Homemade Vanilla Cinnamon Milk Tea – Sip & Relax! (Hot or Iced)

Why You’ll Love Homemade Vanilla Cinnamon Milk Tea – Sip & Relax! (Hot or Iced) Recipe

This recipe brings together the bold richness of black tea with the warmth of cinnamon and the sweet aroma of vanilla, creating a drink that’s both soothing and satisfying. It’s easy to customize, requires simple pantry staples, and is perfect for all seasons. Make it hot for a cozy winter treat or serve it over ice as a refreshing summer beverage.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Black tea bags (or loose-leaf black tea)

• Cinnamon sticks or ground cinnamon

• Vanilla extract

• Milk of your choice (dairy or plant-based)

• Water

• Sweetener (such as honey, sugar, or maple syrup, optional)

Directions

1. In a small saucepan, bring water to a gentle boil.

2. Add the cinnamon stick (or ground cinnamon) and black tea bags. Let steep for 5–7 minutes.

3. Remove the tea bags and cinnamon stick.

4. Stir in vanilla extract and sweetener if using.

5. Add milk and heat gently until warm (do not boil).

6. For hot milk tea: pour into a mug and enjoy warm.

7. For iced milk tea: let the mixture cool, then pour over ice in a tall glass.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2 servings.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook/Steep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Spiced Chai Twist: Add cloves, cardamom, and ginger for a chai-inspired version.

• Non-Dairy Option: Use almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.

• Frothy Finish: Use a milk frother or blender to add a foamy top.

• Sweetener Swap: Try brown sugar, agave, or stevia to adjust sweetness to your liking.

• Stronger Tea Flavor: Use two tea bags per serving or steep longer for a bolder taste.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover milk tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave until just hot—avoid boiling to preserve the flavors. For iced tea, simply pour chilled milk tea over fresh ice before serving.

FAQs

What kind of tea works best for this recipe?

Black tea, such as English Breakfast or Assam, works best due to its robust flavor that complements the vanilla and cinnamon.

Can I use ground cinnamon instead of a cinnamon stick?

Yes, you can substitute ground cinnamon. Start with ¼ teaspoon and adjust to taste.

Is it possible to make this tea ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare and refrigerate it, then reheat or serve cold as needed.

Can I skip the sweetener?

Yes, the recipe is flexible. You can omit sweeteners or adjust the amount based on your preference.

What type of milk works best?

Whole milk offers the creamiest texture, but almond, oat, or soy milk also work well.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely. Just double all the ingredients and adjust steeping time slightly to maintain flavor balance.

How long should I steep the tea?

Steep for 5 to 7 minutes for the best flavor without bitterness.

Will the vanilla flavor be strong?

The vanilla adds a gentle aroma and taste. You can increase the amount for a more pronounced flavor.

Can I add other spices?

Yes, spices like nutmeg, cardamom, or cloves make great additions for a more complex taste.

Is this drink caffeinated?

Yes, black tea contains caffeine. For a caffeine-free version, use a decaf black tea.

Conclusion

Homemade Vanilla Cinnamon Milk Tea is a delightful blend of warmth and sweetness that’s easy to make and enjoy any time of year. Whether you prefer it steaming hot or chilled over ice, this comforting tea is a simple yet satisfying treat that you’ll want to come back to again and again.