How to Make Russian Tea: A Simple Recipe with a Rich History
Every Christmas morning, Mamaw’s kitchen smelled like Russian tea. Sweet, spicy, and a little tangy, it was comfort in a mug. If we were lucky enough to get a second cup, that’s because Dad hadn’t found the stash yet. While its name might suggest ties to traditional Russian culture, this drink is more of a uniquely American take on a festive tea blend. Usually made with instant tea, orange drink mix, and fragrant spices like cloves and cinnamon, it has become a nostalgic favorite for many, especially during the holidays. Whether you’re looking for a cozy pick-me-up or a way to share a bit of cheer, this recipe will show you how to make it from scratch. It’s simple and sure to become a family staple.
Ingredients Needed
This cozy, festive tea is an easy-to-make crowd pleaser, popular for its cozy blend of sweet flavors and warm spices. What makes this beverage special is the mix of simple ingredients that come together to create its comforting taste and depth of flavor. Let’s break down what you’ll need to make this homemade favorite.
Tea Options
The base of any good tea recipe starts with the tea itself. Traditionally, black tea is the go-to choice because of its robust and earthy flavor that stands up well to the citrus and spices. Options like English Breakfast or Assam work particularly well here. However, if you prefer something lighter, green tea can also be used, although it will bring a more delicate and slightly grassy undertone to the drink.
For those in a hurry, instant tea powders are often used to speed things up. These options dissolve seamlessly in hot water and deliver quick convenience without compromising on flavor. It’s worth experimenting to find the tea base that best suits your taste.
Fruit Drink Powder
The signature citrusy tang of Russian tea comes from powdered drink mixes. The two main ingredients here are orange drink mix (think Tang) and lemonade drink mix. Together, these create a bright, zesty base that pairs perfectly with the mellow flavor of the tea. While Tang is a nostalgic favorite, any similar orange drink mix will do the trick.
The beauty of using powdered mixes lies in their consistency—no need to worry about sourcing fresh fruit or juicing lemons. They dissolve easily and are a dependable way to achieve that bold citrus flavor.
Spices and Sweeteners
The magic touch of Russian tea comes from its spices. A pinch of ground cinnamon and cloves elevate the drink with warmth and depth. Cinnamon brings a cozy sweetness, while cloves add a slightly spicy aromatic kick. Both work together to invoke the scents and flavors of the holiday season.
When it comes to sweetening your tea, white granulated sugar is the traditional choice. It dissolves quickly into the mixture, giving the drink its signature sweetness. If you’d prefer a slightly more nuanced flavor, consider trying brown sugar for its caramel notes.
Whether you’re pairing it with dessert or enjoying it solo on a cold evening, the balance of these ingredients is key to getting that nostalgic taste just right.
Serving Suggestions
Once your tea is ready, how you serve it can make all the difference. While this drink is perfect on its own, you can jazz it up for special occasions or personal preferences.
Here are some ideas to elevate your drink:
- Citrus Garnish: Add a slice of orange or lemon for an extra zesty kick.
- Herbal Touch: Garnish with a cinnamon stick or a sprig of fresh mint.
- Holiday Twist: Serve in festive mugs with a sprinkle of nutmeg on top.
- Iced Variation: Chill the brewed tea and serve over ice for warmer days.
- Adulting Today: Add 1 shot (or 2) of bourbon per serving.
Pair your mug of tea with simple snacks, like cookies or spiced nuts, for a complete experience. The warmth of the tea complements most holiday or comfort foods.
Variations of Russian Tea
Russian tea isn’t a one-size-fits-all kind of drink—it’s more like a recipe you can tweak to fit your mood or time constraints. Whether you want something rich and warm or need a quick and portable option, there’s a variation for everyone. Here are two popular ways to enjoy this cozy beverage.
Making traditional hot Russian tea involves a few extra steps, but the result is worth it. The blend of freshly brewed tea, spices, and citrus is comforting on colder days. Here’s how to make it:
Brew the Tea Base: Start by steeping 2–3 black tea bags (like Assam or English Breakfast) in boiling water for 5–7 minutes. If you prefer a lighter taste, green tea is also a great option.
