Homemade Vanilla Cinnamon Milk Tea

A creamy and comforting milk tea infused with natural vanilla and warm cinnamon, lightly sweetened and beautifully swirled for a cozy treat. This aromatic beverage is served iced, with luscious caramel tones dancing through every sip.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy and quick: Ready in just 10 minutes with minimal steps.
• Naturally sweetened: Made with maple syrup or your sweetener of choice.
• Warmly spiced: The cinnamon adds a gentle, cozy heat.
• Customizable: Use your favorite milk or tea base.
• Aromatic and refreshing: Perfect served over ice with an elegant swirl effect.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 black tea bags (or 2 tsp loose-leaf black tea)
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1/2 cup milk of choice (dairy or plant-based)
• 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1–2 tsp maple syrup or sweetener of choice
• Ice cubes

Directions

1. Steep the black tea in boiling water for 5–7 minutes. Remove tea bags or strain loose leaves and let the tea cool slightly.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the milk over low heat until just steaming. Stir in vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and your desired sweetener.
3. Use a whisk or milk frother to blend the milk mixture until slightly frothy.
4. Fill a tall glass with ice cubes.
5. Pour the cooled tea over the ice. Slowly pour the spiced milk mixture on top.
6. Gently swirl to combine, allowing the cinnamon and vanilla to streak beautifully through the drink.
7. Serve immediately. Optionally, garnish with a cinnamon stick or a light dusting of ground cinnamon.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 1 serving
Calories: 90 kcal per serving

Variations

• Hot version: Skip the ice and enjoy this drink warm in a mug.
• Extra creamy: Use half-and-half or a barista-style plant milk for richer texture.
• Chai twist: Add cardamom or nutmeg for a chai-inspired blend.
• Coffee blend: Mix with cold brew for a vanilla cinnamon tea-coffee fusion.
• Coconut version: Use coconut milk and top with toasted coconut flakes.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in the fridge (unsweetened) for up to 24 hours.
• Reheating: If prepared without ice, gently reheat in a saucepan to serve warm.
• Note: If storing, shake or stir well before serving as cinnamon and milk may settle.

FAQs

What kind of tea works best for this recipe?

Black tea is traditional and provides a strong base. Assam, Darjeeling, or English Breakfast are all great choices.

Can I use non-dairy milk?

Yes, almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk work well. Barista-style plant milks froth especially well.

Is this drink good without sweetener?

Yes, though it’s traditionally sweetened, you can omit or reduce the sweetener if you prefer a more robust tea flavor.

Can I make a batch for later?

Yes, brew the tea and mix the milk mixture separately. Store them in the fridge and combine over ice when ready to serve.

How can I make it more indulgent?

Use whole milk or add a splash of cream for a richer version.

What’s the best way to froth milk without a frother?

A whisk works well, or shake the warm milk in a sealed jar for a DIY froth.

Can I add boba or tapioca pearls?

Absolutely, this milk tea pairs perfectly with boba for a homemade bubble tea twist.

Will ground cinnamon dissolve fully?

It blends into the milk but may settle. Stir or shake before drinking to redistribute.

Can I turn this into a blended drink?

Yes, blend the tea and milk mixture with ice for a creamy frappé-style version.

What sweeteners are best?

Maple syrup, agave, honey, or a splash of simple syrup all work depending on your flavor preferences.

Conclusion

Homemade Vanilla Cinnamon Milk Tea is a warm-meets-refreshing drink that’s easy to prepare and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re winding down in the evening or seeking a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, this smooth, lightly spiced tea delivers comfort in every sip. Try it once, and it might just become your go-to cozy beverage.

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