Top 10 Tea Blend Recipes to Try at Home
Welcome to the world of tea blends, where creativity meets flavor, and every sip tells a story. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 tea blend recipes that you can effortlessly craft in the comfort of your home. From the warmth of Chai Spice Tea to the refreshing Citrus Mint Green Tea, each blend holds a unique concoction of herbs, spices, and aromas that tantalize the senses. So, grab a cup of your favorite brew, and let’s embark on a journey to discover the art of blending teas.
1. Chai Spice Tea Blend
Overview
If you’re a fan of aromatic spices and a hint of warmth in your tea, then Chai Spice Tea Blend is your perfect pick. This blend combines black tea with a medley of spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and ginger, creating a rich and invigorating flavor profile. The robust and earthy notes of black tea mingle harmoniously with the exotic spices, offering a comforting and soul-soothing experience with every sip.
How to prepare:
Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons ground cardamom
- 2 tablespoons ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground allspice
- 1 tablespoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2-3 tablespoons loose black tea (or 6-8 black tea bags)
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix together the cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, allspice, cloves, nutmeg and black pepper until well combined.
- If using loose black tea, add it to the spice mixture and stir to combine. If using tea bags, cut them open and empty the contents into the spice mix. Mix well.
- Transfer the chai spice tea blend to an airtight container or jar. Seal tightly and store in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
- To brew a cup of chai tea, add 1-2 teaspoons of the chai spice blend to a tea infuser or tea bag. Place in a mug.
- Heat 1 cup of water until boiling. Pour over the chai spice blend and let steep for 4-5 minutes.
- Remove the infuser or tea bag. Stir in milk and sweetener like honey or sugar to taste, if desired.
- For a chai latte, froth warmed milk and pour over the brewed chai tea. Top with a sprinkle of the chai spice blend.
- Enjoy your homemade, aromatic cup of chai spice tea!
2. Citrus Mint Green Tea
Overview
Revitalize your senses with the zesty and refreshing Citrus Mint Green Tea. This blend infuses the earthy essence of green tea with the rejuvenating flavors of citrus and mint. The crispness of citrus and the coolness of mint complement the grassy notes of green tea, culminating in a revitalizing concoction that awakens the palate and invigorates the spirit.
How to prepare:
Ingredients:
- 6 cups water
- 6 green tea bags (or 6 teaspoons loose green tea)
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves (about 3 sprigs)
- 1 orange, sliced thin
- 1 lemon, sliced thin
- Honey to taste
Instructions:
- Bring the water to a boil in a kettle or pot.
- Remove from heat and add the green tea bags or loose tea. Let steep for 2-3 minutes. Remove tea bags and discard.
- Add the fresh mint leaves and citrus slices to the hot tea. Let steep for an additional 5 minutes.
- Strain the tea into a pitcher to remove the mint leaves and citrus slices.
- Stir in honey until dissolved, to taste. Start with 2-3 tablespoons and add more if desired.
- Refrigerate the tea until chilled, about 2 hours. Serve over ice.
- Garnish with additional fresh mint sprigs, orange slices, or lemon slices if desired.
This homemade citrus mint green tea is very similar to Starbucks’ popular Jade Citrus Mint Green Tea. But you can easily customize it with your favorite green tea and adjust the honey and citrus to your taste.
3. Vanilla Rooibos Chai
Overview
Indulge in the velvety smoothness of Vanilla Rooibos Chai, a blend that exudes warmth and comfort with every sip. Rooibos tea, known for its natural sweetness and earthy undertones, intertwines with the creamy essence of vanilla and a medley of chai spices, creating a luxurious infusion that offers a blissful retreat from the ordinary. This blend is a delightful symphony of robust, creamy, and aromatic notes that dance on the taste buds.
How to prepare:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups water
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 2 teaspoons cardamom pods, lightly crushed
- 1 teaspoon whole cloves
- 2 slices fresh ginger, quarter-size, lightly smashed
- 1/4 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
- 2 tablespoons loose rooibos tea leaves (or 2 rooibos tea bags)
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2/3 cup whole milk (or plant-based milk)
- Honey or sugar to taste
Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the water, cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods, cloves, ginger slices, and peppercorns. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes to allow the spices to infuse the water.
