When it comes to cozy beverages that soothe your soul, few can rival the warm embrace of a well-made Vanilla Cinnamon Milk Tea.
This delightful drink blends fragrant cinnamon and soothing vanilla with rich milk and black tea, creating a comforting cup that’s perfect for chilly mornings or relaxing afternoons.
Why I Love This Recipe
Aromatic spices and rich vanilla create a warm, inviting flavor
Easily customizable based on your spice preferences and sweetness level
Can be made with either tea bags or loose-leaf tea for convenience or quality
Suitable for dairy and non-dairy drinkers alike
Perfect as a relaxing beverage any time of day
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Water and milk — The base liquids that balance the strong spices and tea.
Ground cinnamon or cinnamon sticks — Adds warmth and subtle sweetness.
Vanilla extract or vanilla beans — Provides creamy floral notes.
Star anise (optional) — A touch of complexity with licorice undertones.
Loose-leaf black tea or tea bags — The robust, tannic backbone of the drink.
Sweetener (optional) — Honey, sugar, or alternative sweeteners to taste.
Pro Tips Before You Start
If using vanilla beans and cinnamon sticks, steep them gently off heat for best aroma without bitterness.
Adjust steeping times for tea according to your preferred strength — shorter for lighter, longer for stronger.
Warm the milk gently to avoid scorching or curdling; microwaving or stovetop heating works well.
Strain the spices carefully to avoid gritty textures.
Sweeten at the end to better control the balance of flavors.
How to Make Vanilla Cinnamon Milk Tea
Step 1: Boil Water
Place 2 ounces of water in a small pot and bring to a rolling boil.
Step 2: Add Spices
If using cinnamon sticks and vanilla beans (split and scraped), add them to the pot.
Turn off the heat and cover with a lid to steep for about 10 minutes. Add star anise if desired.
If using ground cinnamon and vanilla extract, simply add them after boiling; no steeping needed.
Step 3: Steep Black Tea
Add 4 teaspoons of loose-leaf black tea or 4 tea bags to the hot spice infusion.
Let steep for 3–5 minutes depending on your taste preference.
Step 4: Heat Milk
Warm 2 ounces of milk (dairy or plant-based) in a separate pan or microwave until hot but not boiling.
Step 5: Strain and Combine
Strain the spice and tea infusion through a fine mesh sieve into the warm milk.
Step 6: Sweeten to Taste
Add sweetener of your choice gradually, stirring until fully dissolved.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Pour into your favorite cup or glass and savor warm.
What to Serve It With
Soft buttery cookies or biscotti
Light sponge cakes or vanilla pound cake
Spiced nuts or trail mix for a crunchy contrast
Fresh fruit slices or citrus segments to brighten the palate
Afternoon tea sandwiches or scones
Variations / Substitutions
Use chai tea instead of black tea for a spiced twist
Replace vanilla beans with almond or coconut extracts for different flavors
Add a splash of coffee or espresso for a caffeinated boost
Use oat milk or almond milk for dairy-free, creamy texture
Sweeten with maple syrup or agave nectar for natural alternatives
Storage & Leftovers
Best enjoyed fresh, but leftover milk tea can be refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 24 hours.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally.
Do not boil again to avoid bitterness.
FAQs
Can I make this tea without vanilla beans?
Yes, vanilla extract works well and is a convenient alternative.
What if I don’t have cinnamon sticks?
Ground cinnamon is a fine substitute; just add it directly to the boiling water or milk.
Is star anise necessary?
No, it’s optional but adds a lovely aromatic depth.
Can I prepare this tea in advance?
You can prepare the spice infusion ahead, but combine with milk and sweetener just before serving.
What types of milk work best?
Dairy, oat, almond, soy, or any milk alternative works beautifully.
Can I use tea bags instead of loose leaf?
Yes, both are fine; loose leaf often has more robust flavor.
How do I make this tea sweeter?
Add honey, sugar, or your preferred sweetener gradually, tasting as you go.
Final Thoughts
This Vanilla Cinnamon Milk Tea is a comforting, aromatic beverage that can easily become your daily ritual.
Its blend of spices and creamy vanilla pairs beautifully with robust black tea to offer a soothing yet flavorful cup.
Perfect for chilly mornings, relaxing afternoons, or anytime you want a cozy moment, this recipe is simple, adaptable, and utterly delicious.
