Published:
Oct 12th 2021
by 
Nutritionally reviewed by 
Last updated: Sep 16th 2025
Cinnamon Tea is a comforting beverage that combines the warm, spicy flavor of cinnamon with the soothing qualities of tea. This simple method highlights the natural sweetness of cinnamon, making it an ideal drink for cozy moments or as a calming evening ritual. Enjoy it hot or cold, with or without caffeine, to suit any time of day.
Pro Tip You’ll love this recipe for its comforting blend of warm cinnamon and soothing tea, creating a delightful drink for any occasion. It's quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy days or leisurely evenings. Enjoy it hot or cold, and feel free to make a batch ahead of time for a refreshing treat whenever you desire.
Key nutrients
- Antioxidants: from cinnamon and tea — May help protect cells from everyday oxidative stress.
- Polyphenols: from black or green tea — Support overall wellness and natural body defenses.
- Manganese: from cinnamon sticks — Supports normal metabolism and bone health.
Why it matters
- Antioxidant-rich drinks can be a soothing, low-calorie alternative to sugary beverages.
- Warm beverages like this recipe may promote relaxation and hydration.
What to watch
- Added sweeteners — Brown sugar or honey increases total sugars; adjust to taste and needs.
- Caffeine — Black or green tea adds caffeine, which may not suit everyone, especially in the evening.
Make it even better
- Use less sweetener or swap for a natural option to lower added sugar.
- Add fresh ginger or citrus zest for extra flavor and more phytonutrients.
- Enjoy without tea bags for a caffeine-free, herbal version.
General nutrition information only; verify labels and consult a healthcare professional for personal advice.
References
- NCCIH — Cinnamon - For information on cinnamon’s nutrients and uses.
- Harvard Nutrition Source - For tea’s antioxidant and polyphenol content overview.
Best fit
- Gluten Free: Contains no wheat, barley, or rye ingredients.
- Vegetarian: No animal-derived ingredients except optional honey.
- Vegan: Use maple syrup or omit honey for a fully plant-based option.
- Low Fat: Made without added fats or oils.
Use with caution / avoid
- Added Sugars: Brown sugar or honey increases sugar content; limit for blood sugar concerns.
- Caffeine: Black or green tea adds caffeine; avoid if sensitive or limiting intake.
Helpful modifications
- Omit sweeteners or use a sugar substitute for a lower-sugar beverage.
- Skip tea bags for a caffeine-free, herbal version.
- Choose maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly option.
- Add lemon for extra flavor and vitamin C.
Pair with: Fresh fruit salad or whole grain toast to add fiber and balance the meal.
General nutrition information only; verify labels and consult a healthcare professional for personal advice.
No major allergens detected based on the listed ingredients. Always check labels for hidden allergens in sauces or blends.
Notes are based on the listed ingredients; always verify brand labels and local regulations. Swaps may require adjusting cook time and steps; the original recipe isn’t tailored to substitutions.
References
- FDA — Food Allergies - Used for reference on the US Big 9 allergens.
Clean
- Wash your hands with soap and water before preparing this recipe.
- Rinse cinnamon sticks under running water to remove dust or debris.
- Ensure all utensils and the saucepan are clean before use.
Separate
- Keep sweeteners like honey or sugar in clean, dry containers.
- Store tea bags away from raw foods and moisture to prevent contamination.
Cook
- Bring water to a full boil to help ensure safety before steeping ingredients.
- Simmer cinnamon sticks as directed; avoid undercooking for best flavor and safety.
Chill
- Cool leftover tea to room temperature before refrigerating in a sealed container.
- Refrigerate within 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
- Consume refrigerated tea within 3-4 days for best quality and safety.
References
- CDC — Food Safety - General food safety guidelines for preparation and storage.
- FDA — Safe Food Handling - Advice on cleaning, separating, cooking, and chilling foods safely.
- Cinnamon tea is popular worldwide for its naturally sweet, warming flavor and aromatic spice notes.
- Simmering cinnamon sticks releases essential oils that give the tea its signature aroma and taste.
