If you’re craving a cozy, comforting drink that feels like a warm hug in a cup, this Sweet Cinnamon Milk Tea Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful blend of fragrant cinnamon, rich black tea, creamy milk, and a touch of natural sweetness from maple syrup, creating a soothing yet flavorful beverage that’s perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re winding down in the evening or need a little pick-me-up, this recipe is simple to make and endlessly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Sweet Cinnamon Milk Tea Recipe plays an important role, coming together to create a perfectly balanced flavor and texture. These simple staples work harmoniously to make an irresistible cup of tea that’s both aromatic and creamy.
- 2 cups water: The essential base for brewing the tea, water extracts all the rich flavors from the black tea and cinnamon sticks.
- 3 cinnamon sticks: Adding warming spice and a lovely aroma, cinnamon sticks infuse the water with a subtle, sweet heat.
- 3 black tea bags (or 1 tbsp loose-leaf black tea): Provides a robust, bold tea flavor that perfectly complements the cinnamon’s sweetness.
- 1½ cups milk (2% or whole milk recommended): Brings creamy richness to the tea, giving it a smooth and velvety finish.
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup: A natural sweetener that adds depth and a gentle caramel note, making the tea deliciously sweet without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle hint of vanilla, adding warmth and complexity.
How to Make Sweet Cinnamon Milk Tea Recipe
Step 1: Simmer Cinnamon Sticks in Water
Start by pouring 2 cups of water into a small saucepan and adding the 3 cinnamon sticks. Bring this to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let the cinnamon steep for about 5 minutes. This process releases the sweet and spicy oils from the cinnamon, creating a beautifully fragrant base for your tea.
Step 2: Brew the Black Tea
Once the cinnamon has infused the water, add your 3 black tea bags or 1 tablespoon of loose-leaf black tea. Let it steep for 3 to 5 minutes, depending on how strong you want your tea. Keep the heat low to avoid bitterness, then remove the tea bags or strain out the loose leaves.
Step 3: Add Milk and Sweeten
Slowly stir in 1½ cups of milk, choosing 2% or whole for that creamy, lush mouthfeel. Warm the mixture for a couple more minutes on low heat, but do not let it boil. Then, add 1 tablespoon of maple syrup and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir well to blend the flavors thoroughly, ensuring every sip is velvety with a touch of sweetness.
Step 4: Final Touch and Serve
Remove from heat and give your Sweet Cinnamon Milk Tea a final stir. Pour into your favorite mugs and get ready to enjoy this heartwarming treat. This recipe yields around two generous servings, perfect for sharing.
How to Serve Sweet Cinnamon Milk Tea Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation, try garnishing each cup with a cinnamon stick or a light sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top. A few delicate star anise pods also add a lovely aromatic twist and make your tea look incredibly inviting.
Side Dishes
This cinnamon milk tea pairs beautifully with a variety of snacks. Think buttery shortbread cookies, a slice of moist banana bread, or even some spiced nuts. These finger foods complement the tea’s warmth and sweetness perfectly, making your teatime feel extra special.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Sweet Cinnamon Milk Tea Recipe in clear glass mugs to showcase its creamy color. You could also froth a little extra milk on top for a latte-style finish, or drizzle some maple syrup around the cup’s rim for an extra touch of indulgence that will impress your friends or family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftover Sweet Cinnamon Milk Tea, simply cool it to room temperature and transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Give it a good stir before reheating to redistribute the flavors evenly.
Freezing
Freezing this milk tea is not recommended as the texture of the milk can change after thawing, leading to separation. For the best taste and consistency, it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for short periods.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your stored tea, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat until warm. Avoid boiling as this can cause the milk to curdle. Alternatively, use a microwave and heat in short bursts, stirring often to maintain a smooth texture.
FAQs
Can I use plant-based milk for this Sweet Cinnamon Milk Tea Recipe?
Absolutely! Almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk can all be great alternatives, although the creaminess and flavor may differ slightly from dairy milk. Choose the one you like best for a dairy-free version.
How strong should I brew the black tea?
Steeping the black tea for about 3 to 5 minutes should give you a robust yet smooth base. If you prefer a stronger flavor, lean towards 5 minutes, but be careful not to over-steep to prevent bitterness.
Can I adjust the sweetness?
Definitely! The 1 tablespoon of maple syrup is a guideline, but feel free to add more or less according to your taste preferences. You can also experiment with honey or other natural sweeteners.
Is it possible to make this tea iced?
Yes! After brewing and preparing the tea, allow it to cool completely, then pour over ice cubes. You might want to slightly increase the sweetness to balance the cold temperature.
What type of black tea works best?
Traditional black teas like Assam, Ceylon, or English Breakfast are perfect for this recipe. They provide a bold flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon and milk.
Final Thoughts
This Sweet Cinnamon Milk Tea Recipe is a beautiful way to bring warmth and comfort into your day with just a few simple ingredients. It’s easy to prepare, full of cozy flavors, and incredibly satisfying. I truly hope you give this recipe a try and discover just how wonderfully soothing and delicious a cup of cinnamon-spiced milk tea can be.
Print
Sweet Cinnamon Milk Tea Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 to 2 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sweet Cinnamon Milk Tea is a comforting and aromatic beverage combining bold black tea with warm cinnamon sticks, creamy milk, and a hint of natural sweetness from maple syrup and vanilla. Perfect for cozy mornings or relaxing afternoons, this soothing tea blend offers a delightful balance of spice and creaminess.
Ingredients
Tea Base
- 2 cups water
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 3 black tea bags (or 1 tbsp loose-leaf black tea)
Creamy Mixture
- 1½ cups milk (2% or whole milk recommended)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Boil Water with Cinnamon: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water and 3 cinnamon sticks to a boil over medium heat. Boil for about 2 minutes to infuse the water with warm cinnamon flavor.
- Steep Tea: Remove the saucepan from heat and add 3 black tea bags or 1 tablespoon of loose-leaf black tea. Let the tea steep for 3 to 5 minutes, depending on your desired strength.
- Add Milk and Sweeteners: Remove the tea bags or strain loose leaves, then add 1½ cups of milk, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the cinnamon tea base. Return to low heat and warm gently, ensuring the milk does not boil, for about 2 minutes.
- Mix and Serve: Stir the tea mixture well until everything is combined and heated through. Pour into cups and enjoy your sweet cinnamon milk tea warm.
Notes
- Use full-fat or 2% milk for a creamier texture; plant-based milk alternatives can be used but might alter flavor slightly.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup as per taste.
- For a stronger cinnamon flavor, gently crack cinnamon sticks before boiling.
- Steeping time can be modified to suit your tea strength preference.
- This recipe works well served iced by cooling and pouring over ice.
