Orange Spiced Tea
A fragrant and warming spiced tea infused with dried orange peels, cinnamon, and cloves. Perfect for cozy gatherings or relaxing afternoons, this aromatic beverage combines citrus brightness with spicy warmth, making it a delightful treat for those who enjoy flavorful, comforting drinks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel the oranges, avoiding the white pith, and cut into thin strips.
- Spread the orange peel strips on a cookie sheet.
- Bake at 250°F (120°C) for 10 minutes.
- Allow the orange peels to cool.
- Toss the cooled orange peels with the loose tea, cinnamon stick, and whole cloves.
- Cover and store for one week before using.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, let the orange peels dry for longer than 10 minutes, or try using dried orange peel from your pantry. If you don’t have whole cloves, ground cloves can be used, but use half the amount. Adjust the amount of loose tea based on your strength preference; herbal or flavored teas can also be substituted for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this fragrant orange spiced tea hot, garnished with a slice of fresh orange or a cinnamon stick for added flair. It pairs beautifully with light pastries or cookies. For a refreshing iced version, steep the tea, let it cool, and serve over ice with a splash of soda water.
Storage & Reheating
Store the spiced tea blend in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. It can last up to two weeks. When ready to use, steep the mixture in boiling water for about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to strain before serving to remove the solid ingredients.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Spiced Tea contains roughly 56 calories, with 1g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (15% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of tea for this recipe?
Absolutely! While loose black tea is traditional, you can experiment with green tea or even herbal blends for different flavor profiles. Just keep in mind that the steeping time may vary depending on the type of tea used.
How can I sweeten the tea without sugar?
Consider natural sweeteners like honey or agave syrup, which can complement the spiced flavors beautifully. You could also add a few dried dates or figs during the steeping process for a subtle sweetness.
Is this tea suitable for special diets?
Yes, this orange spiced tea is naturally caffeine-free if you choose herbal tea and is also gluten-free. It can fit well into vegan recipes, making it a great option for a wide variety of dietary preferences.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).