If you’re looking for a festive, family-friendly alternative to mulled wine this holiday season, orange cinnamon spiced tea is the answer! This non-alcoholic drink bursts with warmth, aroma, and seasonal cheer. It’s the perfect holiday staple for everyone at the table – from kids to grandparents. Not only is it delicious, but it is packed with vitamin C, antioxidants and the natural goodness of spices. The fragrant blend of orange, cinnamon and star anise will make you feel extra cosy and comfy this season. Let the rich aroma fill your home with the scent of Christmas!
Here’s everything you need to brew this delightful holiday treat:
Ingredients
Serves 4-6 cups. Simply double it for larger gatherings!
- 100 ml water
- 2 oranges – 1 sliced for garnish, the other zested and juiced
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 2 star anise pods
- 4 whole cloves
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger – sliced
- 1-2 black tea bags (optional for stronger tea base)
- 1-2 TBSP honey or maple syrup (for a low-sugar healthier option, use stevia)
- 1 TSP of vanilla extract (optional for richer flavour)
- Fresh cranberries or pomegranate seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Start with a spicy base: In a medium saucepan, bring 1 litre of water to a gentle boil. Add cinnamon sticks, star anise, cloves, and sliced ginger. Reduce the heat to simmer and let the spices infuse for about 10 minutes.
- Add the citrus touch: Add the zest and juice of one orange to the simmering pot. The zest gives a fragrant, citrusy punch, while the juice adds sweetness and tang.
- Optional tea base: Add 1-2 black tea bags to the simmering mixture for a deep flavour and steep for 3-5 minutes. Remove the tea bags once steeped to avoid bitterness.
- Sweeten the pot: Stir in honey, maple syrup or stevia to your desired sweetness level. Add the vanilla extract for extra warmth and depth.
- Serve and garnish: Strain the tea into mugs and garnish each cup with a slice of orange, a few spices, such as cinnamon sticks or star anise, and a few fresh cranberries or pomegranate seeds for a festive flair. You could use our teapot to serve, check it out here.
Pro tips
- Batch brew: this tea can be made in large quantities and kept warm in a slow cooker for holiday parties.
- Make it sparkling: Add a splash of sparkling water or ginger ale just before serving for a fizzy twist.
- Spice it up: Play around with spices like nutmeg or cardamon to customise the flavour.
Picture this: a crackling fire, twinkling lights on the tree, and a steaming mug of this festive beverage warming your hands. It sounds like a perfect Christmas moment! Add a cosy blanket and your favourite Christmas playlist – check out our CG Christmas Playlist! It is a treat everyone can enjoy, guilt-free and full of festive cheer.
We also make our own blends of loose leaf teas on the farm, each having their own unique natural properties, check them out here! For other festive treats click here.
Any questions? Contact one of our Nutritional Therapists via Live Chat, weekdays 8 am to 8 pm.