- This recipe can be enjoyed hot or iced, making it versatile for any season or occasion.
- Cinnamon pairs well with honey, brown sugar, or citrus for extra flavor layers in your cup.
Name & origins
Cinnamon tea is enjoyed in many cultures, often as a cozy beverage or caffeine-free herbal infusion.
Ingredient spotlight
- Cinnamon sticks: Provide a warm, sweet-spicy flavor and aromatic depth to the tea.
- Black or green tea: Adds caffeine and a robust base if included in the recipe.
- Honey or brown sugar: Enhances natural sweetness and balances the spice.
Technique tidbit
Gently simmering cinnamon sticks allows their oils to infuse without extracting bitter notes, resulting in a smooth, flavorful brew.
Before you start
- Gather all ingredients and equipment for this recipe to streamline the process.
- Ensure your saucepan is clean and ready for simmering.
- Use filtered water for the best flavor in your cinnamon tea.
During cooking
- Simmer cinnamon sticks gently to release their subtle flavors without bitterness.
- Watch for the aroma; it indicates the cinnamon is infusing well.
- Avoid boiling vigorously to prevent a strong, bitter taste.
- Steep tea bags separately to control the strength of the final brew.
Make-ahead & storage
- Prepare cinnamon tea in advance and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove or microwave without boiling to preserve flavor.
Common mistakes
- Over-simmering → Keep it gentle to avoid bitterness from the cinnamon.
- Skipping sweeteners → Taste as you go to find the perfect balance of sweetness.
Serve with
- Warm cinnamon rolls or spiced muffins for a cozy treat.
- A fresh fruit salad to balance the warm spices.
- Honey or brown sugar on the side for customizable sweetness.
Toppings & textures
- A cinnamon stick for an elegant touch and extra spice.
- A slice of lemon for a bright, citrusy contrast.
Occasions
- Perfect for cozy evenings, brunch gatherings, or holiday celebrations.
Substitutions
- If you lack cinnamon sticks, use ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon per stick) for a quicker infusion.
- For a caffeine-free option, skip tea bags and enjoy this recipe as a herbal infusion.
- Replace brown sugar or honey with maple syrup for a different sweet flavor profile.
Variations
- Add fresh ginger during simmering for a spicy twist that enhances the warmth of this recipe.
- Include citrus zest to brighten the flavor and add refreshing notes to your cinnamon tea.
Refrigerate
- Cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days for best flavor.
Freeze
- Freezing not recommended; the flavor may diminish over time.
Reheat
- Gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warm.
- Avoid boiling to maintain the delicate flavors.
Repurpose ideas
- Blend with fruits and yogurt for a spicy smoothie.
- Use as a base for iced beverages with ice and lemon.
- Cinnamon Sticks: Provide the warm, spicy flavor and natural sweetness that define this recipe.
- Water: Acts as the base to extract the flavors from the cinnamon and tea.
- Brown Sugar or Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the spice and enhance the taste.
- Black or Green Tea Bags: Optional for a caffeine boost and additional flavor complexity.
Can I use ground cinnamon instead of cinnamon sticks for this tea?
Yes, you can use ground cinnamon as a substitute. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon per stick and add it during steeping to avoid bitterness.
How long should I simmer the cinnamon sticks to get the best flavor?
Simmer the cinnamon sticks gently for 10-15 minutes. Avoid boiling vigorously to preserve the delicate flavors and prevent bitterness.
Is it necessary to add tea bags, or can I make cinnamon tea without caffeine?
Adding tea bags is optional. You can enjoy cinnamon tea as a caffeine-free herbal infusion by simply simmering the cinnamon sticks in water.
Time & Serves
Ingredients
2-3 Cinnamon Sticks
1 Liter of Water
Brown sugar or honey to sweeten
1 bag per person of Black or Green Tea
Instructions
Using a saucepan, add the water and cinnamon, then bring to a boil for 10-15 minutes.
Remove from the heat, cover, and allow to steep for 5 minutes.
Add the tea bags for the caffeinated option.
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