Apple Cinnamon Tea
Apple Cinnamon Tea combines fresh apple chunks, cinnamon sticks, and a touch of honey into a fragrant, comforting beverage that balances natural sweetness with warm spices. Perfect for chilly days, this caffeine-free tea offers a cozy, healthier alternative to sugary hot drinks.
Ingredients
- 2 medium apples preferably sweet varieties like Gala, Fuji or Honeycrisp, cored and chopped
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 cups water
- 1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup optional, adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 star anise pod optional, for enhanced flavor
- 2-3 whole cloves optional, for added warmth
- 1 inch piece of fresh ginger sliced (optional, for a spicy kick)
Instructions
- Prepare the apples by washing them thoroughly, then core and chop them into 1-inch chunks. Leave the skin on for maximum flavor and nutrients.
- Combine water and apples in a medium saucepan and bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
- Add the cinnamon sticks and any optional spices (star anise, cloves, ginger) to the water. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the water takes on a golden hue and the apples soften.
- Remove from heat and gently mash the apples with a wooden spoon to release more flavor into the tea.
- Stir in lemon juice and sweetener if using, adjusting to your taste preference.
- Strain the tea through a fine mesh strainer into mugs or a teapot, pressing gently on the solids to extract all the flavorful liquid.
- Serve immediately while hot, optionally garnishing with a fresh apple slice and cinnamon stick for presentation.
Notes
- The tea can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated when needed.
- For a stronger cinnamon flavor, add an extra cinnamon stick or 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
- The spent apple pieces don’t need to go to waste – they make a delicious topping for oatmeal or yogurt.
- This recipe can easily be doubled for entertaining or made ahead for a week’s worth of warming beverages.
- For an adult version, a splash of bourbon or spiced rum makes this into a wonderful evening cocktail.