Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea

Name: Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup water; 1 black tea bag (or 1 tsp loose-leaf black tea); Peel of 1/2 orange (reserve some for garnish); 1 cinnamon stick; 2 tsp brown sugar (adjust to taste); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup whole milk (or your choice of milk)

Published: January 12, 2026

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and only takes about 15 minutes from start to finish.
Flavorful Experience: The combination of orange and cinnamon creates a unique flavor that warms the soul.
Versatile Option: Enjoy it hot for a soothing drink or iced for a refreshing treat on warmer days.
Customizable Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness to your liking with brown sugar or other sweeteners.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for chilly evenings, brunches, or when you need a cozy pick-me-up.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing this Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea easier and more enjoyable. Below are some essential items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

saucepan
measuring cups
strainer
cup or mug

Importance of Each Tool

saucepan: Ideal for heating water and infusing flavors without boiling over.
measuring cups: Ensures accurate measurements for perfect results every time.
strainer: Helps separate the tea from the solid ingredients, ensuring a smooth drink.
cup or mug: A comfortable vessel to enjoy your warm beverage.

Ingredients

This Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea is a cozy drink made with black tea, fresh orange peel, cinnamon, vanilla, and milk. Perfect for relaxing or spicing up your tea routine!

For the Tea Base

1 cup water
1 black tea bag (or 1 tsp loose-leaf black tea)
orange peel of 1/2 orange (save some for garnish)
1 cinnamon stick

For Sweetening and Flavoring

2 tsp brown sugar (or to taste)
1 tsp vanilla extract

For Creaminess

1 cup whole milk (or your preferred milk)

For Garnish

orange peel twist or orange slice for garnish

How to Make Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea

Step 1: Create the Orange Cinnamon Infusion

Heat 1 cup of water in a small saucepan until it reaches a low boil.
Add the orange peel and cinnamon stick.
Simmer this mixture for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 2: Brew the Black Tea

Strain the orange cinnamon infusion into your cup.
Add in a black tea bag or loose-leaf black tea and steep it for 3-5 minutes.

Step 3: Sweeten and Flavor

While the tea is still hot, stir in the brown sugar and vanilla extract.
Mix well until the sugar completely dissolves.

Step 4: Add the Milk

Gently heat your choice of milk in another pan, making sure not to let it boil.
Pour in the hot milk slowly into your tea mixture. You can choose to froth the milk if desired.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finish off by adding a twist of orange peel or a slice of orange as garnish.
Now enjoy your warm, fragrant Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea!

Step 6: Iced Version (Optional)

For an iced version, brew the tea as instructed above but skip adding hot milk.
Once sweetened, add cold milk instead and let it cool down before pouring over ice. Enjoy!

How to Serve Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea

Serving Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea is all about enhancing the cozy experience. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing with friends, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

Enjoy it Warm

Warm Mug: Serve your tea in a favorite mug to keep it cozy and inviting.
Blanket and Book: Pair your warm tea with a soft blanket and a good book for the perfect relaxing afternoon.

Iced Variation

Refreshing Cooler: For a hot day, pour your brewed tea over ice for a chilled treat.
Garnish with Mint: Add fresh mint leaves for an extra refreshing twist.

Unique Garnishes

Orange Slice: A slice of fresh orange adds visual appeal and enhances the citrus flavor.
Whipped Cream: Top with a dollop of whipped cream for a creamy finish.

How to Perfect Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea

To create the ultimate Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea, consider these helpful tips for elevating your drink.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh orange peel and cinnamon sticks provide the best flavor compared to dried alternatives.
Monitor Brewing Time: Steeping the black tea for too long can make it bitter; stick to 3-5 minutes for optimal taste.
Adjust Sweetness: Start with 2 teaspoons of brown sugar and adjust according to your preference.
Experiment with Milks: Try different types of milk like almond or oat for unique flavors and creaminess.
Froth Your Milk: Frothing your milk before adding it can create a rich texture that enhances the overall drink experience.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea

Pairing side dishes with your Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea can elevate your snack time. Here are some delightful options to consider.

Cinnamon Buns: Soft, gooey buns topped with sweet icing complement the cinnamon notes in your tea.
Spiced Cookies: Gingerbread or snickerdoodle cookies bring warmth and spice that harmonize beautifully with the drink.
Fruit Salad: A fresh mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances out the warmth of the tea.
Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses pairs well, offering a savory contrast to the sweet flavors of the tea.
Toast with Jam: Spread orange marmalade on toasted bread for a delightful citrus pairing that echoes the tea’s flavors.
Nut Mix: A blend of spiced nuts provides a crunchy texture that complements the smoothness of the milk tea.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea turns out perfect, be mindful of these common mistakes.

Oversteeping the tea: Leaving the tea bag in for too long can make your drink bitter. Steep for 3-5 minutes for the best flavor.
Using boiling water: Pouring boiling water over the tea can scorch it. Allow the water to cool slightly before adding it to preserve its taste.
Not adjusting sweetness: Everyone has different tastes; don’t hesitate to adjust the brown sugar to your preference. Start with less and add more if needed.
Skipping milk frothing: Frothing your milk adds a delightful texture and creaminess. Consider using a frother or shaking it in a jar before adding.
Ignoring garnish options: A simple twist of orange peel or slice can elevate presentation and flavor. Don’t skip this final touch!
Neglecting iced variations: If you enjoy cold drinks, remember that this recipe can easily be adapted for iced versions. Just brew, sweeten, and chill!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea in an airtight container.
It will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea

Pour cooled tea into ice cube trays or freezer-safe containers.
It can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), pour tea into an oven-safe cup, and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe mug, heat on high for 30-60 seconds, checking often so it doesn’t boil over.
Stovetop: Heat gently in a saucepan over low-medium heat until warmed through; stir occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea.

Can I use other types of tea?

Yes, you can experiment with other black teas or even herbal teas for different flavors.

How do I make a dairy-free version?

Simply substitute whole milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any plant-based milk of your choice.

What if I don’t have fresh orange peel?

You can use a few drops of orange extract as an alternative if fresh peel is unavailable.

Can I sweeten my Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea differently?

Absolutely! Feel free to use honey, maple syrup, or any sweetener that suits your taste.

Is this recipe suitable for iced tea?

Yes! Brew the tea base hot, let it cool down, then pour it over ice with cold milk added for a refreshing drink.

How can I customize my Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea?

Consider adding other spices like nutmeg or cardamom for extra warmth and depth of flavor!

Final Thoughts

Orange Cinnamon Milk Tea is not just a cozy drink; it’s also versatile! You can enjoy it hot or iced and customize it with various flavors and garnishes. Try this delightful recipe today and make it your own by experimenting with sweetness or different types of milk!

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