As the temperatures drop and the snowflakes start to fall, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm cup of hot tea on a cold winter night. The perfect way to unwind after a long day, hot tea is a comforting and soothing beverage that can be enjoyed by itself or paired with your favorite sweet treats. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy and invigorating or calming and herbal, there’s a hot tea recipe out there for everyone.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 cozy hot tea recipes that are sure to become new favorites this winter season. From classic flavors like earl grey and masala chai to more unique blends like clove and star anise, we’ve got you covered with the perfect cup of hot tea to warm your hands and heart.
Spiced Chai Latte
Warm up with a delicious Spiced Chai Latte, perfect for a cozy evening or a pick-me-up any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk (whole, skim, or non-dairy)
– 2 teaspoons loose-leaf black tea
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
– Pinch of salt
– Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the milk to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the tea leaves, cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger. Let it steep for 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture reaches your desired strength of flavor.
3. Strain the tea leaves from the milk using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey or sugar and salt until dissolved.
5. Add the sweetener mixture to the spiced milk and stir well.
6. Pour the Spiced Chai Latte into cups and top with whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Honey Lemon Ginger Tea
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful tea, perfect for any time of day or night. The combination of honey, lemon, and ginger creates a delightful blend that’s sure to soothe your senses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon dried lemon peel
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Fresh lemon slice (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the boiling water to a simmer.
2. Add the grated ginger and dried lemon peel; let it steep for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors are well combined.
3. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solids.
4. Add the honey and stir until dissolved.
5. Taste and adjust the sweetness as needed.
6. Garnish with a fresh lemon slice, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Earl Grey with Lavender
Discover the soothing combination of Earl Grey’s bergamot and lavender’s calming essence in this unique tea blend.
Ingredients:
– 1 Earl Grey tea bag
– 1/4 cup dried lavender petals
– 1 cup boiling water
– Honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Steep the Earl Grey tea bag in boiling water for 3-5 minutes, depending on your desired strength of tea.
2. While the tea is steeping, add the dried lavender petals to a tea infuser or a small muslin bag.
3. Once the tea has steeped, remove the tea bag and add the lavender infusion to the tea. Let it steep for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a cup and discard the solids. Add honey or sugar to taste, if desired.
5. Serve hot and enjoy the calming effects of this soothing tea blend.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Turmeric Golden Milk Tea
Warm up with this soothing and flavorful Turmeric Golden Milk Tea recipe, perfect for any time of day. This comforting drink combines the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric with the richness of milk and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup non-dairy milk (almond, coconut, or soy)
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Pinch of black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Add the turmeric and ginger; reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Strain the mixture into a large mug or teapot.
4. Add the non-dairy milk and stir until well combined.
5. If desired, add honey to taste.
6. Sprinkle with a pinch of black pepper (aiding turmeric absorption).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peppermint Herbal Tea
This invigorating tea is perfect for hot summer days or whenever you need a calming pick-me-up. With its refreshing peppermint flavor and soothing herbal properties, this recipe is sure to become your new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon dried peppermint leaves
– 1 cup boiling water
– Honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a tea kettle or pot.
2. Add the dried peppermint leaves and let it steep for 5-7 minutes, depending on your desired level of mintiness.
3. Strain the tea into a cup using a tea infuser or a piece of cheesecloth.
4. Add honey to taste, if desired.
5. Enjoy your refreshing cup of Peppermint Herbal Tea!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Masala Chai
Experience the warm, aromatic flavors of India with this simple recipe for Masala Chai, a traditional spiced black tea.
Ingredients:
– 2 teaspoons loose-leaf black tea (Assam or Darjeeling)
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup milk (whole, skim, or a non-dairy alternative)
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the tea leaves, ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and pepper.
2. Pour in the milk and add sugar to taste (if using).
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let it steep for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Strain the tea into cups and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Citrus Mint Green Tea
This revitalizing tea blend combines the invigorating flavors of citrus and mint to create a refreshing drink perfect for any time of day. With its subtle sweetness and tangy zip, it’s sure to become your new favorite pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon green tea leaves
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves
– Honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil.
2. Remove from heat and add green tea leaves. Steep for 3-5 minutes, or until desired strength is reached.
3. Strain the tea into a large pitcher.
4. Add orange and grapefruit juices. Stir well to combine.
5. Add chopped mint leaves and stir gently to distribute evenly.
6. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
7. Sweeten with honey or sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Vanilla Rooibos Tea
This comforting tea blend combines the nutty flavor of rooibos tea with the sweetness of vanilla, making it a perfect pick-me-up for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon loose-leaf rooibos tea
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup boiling water
– Honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Remove from heat and add the loose-leaf rooibos tea. Let it steep for 5-7 minutes, or until the tea reaches your desired strength.
3. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
4. Add the vanilla extract to the tea and stir well to combine.
5. Sweeten with honey or sugar, if desired.
6. Enjoy hot, or let it cool to room temperature for a refreshing iced tea.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Cinnamon Apple Tea
This soothing tea combines the sweetness of apples with the warmth of cinnamon, making it a perfect remedy for a chilly day or a cozy evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 apple, cored and sliced
– 2 teaspoons dried cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon loose-leaf black tea (or 1 tea bag)
– 1 cup boiling water
– Honey to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Add the apple slices and cinnamon. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the apples are tender.
3. Remove from heat and add the black tea (or tea bag). Let it steep for an additional 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth. Discard the solids.