Mix in Citrus and Spices: Stir in fresh orange juice and a squeeze of lemon. Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a pinch of cloves for that signature holiday flavor.
Sweeten to Taste: Granulated sugar or honey works best—it’s all about balancing sweetness with tang.
Simmer for Depth: For a richer taste, let the mixture simmer on low heat for 5 minutes.
You can also skip the fresh juices and opt for concentrated orange or lemonade drink mixes if you’re short on time. Serve this heartwarming drink in a mug with a slice of orange or a cinnamon stick garnish for a cozy finish.
Instant Russian Tea Mix
Sometimes, you need a quick fix. That’s where instant Russian tea mix shines. This variation of the recipe can be prepared ahead of time and perfect for gifting or grabbing on busy mornings.
- Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Orange drink mix (like Tang)
- Lemonade powder
- Instant tea powder
- Granulated sugar
- Spices: cinnamon and ground cloves
- How to Make It:
- Combine 1 cup orange drink powder, ½ cup lemonade mix, ¼ cup instant tea powder, and 1 cup sugar in a large mixing bowl.
- Add 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon and a ½ teaspoon ground cloves.
- Stir everything thoroughly and store in an airtight container.
- Ready to Serve:
- Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of the mix into a cup.
- Add hot water and stir until fully dissolved.
One of the best things about this mix is its versatility. It’s great for making large batches for holiday gatherings or as small, thoughtful gifts with a festive ribbon. Keep some in your pantry for those moments when you want a warm drink but don’t have time to fuss.
Using the Wrong Ingredients
Not all ingredients are interchangeable when it comes to making Russian tea. Substituting loose-leaf tea for instant tea powder, for instance, can cause issues with texture and flavor. Similarly, powdered drink mixes like Tang and lemonade aren’t just for convenience—they give the tea its signature tangy kick.
Stick to the staples for authenticity. Using the wrong tea base or skipping the powdered citrus mix will stray too far from the familiar taste.
Tea as a Gift: Highlight the tradition of giving Russian Tea as a homemade gift
Offering tea as a gift is a tradition as warm as the tea itself. Russian tea blends—often featuring black tea with hints of citrus, cloves, or herbs—are prepared with purpose and care. It’s not just about giving something enjoyable; it’s about sharing a piece of yourself with someone else.
Homemade Russian tea mixes, for example, make a thoughtful gift. Families often prepare these blends during the holidays, packaging them in decorative jars tied with ribbons. Russian tea, in all its forms, stands as more than a beverage. It’s a bridge connecting people as a reminder of the shared human experience.
Russian tea recipes like this one aren’t just about the end result. The process itself—measuring spices, mixing powders, and watching it all come to life is a comforting ritual. It’s like making a little magic in your kitchen.
The tea’s cultural significance adds another layer. For centuries, tea has been at the heart of gatherings, symbolizing warmth and hospitality, as noted in this cultural deep dive.
And don’t forget the versatility! Try it hot for a classic winter pick-me-up or iced for a summer twist, like suggested in this recipe. Whether you stick to the basics or experiment with fresh variations, you’ll discover your own version of this timeless favorite. Why not make it tonight? With just a few ingredients, you can transport yourself to simpler times—and create a new tradition of your own.
Mamaw’s Russian Tea
Ingredients
- 4 cups boiling water
- 2 large tea bags spiced, pomegranate, regular, green or black tea
- 6 cups water
- 1-2 cinnamon sticks
- 6-8 whole cloves
- 12 oz canned pineapple juice
- 1 cup white granulated sugar
- 6 oz fresh orange juice or frozen concentrate
- 6 oz frozen lemonade concentrate
- 1 tsp ground allspice
Instructions
Place the tea bags in 4 cups of boiling water and let them steep for 4 to 5 minutes. Once the tea reaches your preferred strength, remove the tea bags and discard them.
In a large pot, combine 6 cups of water, a cinnamon stick and cloves. Bring it to a boil.
Combine brewed tea, pineapple juice, sugar, orange juice concentrate (or fresh squeezed), lemonade concentrate and allspice in boiling water. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
Lower the heat and let it gently simmer until you’re ready to serve.
Top with orange slices, fresh cranberries, star anise or any festive items you have on hand.
Notes
