Orange Cinnamon Iced Tea Recipe: A Refreshing Citrus-Spiced Delight
Orange Cinnamon Iced Tea Recipe brings together the bright, zesty flavor of fresh citrus with the warm, comforting aroma of cinnamon in a way that feels both refreshing and soothing. Perfect for hot summer afternoons, brunch gatherings, or even cozy evenings when you want something chilled yet aromatic, this drink strikes a beautiful balance between bold and mellow flavors.
Unlike store-bought iced teas that often rely on artificial sweeteners and flavorings, homemade orange cinnamon iced tea allows complete control over taste, sweetness, and ingredients. Fresh oranges add natural sweetness and vitamin C, while cinnamon infuses a subtle spice that lingers pleasantly on the palate. The result is a vibrant, thirst-quenching beverage that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
Ingredients Needed
Below is a simple list of ingredients along with their approximate calorie contribution per serving.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Black tea bags | 3 bags | 0 |
| Fresh oranges (sliced) | 2 medium | 120 |
| Cinnamon sticks | 2 sticks | 12 |
| Honey or sugar | 2 tablespoons | 128 |
| Water | 4 cups | 0 |
| Ice cubes | As needed | 0 |
| Fresh mint (optional) | For garnish | 2 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Boil the water
Bring 4 cups of fresh water to a gentle boil in a saucepan. - Steep the tea and cinnamon
Remove the saucepan from heat, add the black tea bags and cinnamon sticks, and let them steep for 5–7 minutes. Longer steeping will result in a stronger, spicier flavor. - Add sweetness
Stir in honey or sugar while the tea is still warm to ensure it dissolves completely. - Infuse with orange flavor
Add fresh orange slices to the tea and allow them to steep for another 5 minutes, releasing their citrus oils and natural sweetness. - Cool the tea
Remove the tea bags and cinnamon sticks, then let the mixture cool to room temperature. - Chill and serve
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Serve over ice and garnish with mint or an extra orange slice if desired.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Make it caffeine-free by using rooibos or herbal tea instead of black tea.
- Boost the spice profile with a pinch of cloves or star anise.
- Use blood oranges for a deeper color and richer citrus flavor.
- Go sugar-free by replacing sweetener with stevia or monk fruit.
- Turn it into a sparkling drink by topping with chilled sparkling water just before serving.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 65 |
| Carbohydrates | 17 g |
| Sugar | 14 g |
| Vitamin C | 35% DV |
Serving Suggestions
- Serve in tall glasses with clear ice cubes for an elegant presentation
- Pair with light snacks like fruit tarts, cookies, or tea sandwiches
- Offer as a refreshing non-alcoholic option at parties and picnics
- Freeze into ice pops for a fun summer treat
Orange Cinnamon Iced Tea Recipe: A Refreshing Citrus-Spiced Delight
4
servings10
minutes10
minutes65
kcalIngredients
3 black tea bags
4 cups water
2 cinnamon sticks
2 medium fresh oranges, sliced
2 tablespoons honey or sugar (adjust to taste)
Ice cubes, as needed
Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan.
- Remove from heat and add black tea bags and cinnamon sticks.
- Steep for 5–7 minutes, then remove the tea bags.
- Stir in honey or sugar while the tea is still warm.
- Add fresh orange slices and let steep for another 5 minutes.
- Remove cinnamon sticks and allow the tea to cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until chilled.
- Serve over ice and garnish with mint or orange slices if desired.
Recipe Video
Notes
- For the best flavor, use freshly sliced oranges rather than bottled juice.
Avoid over-steeping the tea, as it may turn bitter; 5–7 minutes is ideal.
Remove orange slices after 24 hours if storing to maintain a clean, balanced taste.
FAQs
1. Can I make orange cinnamon iced tea ahead of time?
Yes, orange cinnamon iced tea can be prepared in advance. It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. For the best flavor, remove the orange slices after 24 hours to prevent bitterness.
2. What type of tea works best for this recipe?
Black tea works best because it provides a bold base that balances the sweetness of oranges and the warmth of cinnamon. Green tea or herbal tea can also be used for a lighter or caffeine-free version.
3. Is orange cinnamon iced tea healthy?
This iced tea is a healthier alternative to sugary beverages. It contains antioxidants from tea, vitamin C from oranges, and potential anti-inflammatory benefits from cinnamon. Sweetener levels can be adjusted to suit dietary needs.
4. Can I drink orange cinnamon iced tea hot?
Absolutely. The recipe works well as a hot tea during cooler months. Simply skip the chilling step and serve warm for a comforting citrus-spiced drink.
5. How can I make this iced tea sugar-free?
Replace honey or sugar with natural sugar substitutes such as stevia, monk fruit, or erythritol. Fresh oranges already add natural sweetness, so minimal sweetener is often enough.
Conclusion
Orange cinnamon iced tea proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor when paired thoughtfully. The bright citrus notes, gentle spice, and refreshing chill make it a drink worth returning to again and again. Easy to prepare, customizable, and naturally delicious, this recipe fits effortlessly into any season or occasion.
