk is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the brewed citrus-cinnamon tea (without milk) in freezer-safe containers for up to a month. Thaw completely and add milk and sweeteners when ready to drink.

Reheating

To warm up leftover Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea, heat it gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Add extra fresh milk if the drink seems thickened from refrigeration, and give it a little froth for the best taste and texture.

FAQs

Can I use tea other than black tea in this Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea Recipe?

Absolutely! While black tea provides a robust base, you can experiment with green or rooibos tea for different flavor profiles. Just adjust steeping times to avoid bitterness.

Is it necessary to use fresh orange peel?

Fresh orange peel offers the brightest and freshest citrus notes, but you can substitute dried orange peel if needed. Just use a bit less since dried peels are more concentrated.

Can I make this tea vegan?

Yes! Replace whole milk with any plant-based milk such as almond, oat, or coconut milk. The flavor adjustments are minimal, and you’ll still enjoy the creamy texture and delicious taste.

How can I adjust the sweetness to my liking?

Start with 2 teaspoons of brown sugar as suggested, then add more or less depending on your preference. You can also try honey or maple syrup for natural alternatives.

What’s the best way to store brewed tea if I want to prepare in advance?

Keep brewed tea in the fridge, stored in a sealed container for up to two days. Add milk and sweeteners just before serving to keep flavors fresh.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a warm cup of Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea Recipe—it brightens the day with its citrus spark and comforts with cinnamon warmth. Whether you’re sipping it in the morning or winding down in the evening, this delightful drink brings a cozy, cheerful vibe to your routine. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your tea collection!

Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea Recipe

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This comforting Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea combines the aromatic warmth of cinnamon and bright citrus notes from fresh orange peel with robust black tea, sweetened with brown sugar and enriched with creamy milk. Perfect as a soothing morning or afternoon drink, this tea offers a delightful balance of flavors and can be enjoyed warm or iced for a refreshing twist.

• Author: Paula
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 1 serving
• Category: Beverage
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Tea Infusion

• 1 cup water
• Orange peel of 1/2 orange (save some for garnish)
• 1 cinnamon stick

Tea and Sweetening

• 1 black tea bag (or 1 tsp loose-leaf black tea)
• 2 tsp brown sugar (or to taste)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Milk and Garnish

• 1 cup whole milk (or your preferred milk)
• Orange peel twist or orange slice for garnish

Instructions

1. Make orange cinnamon infusion: Heat 1 cup of water to a low boil in a small saucepan. Add the orange peel and cinnamon stick and simmer gently for about 5 minutes to infuse the flavors thoroughly.
2. Brew the black tea: Strain the orange cinnamon infusion into a cup to remove the peel and cinnamon stick, then add a black tea bag or loose-leaf tea. Steep for 3-5 minutes to release the tea’s flavors.
3. Sweeten and flavor: While the tea is still hot, stir in the brown sugar and vanilla extract until the sugar dissolves completely, blending the flavors seamlessly.
4. Add milk: Warm the milk gently without boiling, then pour it into the tea mixture. For extra creaminess, froth the milk before adding if desired.
5. Garnish and serve: Add a twist of orange peel or a slice of orange for garnish. Serve the tea warm and enjoy its fragrant, comforting flavors.
6. Optional iced version: Brew and sweeten the tea as above, add cold milk, allow it to cool down, then pour over ice for a refreshing cold treat.

Notes

• Adjust the amount of brown sugar to your preferred sweetness level.
• Use different types of milk like almond, oat, or soy for a dairy-free version.
• Fresh orange peel is essential for bright citrus flavor; avoid the white pith to prevent bitterness.
• Frothing the milk adds a cafe-style touch but is optional.
• Store leftover brewed tea separately and add milk just before serving to preserve freshness.
• The iced variation is perfect for warmer days or when you prefer a chilled beverage.