Description
Wrap your hands around a mug of this comforting Sweet and Spicy Vanilla Cinnamon Milk Tea—the perfect blend of creamy vanilla sweetness and warm, spicy cinnamon. With easy-to-find ingredients and endless customization options, this cozy drink will be your favorite winter companion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups water: Base for steeping the spices and tea.
- 2 cups milk: Dairy or plant-based (almond, oat, or coconut milk).
- 4 cinnamon sticks or 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: For a warm, spicy kick.
- 4 vanilla beans, split and scraped or 4 teaspoons vanilla extract: Sweet, floral notes.
- 2 star anises (optional): Adds a licorice-like depth.
- 4 teaspoons loose-leaf black tea or 4 black tea bags (optional): For a bold, caffeinated kick.
- Honey, sugar, or sweetener of choice: Adjust to your desired sweetness level.
Instructions
- Boil the Water and Spices:
- Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
- Add cinnamon sticks (or ground cinnamon), vanilla beans (or vanilla extract), and optional star anise. Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes.
- Add Milk and Sweetener:
- Stir in 2 cups of milk. For plant-based options, almond and oat milk provide excellent creaminess.
- Sweeten with honey, sugar, or your preferred alternative, starting with 1 tablespoon and adjusting to taste.
- Optional Tea Infusion:
- Add 4 teaspoons loose-leaf black tea or 4 tea bags if you’d like a caffeinated version. Simmer for 2–3 minutes. Skip this step for a caffeine-free drink.
- Strain and Serve:
- Remove the saucepan from heat. Strain the mixture using a fine-mesh sieve to remove the spices and tea leaves.
- Pour the milk tea into mugs and garnish with a cinnamon stick or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon for an elegant finish.
Notes
- Keep Ingredients Fresh: Fresh vanilla beans and cinnamon sticks deliver the best aroma and flavor.
- Make It Frothy: Use a whisk or milk frother to create a latte-like texture.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a chai-inspired twist.
- Storage: Store the tea base (without milk) in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently and add fresh milk before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion