Save Pin
This Vanilla Cinnamon Milk Tea is like a hug in a mug. Think soft vanilla dancing together with a cozy burst of cinnamon. It's the kind of thing you want to sip on while curled under a blanket or poured over ice for a smooth, cool vibe. You get to pick your own milk and choose just how sweet you want it. It's a feel-good treat any time of year.
I first whipped this up on a chilly day after my kids finished sledding. It quickly turned into our go-to when we’re in the mood to spoil ourselves a little.
Dreamy Ingredients
- Filtered water: gives you a crisp, fresh base for flavor
- Your favorite milk: pick dairy or a plant milk—oat is extra creamy and delicious
- Cinnamon (sticks or ground): sticks make it smell super cozy, ground cinnamon gives a quick, bold punch
- Vanilla (bean or extract): whole beans smell incredible, extract is quick and super easy
- Optional star anise: drops in a soft licorice warmth for a fancier feel
- Black tea (bags or loose): also optional, but adds depth to your drink
- Sweetener (honey or any kind): go with local honey for a hint of warmth or use whatever sweetener you like, just taste as you go
Easy How-To Steps
- Add Your Sweetener & Serve:
- Drop in honey or any sweet stuff you like, give it a swirl and see if the flavor hits the spot. Try it hot for peak comfort or let it cool and pour over ice for a refreshing sip.
- Time to Strain and Mix:
- Strain the vanilla and cinnamon water into your pot of warm milk. Catch any bits and leaves so it’s nice and smooth.
- Warm Your Milk:
- Gently warm the milk in another pan just until you see steam—don’t let it boil. Too hot and you might wind up with weird milk bits.
- Make Your Tea:
- If you want tea, drop your loose leaves or bags into the pot for three to five minutes depending on how strong you want it. Take the tea out so it doesn’t taste bitter.
- Let Spices Steep:
- Let cinnamon and vanilla (with star anise if you want) hang out in the hot water for about ten minutes. This brings out all the flavor magic.
- Let Spices In:
- If you’ve got cinnamon sticks and vanilla beans, toss them in, cover the pot, and turn off the heat. Add star anise for more depth. Using ground spices or extract? Just stir them in and move on.
- Start Boiling Water:
- Pour water into a saucepan and bring it to a gentle bubble so it’s ready for your spices and tea leaves.
Save Pin
The cinnamon’s really the star here. I always hunt down my fanciest cinnamon sticks for this. The smell alone zaps me back to my grandma’s kitchen when we’d crowd the table for seconds of spicy drinks every winter.
Storing It
Leftovers? Pop them in the fridge for up to two days. Let it cool off first, then pour into a jar or bottle with a lid. When it’s time, just give it a shake and warm it gently on the stove—or pour it over ice if you want. I make extra on purpose for cold drinks the next day.
Swaps and Options
No vanilla beans? Good vanilla extract totally works. Try a pinch of cardamom for extra spice or use a clove instead of star anise. Coconut sugar sweetens things up nicely. Use whatever black tea—or even an herbal—if you want no caffeine. You can tweak just about anything.
Save Pin
Tasty Ways to Serve
Sprinkle a little ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top of each cup for a cozy kick. Sipping hot? It goes great with almond or shortbread cookies. Over ice, it’s my go-to for a midday chill. When I really want to splurge, I’ll top it with foamy milk or even whipped cream.
Common Questions
- → Can ground cinnamon swap for cinnamon sticks?
Yep, ground cinnamon does the trick. Just mix it straight into your water and you’ll still get those cozy flavors.
- → Which non-dairy milk tastes best?
Oat or almond milk pair great, staying creamy and letting the spices shine.
- → How do I boost the flavor?
Pop in some nutmeg or cardamom, or drizzle in maple syrup for a fun twist.
- → Which sweeteners can go in?
Add what you like—sugar, honey, agave, or your usual sugar swap all work. Make it taste good for you.
- → Can this be chilled?
Totally, just cool it down, toss in ice, and sip away for a chill refresh.
- → How long do I steep the tea?
Let it soak 3–5 minutes, depending how strong you like it. Fine-tune ‘til it tastes just right for you.