Cinnamon Tea

Cinnamon tea is one of those simple drinks that feels a little more special than the effort it takes to make. You only need cinnamon sticks and water for the basic version, yet the finished tea has a naturally warm, lightly sweet and spicy flavor. It is especially comforting on cool evenings, and because it is naturally caffeine-free, you can enjoy a cup without adding coffee or regular tea leaves. A little honey, milk, lemon, ginger or orange can also change the character of the drink when you want something different.

What Is Cinnamon Tea?

Cinnamon tea is made by gently simmering whole cinnamon sticks in water and then allowing the liquid to rest before serving. Using whole sticks instead of ground cinnamon gives the drink a cleaner texture because the cinnamon can be strained out easily. The flavor is warm and aromatic rather than overwhelmingly spicy, making it a good choice when you want a simple homemade drink.

Ingredients

• 1 cup water
• 1 cinnamon stick, preferably Ceylon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup, optional
• 1 to 2 tablespoons milk or cream, optional
• A small slice of fresh ginger, optional
• A squeeze of lemon or a thin orange slice, optional

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How to Make Cinnamon Tea

1. Combine the water and cinnamon

Add the water and cinnamon stick to a small saucepan. Cover the pan and bring the water to a gentle but steady simmer over medium heat.

2. Simmer gently

Lower the heat and let the cinnamon simmer for about 10 minutes with the pan covered. Keeping the heat moderate helps draw out the cinnamon’s flavor without making the tea overly harsh.

3. Let the tea rest

Turn off the heat and leave the cinnamon in the hot water for another 10 minutes. This short resting period allows the flavor to develop while the tea cools slightly.

4. Strain and serve

Remove the cinnamon stick or pour the tea through a fine strainer into a mug. Drink it warm as it is, or add your preferred sweetener or creamer.

Quick Cinnamon Tea Method

If you do not want to use a saucepan, place two cinnamon sticks in a mug and pour 1 cup of freshly boiled water over them. Cover the mug and let the cinnamon steep for about 10 minutes. Remove the sticks if desired and serve. This method is convenient, although using two sticks produces a stronger cinnamon flavor.

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What You Can Do Better

The quality of the cinnamon makes a noticeable difference in this very simple recipe. Ceylon cinnamon has a softer, more delicate flavor and is often preferred when cinnamon is consumed regularly. Cassia cinnamon has a stronger, more intense taste and naturally contains more coumarin. For that reason, it is sensible not to consume large amounts of cinnamon every day, particularly if you have been advised to limit coumarin or have a liver condition.

You can also adjust the tea instead of simply making it stronger. Add fresh ginger for a sharper, warmer drink, a little lemon for brightness, or a splash of milk for a smoother cup. If you are watching added sugar, cinnamon tea is pleasant enough to drink without honey or other sweeteners.

Cinnamon Tea Variations

Cinnamon and Honey Tea

Stir a small amount of honey into the warm tea after straining. This works particularly well when you want a naturally sweeter drink.

Ginger Cinnamon Tea

Add two or three thin slices of fresh ginger while the cinnamon is simmering. The ginger adds a fresh, peppery note that balances the sweetness of cinnamon.

Lemon Cinnamon Tea

Prepare the tea normally and add a squeeze of fresh lemon just before serving. Avoid adding too much lemon because it can overpower the cinnamon.

Creamy Cinnamon Tea

Add a small splash of whole milk, half-and-half or your favorite plant-based creamer. The result is softer and more dessert-like without needing many additional ingredients.

Iced Cinnamon Tea

Let the finished tea cool, refrigerate it and pour it over ice. A little lemon or orange makes a refreshing version for warmer days.

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Tips for the Best Cinnamon Tea

• Use whole cinnamon sticks rather than ground cinnamon for a cleaner cup.
• Do not boil the cinnamon aggressively for a long time; gentle simmering is enough.
• Let the tea rest after cooking so the cinnamon has time to release more flavor.
• Taste the tea before adding honey or sugar because cinnamon already has a naturally sweet aroma.
• If you make cinnamon tea frequently, consider using Ceylon cinnamon sticks.
• For the freshest flavor, make only as much tea as you plan to drink or refrigerate leftovers promptly.

How to Store Cinnamon Tea

Allow leftover tea to cool, transfer it to a covered container and refrigerate it. It is best enjoyed within a few days. You can drink it chilled or gently warm it before serving. If you added milk or cream, keep the drink refrigerated and treat it like any other dairy-containing beverage.

Cinnamon Tea Nutrition

The basic version made with water and one cinnamon stick is very low in calories. The exact nutrition can vary depending on the size and type of cinnamon stick, so the figures below are only approximate. Adding honey, sugar, milk or cream will increase the calories and other nutrients.

Nutrition values are approximate and refer to unsweetened cinnamon tea. Adding honey, sugar, milk or cream will change the nutritional values.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make cinnamon tea with ground cinnamon?

Yes, but whole cinnamon sticks are easier to strain and usually produce a cleaner drink. Ground cinnamon tends to remain suspended in the water and can leave sediment at the bottom of the cup.

Is cinnamon tea caffeine-free?

Yes. Cinnamon itself does not contain caffeine, so plain cinnamon tea is naturally caffeine-free.

Can I drink cinnamon tea every day?

Cinnamon can be part of a normal diet, but consuming large amounts regularly is not advisable. If you drink cinnamon tea frequently, using Ceylon cinnamon can be a reasonable choice because it generally contains much less coumarin than Cassia cinnamon.

Can I add honey to cinnamon tea?

Yes. Honey pairs naturally with cinnamon and adds sweetness. Stir it into the tea after it has been strained and is comfortably warm.

Can I drink cinnamon tea cold?

Absolutely. Prepare the tea as usual, allow it to cool and refrigerate it. Serve over ice for a refreshing version.

How long should I steep cinnamon tea?

For a richer cup, simmer the cinnamon stick gently for about 10 minutes and then let it sit in the hot water for another 10 minutes. The exact strength can be adjusted to your taste.