5. Add honey to taste, if desired.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Matcha Latte
Start your day with a refreshing and energizing matcha latte, made with high-quality green tea leaves and milk. This simple recipe requires just a few ingredients and minutes of preparation.
Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon matcha powder
– 2 shots espresso or strong brewed coffee (about 2 ounces)
– 3-4 oz milk (whole, skim, or non-dairy alternative)
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
– Whipped cream and matcha powder for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the matcha powder and a splash of hot water until smooth.
2. Add the espresso or coffee to the bowl and whisk until well combined.
3. Pour in the milk and whisk until the mixture is frothy and creamy.
4. Taste and add sugar if desired.
5. Pour the latte into a cup and garnish with whipped cream and matcha powder, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Enjoy your delicious matcha latte!
Jasmine Pearl Tea
This delicate tea blend combines the floral notes of jasmine green tea with the creamy sweetness of white pearls, creating a calming and rejuvenating brew perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon Jasmine Pearl Tea leaves
– 8 oz boiling water
– Honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat water to a boil.
2. Add 1 teaspoon of Jasmine Pearl Tea leaves to a tea infuser or directly into the pot.
3. Pour boiling water over the tea leaves and let it steep for 2-3 minutes, depending on desired strength.
4. Strain the tea into a cup and discard the tea leaves.
5. If desired, add honey or sugar to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Cardamom Rose Tea
Experience the soothing combination of cardamom and rose petals in this aromatic tea recipe, perfect for relaxing after a long day.
Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon green tea leaves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon dried rose petals
– 1 cup boiling water
– Honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small pot, bring the boiling water to a simmer.
2. Add the green tea leaves and let it steep for 3-5 minutes, or until the desired strength is reached.
3. Remove the tea leaves by pouring the tea through a strainer or cheesecloth.
4. Add the ground cardamom and dried rose petals to the tea. Stir well to combine.
5. Let the mixture steep for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Strain the tea again to remove any solids.
7. Sweeten with honey or sugar to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chamomile Honey Tea
Chamomile honey tea is a calming and flavorful brew that combines the sweet, floral notes of chamomile with the warmth of honey. Perfect for unwinding after a long day or as a gentle pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon dried chamomile flowers
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 cup boiling water
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil and remove from heat.
2. Add the dried chamomile flowers to the water and let steep for 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture has cooled slightly.
3. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth. Discard the solids.
4. Add the honey to the tea and stir until dissolved.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Orange Spice Black Tea
Escape into a world of citrusy delight with this comforting blend of black tea, orange zest, and warming spices. Perfect for a cozy afternoon or a relaxing evening, Orange Spice Black Tea is sure to become your new favorite brew.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong black tea leaves (such as Assam or Ceylon)
– 1/4 cup dried orange peel
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 cup honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring 1 quart of water to a boil.
2. Add tea leaves, orange peel, cinnamon sticks, ginger, and cloves.
3. Steep for 5-7 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Strain the tea into cups and add honey to taste (if using).
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Lemongrass Ginger Tea
Soften your senses with this refreshing and invigorating tea, perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and sliced thin
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Fresh mint leaves or lemon slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine lemongrass stalk, ginger slice, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the liquid has reduced slightly.
4. Strain the tea into cups using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
5. Add honey to taste, if desired.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or lemon slices, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Hot Hibiscus Tea
Experience the warm, floral flavors of hibiscus with this simple recipe. This caffeine-free tea is perfect for a relaxing evening or a soothing pick-me-up any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried hibiscus flowers (roselle)
– 2 cups water
– Honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Add the dried hibiscus flowers and reduce heat to low.
3. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the mixture has reduced slightly and the flavors have melded together.
4. Strain the tea into cups using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
5. Sweeten with honey or sugar to taste, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Yield: 2 cups of hot hibiscus tea
Enjoy your soothing and flavorful cup of Hot Hibiscus Tea!
White Tea with Peach
Discover a delightful twist on traditional white tea with the sweetness of peaches. This recipe is perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a calming pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon white tea leaves
– 1 ripe peach, sliced into wedges
– 1 cup water (around 200°F)
– Honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the water to the desired temperature.
2. Place one teaspoon of white tea leaves in a tea infuser or strainer.
3. Pour the hot water over the tea leaves and let it steep for 2-3 minutes, or until the desired strength is reached.
4. While the tea is steeping, prepare the peach wedges by gently squeezing out any excess juice.
5. Once the tea has steeped, add the peach wedges to the tea leaves.
6. Stir well to combine and let it infuse for another 2-3 minutes.
7. Strain the tea into a cup and sweeten with honey or sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Clove and Star Anise Tea
This aromatic tea combines the warm, spicy flavors of cloves and star anise to create a soothing and comforting brew perfect for cold winter days or any time you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon dried whole cloves
– 2 teaspoons whole star anise pods
– 1 cup boiling water
– Honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cloves and star anise pods.
2. Pour in the boiling water, making sure that all the spices are covered.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Strain the tea into a cup or teapot using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
5. Add honey or sugar to taste, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Enjoy your warm and comforting Clove and Star Anise Tea!
Summary
Cozy up on winter nights with these 18 delicious hot tea recipes! From Spiced Chai Latte to Vanilla Rooibos Tea, and from Masala Chai to Citrus Mint Green Tea, there’s something for everyone. Discover unique flavor combinations like Honey Lemon Ginger Tea and Earl Grey with Lavender, or go classic with Cinnamon Apple Tea and Orange Spice Black Tea. Whether you’re looking for a calming brew or an invigorating pick-me-up, these recipes will keep you warm and toasty all winter long.
