Vanilla Cinnamon Milk Tea
Vanilla Cinnamon Milk Tea is a comforting and aromatic beverage that combines the boldness of black tea with the warm spice of cinnamon and the sweet smoothness of vanilla. This cozy drink is easy to prepare and perfect for chilly mornings, quiet evenings, or anytime you want something soothing and flavorful. Whether served hot or iced, it’s a simple yet elegant twist on classic milk tea that’s sure to become a favorite. Plus, it’s highly customizable with different types of tea, milk, or sweeteners to suit your taste.
Equipment
- Small saucepan
- Spoon or whisk
- Fine mesh strainer (if using loose tea or ground spices)
- Mugs or tea cups
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1–2 black tea bags (or 1 tbsp loose leaf)
- ¾ cup milk (dairy or plant-based like oat, almond, soy)
- 1 cinnamon stick or ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1–2 tsp honey, maple syrup, or sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Boil the WaterIn a small saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil over medium heat.
- Add Tea and CinnamonOnce boiling, reduce the heat slightly and add 1–2 black tea bags (or 1 tablespoon of loose black tea) along with 1 cinnamon stick or ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon.
- Steep the TeaLet the tea and cinnamon steep together for about 5 minutes to infuse flavor.
- Add MilkStir in ¾ cup of your preferred milk (dairy or plant-based). Simmer gently on low heat for 3–5 more minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
- Flavor with Vanilla and SweetenerRemove the saucepan from heat. Stir in ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract and your sweetener of choice (1–2 teaspoons of honey, maple syrup, or sugar).
- Strain and ServeRemove the tea bags and cinnamon stick. Strain the tea if needed to remove any loose spices or leaves. Pour into mugs and serve warm.
Notes
- Tea Strength: For a stronger tea flavor, use two tea bags or steep longer. For a milder version, stick with one bag and reduce steeping time.
- Milk Options: This recipe works well with whole milk, oat milk, almond milk, or soy milk. Creamier milks create a richer drink.
- Sweeteners: Adjust the sweetness to your taste or skip it entirely. Honey and maple syrup add natural depth, while white or brown sugar keep it classic.
- Cinnamon Choices: A cinnamon stick offers subtle spice and is easy to remove. Ground cinnamon brings a bolder flavor but may need straining.
- Vanilla Tip: Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor. You can also use vanilla bean paste or a few drops of vanilla syrup.
- Iced Option: Let the tea cool, then pour over ice for a refreshing twist. Add cold milk and sweetener after chilling.
- Make It Caffeine-Free: Swap black tea for rooibos or herbal tea if you’re avoiding caffeine.