Homemade Orange Cinnamon Iced Tea – Refreshing, Cozy, and Bright with Citrus Spice

Homemade iced tea is one of life’s simplest pleasures, and this Orange Cinnamon Iced Tea takes that comfort to a whole new level. It’s refreshing and cooling like classic iced tea, yet warmly aromatic thanks to cinnamon and cloves. The fresh orange slices infuse the tea with sweet citrus notes, creating a drink that’s equal parts cozy and invigorating. Whether you’re sipping it on a sunny afternoon or serving it at a gathering, this iced tea brings a beautiful balance of warmth and brightness.

The magic of this drink lies in its infusion. As the tea steeps with cinnamon sticks and orange zest, it develops layers of flavor—spicy, citrusy, slightly sweet, and incredibly refreshing. You can enjoy it lightly sweetened with honey or sugar, or leave it unsweetened for a naturally crisp finish. And because it’s a homemade recipe, you can adjust everything: sweetness, tea strength, cinnamon intensity, and citrus levels.

This iced tea fits every season. It feels cool and rejuvenating in the summer, yet its cinnamon warmth makes it perfect for cozy fall and winter gatherings. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make, stores well, and tastes even better after chilling overnight. Let’s brew a pitcher of citrus-spiced comfort.

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Ingredients:

• 6 cups water
• 4 black tea bags (or 3 tbsp loose black tea)
• 1 large orange, sliced
• Zest of 1 orange
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 3–4 whole cloves (optional)
• ¼–½ cup sugar or honey, to taste
• 2 cups ice
• Optional garnish: orange slices, cinnamon sticks, mint leaves

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Instructions:

1. Heat water: Bring 6 cups of water to a simmer in a medium saucepan.
2. Add spices: Add cinnamon sticks and cloves. Simmer 5 minutes to infuse.
3. Steep tea: Turn off heat and add tea bags. Steep 5–7 minutes depending on desired strength.
4. Add citrus: Add orange zest and a few orange slices to the warm mixture.
5. Sweeten: Stir in sugar or honey while the tea is still warm so it fully dissolves.
6. Strain: Remove tea bags, cinnamon sticks, and cloves.
7. Chill: Pour into a pitcher, add remaining orange slices, and chill at least 1 hour.
8. Serve: Fill glasses with ice, pour the iced tea, and garnish with cinnamon sticks and fresh orange slices.

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Tips & Tricks

• Don’t over-steep the tea—it can become bitter.
• Honey adds a floral sweetness, while sugar keeps it classic.
• Chill overnight for an even deeper citrus-spice flavor.
• Try different teas: Green, oolong, or rooibos all work beautifully.

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Variations

• Spiced Holiday Tea: Add star anise and a pinch of nutmeg.
• Orange Mint Iced Tea: Add fresh mint to the cold pitcher.
• Ginger-Orange Iced Tea: Add 4 slices of fresh ginger to the infusion.
• Sugar-Free Version: Sweeten with monk fruit or stevia.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with breakfast or brunch
• Pair with grilled chicken, salads, or sandwiches
• Add sparkling water for a fizzy tea spritzer
• Garnish with orange wheels for entertaining

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Storage Information

• Refrigerator: Keeps 3–4 days in a sealed pitcher.
• Freezer: Freeze into ice cubes to chill future tea without dilution.
• Reheating: Not needed—best served cold.

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FAQ

Can I use herbal or decaf tea?
Absolutely—use any tea you love.

Can I make it sweeter?
Yes—add extra sugar or honey to taste.

Why add orange zest?
It boosts flavor with pure citrus oils that slices alone can’t deliver.

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History / Fun Facts

Iced tea has been a beloved refreshment in the United States since the late 1800s, gaining massive popularity after being showcased at the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair. Spiced citrus teas, influenced by European winter tea traditions, came later as a comforting blend of warm spices and bright citrus. This orange cinnamon version beautifully merges both traditions into a drink that’s refreshing yet cozy—perfect any time of year.