Cinnamon tea is one of the simplest yet most comforting things to sip in a mug–and it is so easy to make homemade. Make a fragrant and flavorful tea with just a handful of cinnamon sticks and water. 

One of the most beloved spices in my kitchen is cinnamon. It finds its way into sweet baking and savory cooking, especially in Lebanese recipes. Any hint of cinnamon and I am wanting more! A cup of cinnamon tea is one of my favorite ways to savor the spice. The soothing blend is more than just a delicious flavor; cinnamon tea is a powerhouse drink with impressive health benefits.

In this guide, you’ll learn what cinnamon tea is, the different types of cinnamon to use, how to make cinnamon stick tea at home, and why this comforting brew can be such a standout option for your overall health.  

What Is Cinnamon Tea?

Cinnamon tea is a simple infusion made by steeping cinnamon sticks (cinnamon bark) or ground cinnamon in hot water. Some versions use black tea or loose leaf tea as the base of this tea, while others are a pure, caffeine-free tea made only from the spice. My favorite version includes just three ingredients: cinnamon sticks, hot water, and a little honey.

Because cinnamon has a naturally sweet flavor, this tea like many herbal teas offers sugar-free sweetness and a rich, cinnamon-filled aroma, making it an excellent choice if you’re trying to reduce sugar consumption without sacrificing the pleasure. It can be served hot for a cozy winter tea or poured over ice as a refreshing iced tea in warmer weather.  

Ceylon vs. Cassia: The Different Types of Cinnamon

Not all cinnamon is the same. When making cinnamon tea, it’s important to understand the different types of cinnamon:  

• Ceylon cinnamon (true cinnamon):
  Often called “true cinnamon,” this variety is primarily grown in Sri Lanka and has a delicate, complex flavor. Ceylon cinnamon is usually lower in coumarin, a natural compound. For frequent tea drinkers, Ceylon is often a top pick.  
• Cassia cinnamon (Chinese cinnamon):
  Cassia cinnamon, sometimes referred to as Chinese cinnamon, has bold, robust flavors and a strong, spicy kick. It’s more common in supermarkets and often more affordable. However, some cassia varieties contain high levels of coumarin.

Both types of cinnamon can yield a delicious, spicy blend. If you plan to drink cinnamon tea daily for its tea benefits, Ceylon cinnamon is usually viewed as a safer, more delightful choice.  

How to Make Cinnamon Stick Tea

Compared with drinks that use artificial cinnamon flavor, brewing with real cinnamon bark or sticks is usually considered a more natural and often more flavorful option.  

Ingredients  

• 1–2 cinnamon sticks. Ideally you find Ceylon cinnamon sticks but any type of cinnamon stick will work. To use cinnamon oil here instead, use just one drop.
• 1 cup of water (about 8–10 oz).
• Optional: black tea or rooibos as the base of this tea. Rooibus is fragrant, wonderful tea that works nicely with the cinnamon.
• Optional additional flavorings to add to the mix: tangy apple bits, zesty orange peel, or a small slice of fresh ginger
• Splash of honey. LOVE the soft sweetness of honey in my tea of any sort.

Instructions  

1. Bring 1 cup of water to a gentle boil with the cinnamon sticks (and any optional fragrant ingredients like apple bits or orange peel).
2. Reduce heat and simmer for 8–10 minutes to get that strong cinnamon kick.
3. If adding black tea or loose leaf tea, remove from heat, add the tea, and steep for 3–5 minutes.
4. Strain into your favorite mug and enjoy hot, or cool and pour over ice for iced tea. I like to add the cinnamon sticks to the mug for flourish!

For a stronger flavor, simmer longer or add a pinch of ground cinnamon powder at the end. 

Make Ahead

You can make the cinnamon tea recipe, remove the cinnamon sticks, and store the tea in the refrigerator. Heat it on the stove just until boiling or drink it cold from the fridge over ice. A batch will stay flavorful for about a week.

Health Benefits of Cinnamon Tea

Simply put, cinnamon is associated with these health benefits:

• Cinnamon is often discussed in relation to heart health. 
• Cinnamon is widely known for its potential to support healthy blood sugar levels. 
• Cinnamon contains antioxidants that help combat free radicals

More Drinks recipes to try

Warm drinks abound on my site! Make a mug of Irish Coffee, Café Blanc, or Arabic Coffee.