- Add the rooibos tea leaves (or tea bags) and simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Strain the tea through a fine mesh sieve into a heat-proof pitcher or bowl. Discard the spices and tea leaves.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, milk, and sweetener to taste.
- Serve the vanilla rooibos chai hot, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired. Store any leftover chai concentrate in the fridge for up to 1 week.
To make a vanilla rooibos chai latte, combine equal parts chai concentrate and steamed/frothed milk of choice. The combination of rooibos, warming spices like cinnamon, cardamom and ginger, plus the sweet notes of vanilla make this a comforting, caffeine-free chai perfect for any time of day. Rooibos is packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
Toasting the spices before simmering helps release their aromatic oils for maximum flavor. Feel free to adjust the spices and sweetness level to your taste preferences.
4. Berry Hibiscus Herbal Infusion
Overview
Step into a world of vibrant flavors with the Berry Hibiscus Herbal Infusion. This blend combines the tartness of hibiscus flowers with the sweetness of mixed berries, resulting in a visually stunning and exquisitely flavorful infusion. The deep crimson hue and the tangy-sweet profile make this blend a delightful choice for both the palate and the eyes, offering a refreshing and rejuvenating tea experience.
How to prepare:
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup dried hibiscus flowers
- 1 cup frozen mixed berries (raspberries, blackberries, blueberries)
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave nectar (optional)
- 4 cups water
- Ice for serving
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, combine the dried hibiscus flowers and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
- Remove from heat, cover, and let the hibiscus steep for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to fully infuse.
- Strain the hibiscus tea through a fine mesh strainer into a pitcher, pressing on the solids to extract all the liquid. Discard the spent hibiscus flowers.
- Add the frozen mixed berries to the warm hibiscus tea and let sit for 10 minutes to allow the berry flavors to blend in.
- Stir in honey or agave nectar to taste, if desired for a touch of sweetness.
- Refrigerate the berry hibiscus infusion until completely chilled, about 1-2 hours.
- To serve, pour over ice and garnish with fresh berries if desired.
The vibrant red hibiscus provides a tart, cranberry-like flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet, juicy berries. This refreshing infusion makes a delicious iced tea that is naturally caffeine-free. The berries add antioxidants for an extra health boost.
You can adjust the sweetness to your taste by adding more or less honey. For a fizzy twist, top with some sparkling water. This berry hibiscus infusion is incredibly refreshing over ice on a hot day.
5. Spiced Apple Black Tea
Overview
Embrace the comforting embrace of autumn with the Spiced Apple Black Tea. This blend marries the robustness of black tea with the luscious sweetness of ripe apples and a medley of aromatic spices. The fusion of fruity sweetness and warm spices creates a cozy and indulgent tea that evokes the nostalgia of crisp fall days and cozy evenings by the fireplace.
How to prepare:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups water
- 4 black tea bags (or 4 teaspoons loose black tea)
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1/2 teaspoon whole cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 2 cups unsweetened apple juice
- Honey or brown sugar to taste
- Apple slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Remove from heat and add the black tea bags (or loose tea), cinnamon sticks, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice.
- Cover and let the tea and spices steep for 5 minutes. Remove the tea bags and strain out the spices.
- Return the spiced tea to the saucepan and add the apple juice. Heat over medium until warmed through, but do not boil.
- Remove from heat and stir in honey or brown sugar to taste, starting with 1-2 tablespoons. Add more to reach desired sweetness.
- Pour the spiced apple black tea into mugs. Garnish with a thin slice of apple if desired.
- Enjoy the tea hot. Store any leftovers in the fridge and reheat as needed.
The combination of robust black tea, warming spices like cinnamon and clove, and the natural sweetness of apple juice creates a cozy, comforting beverage. It’s like apple cider meets chai tea. Steeping the spices directly in the hot tea helps infuse their flavors quickly. Whole spices will give the best flavor, but ground spices work in a pinch.
Feel free to adjust the spices and sweetness to your taste. You could also use a spiced apple cider in place of the apple juice for even more flavor. This spiced apple black tea is perfect for chilly fall days or anytime you want a warming, flavorful cuppa. The aroma alone is heavenly!
6. Ginger Turmeric Wellness Blend
Overview
The Ginger Turmeric Wellness Blend is a carefully crafted infusion of natural ingredients designed to nourish and revitalize the body, promoting overall well-being and vitality. This aromatic blend combines the warm spiciness of ginger, the earthy richness of turmeric, and a hint of zesty citrus, creating a harmonious elixir that supports a holistic approach to health.
