There’s nothing quite like a cozy mug of Cinnamon Apple Tea to warm your hands and your heart, especially when the weather turns chilly. This delightful infusion is a perfect blend of sweet apple, aromatic spices, and naturally caffeine-free rooibos, creating a beverage that feels as comforting as your favorite blanket. Whether you’re looking for a soothing afternoon pick-me-up or a special drink to share with friends, Cinnamon Apple Tea is sure to bring a bit of joy to any moment.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Cinnamon Apple Tea is how a few thoughtfully chosen ingredients come together to create such a memorable, multifaceted flavor. Each element brings its own magic—from the warmth of cinnamon to the fruity brightness of apple—ensuring this tea tastes as inviting as it looks.
- Filtered water: Start with fresh, cold water for the purest flavor foundation.
- Unfiltered fresh pressed apple cider or apple juice: Go for unfiltered if you can; it gives a deeper apple essence and a lovely cloudiness that looks as good as it tastes.
- Ceylon cinnamon sticks: Two sticks will infuse loads of sweet heat—plus, use extra as a whimsical, aromatic stirrer.
- Whole cloves: Just a teaspoon is plenty; they add a subtle spiced note that elevates the drink without overpowering it.
- Star anise: This single star adds a hint of licorice flavor that’s deliciously unexpected and beautifully fragrant.
- Rooibos tea bags: Naturally caffeine-free and earthy, rooibos lets the apple and spices shine without any bitterness.
- Apple slices (optional): These make your mugs look festive and impart a fresh, juicy crunch—definitely worth adding.
- Maple syrup or sweetener of choice: Adjust to your own sweetness preference; a drizzle of maple syrup makes the flavors pop.
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Tea
Step 1: Simmer the Spices and Apple
In a medium saucepan, combine the filtered water, fresh pressed apple cider or juice, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and star anise. Bring everything to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once it starts bubbling, lower the heat, cover the pan, and let the wonderful mixture infuse for 10 minutes. The cozy aroma of Cinnamon Apple Tea will start to drift through your kitchen—trust me, it’s heavenly!
Step 2: Steep the Rooibos
After the 10 minutes of simmering, turn off the heat and drop in the rooibos tea bags. Cover the pot again and let the bags steep for 5 minutes. This short steeping time prevents bitterness and gives the tea a lovely, rounded flavor. Remove the tea bags, then strain out the cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise so all that gets into your mug is silky, spiced goodness.
Step 3: Sweeten and Serve
Stir in your maple syrup or favorite sweetener, tasting as you go until the Cinnamon Apple Tea is just right for your palate. Pour the hot tea into cozy mugs and garnish each with a few thin apple slices and a fresh cinnamon stick for good measure. The final result looks as beautiful as it tastes!
How to Serve Cinnamon Apple Tea
Garnishes
A garnish isn’t just decoration; it’s part of the whole experience! Float a few fresh apple slices on top for a pretty pop of color and a little extra apple aroma. Tucking a cinnamon stick into each mug not only looks charming but lets you stir as you sip, boosting that signature spiced scent with every swirl.
Side Dishes
Cinnamon Apple Tea pairs wonderfully with anything cinnamon-y or fruity. Think warm scones, buttery shortbread, or a slice of apple cake. For a healthy twist, serve it with a crisp autumn salad or a handful of dried fruit and nuts—a contrast of textures that makes your tea break feel special.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re making a batch for a gathering, consider serving your Cinnamon Apple Tea in a clear glass teapot or dispenser so those jewel-toned hues and drifting apple slices are on display. For a festive touch, rim your mugs with cinnamon sugar or add a tiny star anise on the saucer. It’s a drink that’s right at home at elegant brunches and cozy book clubs alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have extra Cinnamon Apple Tea, let it cool to room temperature before pouring into a clean, airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator, where it’ll stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days. Having a jar of this tea in the fridge means cozy refreshment is always just a warm-up away.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover Cinnamon Apple Tea in ice cube trays or freezer-safe containers. Once frozen, pop the cubes into your next glass of iced tea for instant spiced flavor with no dilution. This little hack is wonderful for those who enjoy the tea cold as much as hot.
Reheating
Reheating is a breeze: just pour the chilled tea into a saucepan or microwave-safe mug and gently warm it until it’s steaming. Try not to boil it, as that can dull the subtle apple notes and spices. Always taste after reheating and adjust the sweetness if needed.
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of tea instead of rooibos?
Absolutely! You can substitute your favorite herbal tea, such as chamomile or hibiscus, for a new twist on Cinnamon Apple Tea. If you prefer a caffeinated kick, black tea or green tea work well, but reduce the steeping time so the tea doesn’t overpower the apple and spice flavors.
Can I make this tea in a slow cooker?
Yes, a slow cooker is perfect for parties or when you want your house to smell amazing all day. Add all the ingredients except the rooibos tea bags and sweetener, cook on low for 2-3 hours, then steep the tea bags right before serving. Keep it on the “warm” setting for guests to enjoy throughout the afternoon.
Is Cinnamon Apple Tea safe for kids?
Since Cinnamon Apple Tea is caffeine-free (thanks, rooibos!) and uses natural ingredients, it’s a gentle, tasty drink for both kids and adults. Just keep the sweetness in check for little ones, and feel free to skip the star anise if your family isn’t fond of its slightly licorice flavor.
What if I don’t have Ceylon cinnamon sticks?
Cassia cinnamon sticks or even a generous pinch of ground cinnamon will do in a pinch, though the flavor may be a touch spicier or more robust. Adjust the quantity to taste, and remember to strain well before serving.
Can I serve Cinnamon Apple Tea cold?
Definitely! Cinnamon Apple Tea tastes amazing chilled over ice, especially when you add apple slices and a cinnamon stick to your glass. It makes a refreshing, lightly spiced drink in the summertime or anytime you want a cool pick-me-up.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a soul-soothing, flavor-rich drink that’s as pretty as it is satisfying, Cinnamon Apple Tea is destined to become a staple in your kitchen. There’s really no occasion that isn’t brightened by a mug of this aromatic brew, so gather your ingredients and give it a try—you’ll be hooked after your first sip!
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Cinnamon Apple Tea Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Warm up with this comforting Cinnamon Apple Tea recipe that blends the sweetness of apple cider with aromatic spices for a cozy drink.
Ingredients
For the Tea:
- 2 cups/480ml filtered water
- ½ cup/120ml unfiltered fresh pressed apple cider or apple juice
- 2 Ceylon cinnamon sticks (plus more for serving if desired)
- 1 teaspoon whole cloves
- 1 star anise
- 2 rooibos tea bags
For Serving:
- Apple slices for serving (optional)
- Maple syrup or sweetener of choice to taste
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine water, apple cider/juice, and spices. Simmer, then cover and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add Tea Bags: Turn off heat, add tea bags, cover, and let steep for 5 minutes. Remove tea bags and strain spices.
- Serve: Stir in maple syrup to taste. Serve in mugs with apple slices and a cinnamon stick for stirring.
Notes
- You can adjust the sweetness of the tea by adding more or less maple syrup.
- Feel free to garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240ml)
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
