Welcome to a cozy corner of tea bliss with Homemade Vanilla Cinnamon Milk Tea. This delightful drink combines the comforting flavors of vanilla and cinnamon with creamy milk for a treat that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Whether you’re enjoying a hot, soothing cup on a lazy morning or craving an iced pick-me-up during a busy day, this recipe is your perfect solution.
INGREDIENTS
For the best flavor, use high-quality organic cinnamon sticks and whole vanilla beans. If you’re short on time, ground cinnamon and vanilla extract work well too.
I usually make this with black tea for an extra energy boost, but you can skip the black tea if you prefer a caffeine-free version.
Here’s what you’ll need to make 4 cups (32 oz) of Vanilla Cinnamon Milk Tea:
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 4 cinnamon sticks (or 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon)
- 4 vanilla beans, split and scraped (or 4 teaspoons vanilla extract)
- 2 star anises (optional)
- 4 teaspoons loose-leaf black tea or 4 black tea bags (optional)
- Honey or sweetener of your choice, to taste
HOW TO MAKE VANILLA CINNAMON MILK TEA
Here’s how to make 4 cups (32 oz) of Vanilla Cinnamon Milk Tea:
- Boil Water: Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a small pot.
- Add Cinnamon & Vanilla: If using cinnamon sticks and vanilla beans, add them to the pot, then turn off the heat and cover with a lid. If you’re adding star anise, include it now. For ground cinnamon and vanilla extract, simply add them directly to the pot (skip the steeping step).
- Steep: Let the mixture steep for about 10 minutes.
- Add Tea (optional): If using black tea, add it now and brew for 3-5 minutes, depending on your preferred strength.
- Heat Milk: Warm 2 cups of milk (dairy or plant-based) in a separate pot or microwave until it’s hot but not boiling.
- Strain & Combine: Strain the cinnamon and vanilla infusion into the warm milk, mixing them together.
- Sweeten (optional): Add your preferred sweetener to taste and stir until it’s dissolved.
- Serve: Pour the Vanilla Cinnamon Milk Tea into your favorite cups and enjoy!
ICED VANILLA CINNAMON MILK TEA
To make iced Vanilla Cinnamon Milk Tea, start by brewing the tea with vanilla and cinnamon as per the recipe. Let the tea cool to room temperature, then refrigerate it until thoroughly chilled. To serve, fill a glass with ice cubes and pour the chilled tea over them. For an extra touch, add a splash of milk or a cinnamon stick as a garnish. Enjoy your refreshing iced Vanilla Cinnamon Milk Tea!
TIPS & VARIATIONS
- Experiment with Tea Bases: Swap black tea for green tea or rooibos to explore different flavor profiles. Each tea type adds its own unique touch to the vanilla and cinnamon.
- Add a Creamy Topper: For an indulgent twist, top your tea with a dollop of whipped cream or a float of frothed milk.
- Incorporate Other Spices: Boost the flavor complexity by adding cardamom, nutmeg, or cloves alongside the cinnamon for a warming, spiced tea ideal for colder days.
- Make a Vegan Version: Use plant-based milk like almond, oat, or coconut, and choose a vegan sweetener such as maple syrup or agave nectar to keep the tea creamy and sweet while catering to vegan preferences.
WHY YOU SHOULD TRY THIS RECIPE
- Comfort in a Cup: Vanilla and cinnamon create a soothing, comforting drink ideal for relaxing or warming up.
- Aromatic Delight: Enjoy the fragrant, spicy aroma that enhances your mood and refreshes your senses with every sip.
- Easy and Customizable: This simple recipe allows you to adjust sweetness and spice levels to match your taste preferences.
- Health Benefits: Cinnamon’s anti-inflammatory properties and vanilla’s antioxidants make this tea both delicious and healthful.
- Versatile Beverage: Serve it hot for cozy moments or iced for a refreshing treat, making it a delightful choice year-round.
CONCLUSION
Homemade vanilla cinnamon milk tea is a delightful beverage that offers a comforting and satisfying experience. Whether you prefer it hot or iced, this versatile drink provides a perfect blend of flavors that are both soothing and invigorating. The creamy texture of the milk, the warmth of the cinnamon, and the subtle sweetness of the vanilla create a harmonious taste that is sure to please. Whether you’re seeking a cozy treat on a chilly day or a refreshing pick-me-up on a hot afternoon, homemade vanilla cinnamon milk tea is a wonderful choice to enjoy and savor.
