Description

This comforting, aromatic tea blend elevates the natural earthiness of red rooibos with a warming kick of cinnamon and a bright note of fresh citrus. It is a naturally caffeine-free beverage perfect for evening relaxation or a cozy afternoon break, offering a deep amber color and full-bodied flavor without any added sugar.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups water (filtered preferred) (480 ml)
1 large cinnamon stick (broken in half)
1 strip fresh orange peel (2-inch piece, white pith removed)
1 tbsp loose leaf red rooibos tea (or 2 standard tea bags)
Liquid stevia or monk fruit drops (to taste, optional)

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Instructions

Boil the water: Bring the water to a rolling boil in a kettle or small saucepan over high heat (approx. 5–7 minutes).
Release spice aromatics: While the water heats, place the broken cinnamon stick and the fresh orange peel strip into a heat-proof teapot or glass measuring cup (at least 2-cup capacity).
Steep the tea: Add the rooibos tea (loose leaf in a strainer/infuser, or tea bags) to the container with the spices. Pour the boiling water directly over the mixture.
Infuse and test: Cover the vessel to trap steam. Let it steep for 7 to 10 minutes (approximate time). Doneness Test: Before straining, smell the steam for a distinct sweet cinnamon aroma and taste a spoonful; the flavor should be spiced but not bitter.
Strain and serve: Remove the tea strainer/bags, cinnamon, and orange peel. Pour into mugs and sweeten if desired. For iced tea, let the brewed tea cool to room temperature first to prevent dilution, then pour over a cup full of ice.

Notes

Why it works:

Aromatic release: Breaking the cinnamon stick exposes more surface area, releasing essential oils faster than a whole stick.
Flavor balance: The oils from the orange peel provide a bright citrus top note that cuts through the woodiness of the rooibos.
Temperature control: Using fully boiling water ensures the rooibos leaves open completely for maximum flavor extraction.

Key success warnings:

Avoid bitterness: Do not squeeze the tea bags or leaves at the end of steeping, as this can release bitter tannins.
Watch the pith: When peeling the orange, ensure you avoid the white spongy layer (pith) under the skin, which can add a bitter aftertaste.
Steeping time: While rooibos is forgiving, steeping past 10 minutes with the cinnamon stick may make the spice flavor overpowering.

Allergy alert:

This recipe is naturally free from common allergens (gluten, dairy, nuts, soy). Ensure your specific tea brand is processed in a facility safe for your needs.

Nutrition

Nutrition information is calculated using third-party databases and is provided as a courtesy. Since values vary by brand and produce, we suggest calculating them yourself for the most accurate results.