Orange Cinnamon Iced Tea is a refreshing, aromatic, and flavorful drink that perfectly combines the zesty citrus notes of orange with the warm, spicy essence of cinnamon. This iced tea is ideal for hot days when you want something cool but still full of vibrant flavors. It’s not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser at gatherings or as a simple, everyday refreshment.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Orange Cinnamon Iced Tea is the perfect blend of sweet, citrusy, and spicy flavors. The orange provides a refreshing burst of citrus, while the cinnamon adds a cozy, warming undertone that pairs beautifully with the tea. Whether you’re looking for a new way to enjoy iced tea or need a flavorful drink for a party or picnic, this recipe is quick to prepare and offers a unique twist on classic iced tea. Plus, it’s naturally refreshing and can be easily customized to suit your sweetness preferences.

Orange Cinnamon Iced Tea

Ingredients

4 black tea bags (or 4 teaspoons loose-leaf tea)
1 cinnamon stick
1 large orange, sliced
4 cups water
1-2 tablespoons honey or sugar (adjust to taste)
Ice cubes
Fresh mint or orange slices (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Sweeten the tea: After removing the tea bags and cinnamon stick, stir in the honey or sugar while the tea is still warm. Taste the tea and adjust the sweetness to your liking.
Add the orange: Slice the orange and add the slices to the tea. Allow the orange to infuse the tea with its flavor by letting it sit for 10-15 minutes. For a more intense orange flavor, you can muddle the orange slices gently in the tea.
Cool the tea: Let the tea cool to room temperature, then refrigerate it for at least 2 hours to chill.
Serve: Once the tea is chilled, fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the tea over the ice. Garnish with fresh mint or additional orange slices, if desired.
Enjoy: Serve and enjoy your refreshing Orange Cinnamon Iced Tea!

Servings and timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Steeping time: 10-15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes (including chilling time)

Variations

Citrus twist: Add other citrus fruits like lemon or lime for a more complex, tangy flavor.
Herb-infused: Add a few sprigs of fresh mint or basil to the tea while it steeps for an herbal twist.
Sweetener options: Experiment with maple syrup, agave, or stevia as a sweetener for a different taste.
Iced tea pitcher: Make a larger batch by doubling or tripling the ingredients and serving it in a large pitcher for gatherings or parties.

Storage/reheating

Storage: Store leftover iced tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: If you want to enjoy this tea warm again, simply heat it up gently on the stove or in the microwave. It can also be enjoyed hot by skipping the ice.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of tea?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of tea, such as green tea, hibiscus tea, or herbal tea, instead of black tea. Keep in mind that this will slightly alter the flavor of the tea.

2. Can I use ground cinnamon instead of a cinnamon stick?

Yes, you can use ground cinnamon if you prefer, but a cinnamon stick will give the tea a more natural infusion. If using ground cinnamon, add about 1/4 teaspoon and stir well to combine.

3. Can I make this tea without sugar?

Yes, you can skip the sweetener or reduce the amount to suit your taste. The orange slices themselves will naturally sweeten the tea, especially after infusing.

4. Can I make this iced tea ahead of time?

Yes, this iced tea can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The longer it sits, the more the flavors will develop.

5. Can I add more spice to this iced tea?

If you love cinnamon, you can add an extra cinnamon stick or a pinch of ground cinnamon to intensify the flavor. You can also experiment with adding a pinch of cloves or nutmeg for added warmth.

6. Can I serve this iced tea at a party?

Yes, this iced tea is a great party beverage! You can make a large batch and serve it in a pitcher with additional garnishes like orange slices, cinnamon sticks, or mint for a festive touch.

7. Can I make this tea with decaffeinated tea?

Yes, if you prefer decaffeinated tea, you can easily substitute decaffeinated black tea for the regular tea, and the rest of the recipe remains the same.

8. Can I use frozen orange slices instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen orange slices will work great as a garnish, and they will also help keep the iced tea cold longer without watering it down.

9. Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh oranges?

You can use bottled orange juice, but fresh oranges give the tea a fresher, more vibrant flavor. If using bottled juice, opt for 100% pure orange juice with no added sugar.

Conclusion

Orange Cinnamon Iced Tea is a flavorful and refreshing beverage that combines the sweet, tangy notes of orange with the warm, spicy kick of cinnamon. It’s easy to make, and the result is a cooling and aromatic drink that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a summer gathering or enjoying it on a lazy afternoon, this iced tea is a great way to stay refreshed while indulging in a deliciously unique drink. Customize it to your taste, and enjoy the perfect balance of flavors in every sip!