Homemade Vanilla Cinnamon Milk Tea – Comfort in a Cup

So, guess what? I made the coziest drink ever—vanilla cinnamon milk tea. It’s like a warm hug in a cup.
It’s sweet, creamy, and smells sooo good. I sipped it while watching a movie, and wow—it was perfect. The cinnamon and vanilla just work.
It’s super easy too. Just a few simple things from the kitchen. And you can make it hot or cold!
Wanna try it with me? I’ll show you how I make mine at home. Trust me, you’ll wanna make it again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Warm and Comforting: The perfect balance of vanilla and cinnamon makes this drink feel like a hug in a mug.
- Easy to Make: Requires just a handful of ingredients and comes together in minutes.
- Customizable: Adjust sweetness, milk type, and spice levels to match your taste.
- Caffeine or Caffeine-Free Options: Use black tea for a boost or skip it for a soothing night-time drink.
- Great for All Seasons: Serve it warm in winter or over ice in summer for a refreshing twist.
Required Kitchen Tools
To make the perfect vanilla cinnamon milk tea, you’ll need:
- A small saucepan for simmering the milk and spices
- A tea infuser (if using loose-leaf tea) or tea bags
- A whisk or spoon to stir the ingredients
- A fine mesh strainer (if using whole spices)
- A mug for serving

Ingredients
This homemade vanilla cinnamon milk tea uses simple, wholesome ingredients:
Milk (Dairy or Plant-Based)
- Whole milk gives the creamiest texture, but you can use almond, oat, coconut, or soy milk for a dairy-free version.
Cinnamon (Sticks or Ground)
- Cinnamon brings warmth and subtle sweetness, creating a perfect balance with the vanilla.
Vanilla (Extract or Beans)
- A vanilla bean provides the richest flavor, but vanilla extract works just as well.
Black Tea (Loose-Leaf or Tea Bags) – Optional
- If you prefer a tea-based drink, black tea adds a slight boldness. Otherwise, leave it out for a caffeine-free version.
Sweetener (Honey, Sugar, or Substitute)
- Adjust to taste. Honey adds floral notes, while brown sugar enhances the caramel-like flavors.
Star Anise (Optional)
- Adds a slight licorice-like depth, enhancing the overall spiced flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make the perfect homemade vanilla cinnamon milk tea:
1. Heat the Milk and Spices
- In a small saucepan, pour 1 ½ cups of milk (dairy or plant-based).
- Add 1 cinnamon stick (or ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon) and 1 star anise (if using).
- Split a vanilla bean, scrape out the seeds, and add both the seeds and the pod to the pan (or use 1 teaspoon vanilla extract).
- Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the milk is warm but not boiling.
2. Brew the Tea (Optional for Caffeinated Version)
- If adding tea, place 1 black tea bag or 1 teaspoon loose-leaf black tea into the pan.
- Let it steep for 3-5 minutes, depending on how strong you want the tea flavor.
- If using loose tea, strain it out before serving.
3. Sweeten to Taste
- Stir in 1-2 teaspoons of honey, sugar, or your preferred sweetener.
- Adjust sweetness based on your preference.
4. Strain and Serve
- Remove the cinnamon stick, star anise, and vanilla pod.
- Pour the warm milk tea into a mug, using a fine-mesh strainer if needed.
5. Froth (Optional for a Creamier Texture)
- If you love foamy milk tea, use a milk frother or whisk vigorously for a few seconds before pouring into your mug.
Variations for Vanilla Cinnamon Milk Tea
Iced Vanilla Cinnamon Milk Tea
- Prepare as usual, then let it cool.
- Pour over ice for a refreshing cold version.
Extra Creamy Version
- Use half-and-half or coconut cream instead of milk for a richer texture.
Spiced Chai Twist
- Add a pinch of cardamom, cloves, or ginger for a chai-like flavor.
Dairy-Free and Vegan Options
- Use oat, almond, or coconut milk and replace honey with maple syrup.
Caffeine-Free Herbal Version
- Skip the black tea and enjoy it purely as a warm spiced milk drink.

Serving and Decoration
Best Ways to Enjoy Vanilla Cinnamon Milk Tea
- Morning Wake-Up Drink: Pairs well with breakfast or pastries.
- Afternoon Treat: A great companion for cookies or light snacks.
- Cozy Nighttime Drink: Enjoy before bed for a relaxing end to your day.
Topping Ideas
- Sprinkle with ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a fancy touch.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- Drizzle with honey or caramel syrup for extra sweetness.
Storing and Reheating Vanilla Cinnamon Milk Tea
If you want to prepare this milk tea in advance or store leftovers, follow these tips:
Refrigeration
- Let the tea cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container or glass jar.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
- Heat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
- In a hurry? Use the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
Freezing (For an Iced Version)
- Pour cooled milk tea into ice cube trays and freeze.
- Add to freshly brewed tea for a chilled, flavorful boost without watering it down.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
---|---|
Calories | 120-150 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 18g |
Protein | 4g |
Fat | 3g |
Sugar | 12g |
Calcium | 150mg |
Nutritional values vary based on milk and sweetener choices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this without black tea?
Yes! This drink tastes just as delicious without tea, making it a caffeine-free comfort drink.
2. What’s the best milk to use for this recipe?
Whole milk gives the creamiest texture, but oat and almond milk are great dairy-free options.
3. Can I use ground cinnamon instead of a cinnamon stick?
Yes, but ground cinnamon can leave residue in your tea. If using, whisk well and strain before serving.
4. Can I use a different sweetener?
Absolutely! Try brown sugar, maple syrup, agave, or even a sugar substitute to match your taste preference.
5. How do I make this extra frothy?
Use a milk frother, immersion blender, or shake the tea in a sealed jar before serving.
Homemade Vanilla Cinnamon Milk Tea – Comfort in a Cup
Course: Uncategorized2
servings5
minutes10
minutes120-150
kcalIngredients
1 ½ cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
1 cinnamon stick (or ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon)
1 vanilla bean, split and scraped (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
1-2 teaspoons honey or sugar (adjust to taste)
1 star anise (optional, for extra depth)
1 black tea bag (or 1 teaspoon loose-leaf black tea) – optional
½ cup water (if using tea)
Directions
- Heat the Milk and Spices
- In a small saucepan, combine milk, cinnamon, vanilla bean (or extract), and star anise (if using).
- Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warm but not boiling.
- Brew the Tea (Optional)
- If using tea, add black tea leaves or a tea bag to the pan.
- Let it steep for 3-5 minutes, then strain out the tea.
- Sweeten and Serve
- Stir in honey or sugar.
- Remove the cinnamon stick and vanilla pod before serving.
- Pour into a mug and enjoy warm.
- Iced Option
- Let the tea cool and serve over ice for a chilled version.
Final Thoughts
This homemade vanilla cinnamon milk tea is the perfect warm hug in a cup, offering coziness, warmth, and a touch of sweetness. Whether you’re enjoying it hot or iced, with tea or without, it’s an easy recipe to customize to your liking.
Try it today and let me know your favorite way to enjoy it!
Conclusion
Homemade Vanilla Cinnamon Milk Tea is more than just a drink—it’s a warm, comforting experience in every sip. With its creamy texture, rich vanilla aroma, and cozy cinnamon spice, this tea is perfect for any time of the day. Whether you prefer it hot for a cozy night in or iced for a refreshing treat, it’s an easy recipe to make and customize.