How to prepare:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons freshly grated turmeric root (or 1 tablespoon ground turmeric)
- 2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger root (or 1 tablespoon ground ginger)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 tablespoon dried orange peel (optional)
Instructions:
- If using fresh turmeric and ginger, peel the roots and grate them finely using a microplane or fine grater. If using ground spices, simply mix all the spices together in a bowl until well combined.
- Add the cinnamon, cardamom, black pepper, cloves, and orange peel (if using). Mix thoroughly until the spices are evenly distributed.
- Store the ginger turmeric tea blend in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
- To brew a cup of tea, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Add 1 heaping teaspoon of the ginger turmeric blend to a tea infuser or directly to the cup.
- Pour the boiling water over the tea blend and let steep for 5-10 minutes, depending on how strong you like your tea.
- Strain the tea into a mug and add honey or lemon to taste, if desired. You can also add a splash of milk or non-dairy milk for a creamier cup.
- Stir well and enjoy your homemade ginger turmeric wellness tea.
Turmeric and ginger are known for their powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making this tea blend a great choice for supporting overall health and wellness. Black pepper enhances the absorption of curcumin, the active compound in turmeric.
The warming spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and clove add depth of flavor and additional health benefits. The dried orange peel contributes a bright, citrusy note that complements the earthy turmeric and spicy ginger.
Feel free to adjust the ratios of spices to your taste preferences. You can also use this blend to make a delicious golden milk latte by steeping it in warm milk instead of water. This ginger turmeric tea is a comforting, nourishing beverage any time of day.
7. Minty Chamomile Blend
Overview
Unwind and relax with the soothing Minty Chamomile Blend, a serene infusion of gentle flavors that calm the mind and the senses. This blend unites the gentle sweetness of chamomile with the cool freshness of mint, creating a tranquil tea that beckons you to pause, breathe, and indulge in a moment of serenity. The delicate floral and minty notes intertwine gracefully, offering a delightful respite from the bustling world.
How to prepare:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup dried chamomile flowers
- 1/4 cup dried peppermint leaves
- 2 tablespoons dried lemon balm (optional)
- 1 tablespoon dried lavender buds (optional)
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix together the dried chamomile flowers, dried peppermint leaves, and any optional herbs like lemon balm or lavender.
- Transfer the minty chamomile blend to an airtight container or jar. Seal tightly and store in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
- To brew a cup, bring 8 oz of fresh water to a boil in a pot or kettle.
- Place 1-2 teaspoons of the minty chamomile blend into a tea infuser or directly into your mug.
- Pour the boiling water over the tea blend and allow to steep for 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the infuser or strain out the loose herbs.
- Add honey or lemon to taste, if desired. Enjoy your soothing cup of minty chamomile tea!
The floral, slightly sweet chamomile is beautifully complemented by the bright, cooling mint in this herbal blend. Chamomile is renowned for its relaxing properties, while mint can aid digestion. The optional lemon balm adds a gentle lemon aroma and subtle flavor. Lavender contributes floral notes and may help promote calmness.
This minty chamomile tea makes a wonderful nighttime beverage to help you unwind before bed. Or enjoy it any time you need a moment of tranquility. You can adjust the ratio of chamomile to mint based on your flavor preferences. For a stronger mint taste, increase the peppermint. For more chamomile flavor, use less mint.
Steeping for 5-7 minutes will extract the full flavors and beneficial properties from the herbs. This soothing, fragrant blend is perfect for relaxing and resetting your mind and body.
8. Earl Grey Lavender Infusion
Overview
Embark on a sensorial journey with the Earl Grey Lavender Infusion, a blend that marries the classic elegance of Earl Grey with the floral allure of lavender. The brisk bergamot notes of Earl Grey intertwine with the fragrant and soothing essence of lavender, creating a tantalizing brew that captivates the senses and elevates the tea-drinking experience to new heights.
How to prepare:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups water
- 4 Earl Grey tea bags (or 4 tsp loose leaf Earl Grey tea)
- 2 tbsp dried lavender buds
- 1 tbsp honey (optional)
- Lemon slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Bring the water to a boil in a saucepan or kettle.
- Remove from heat and add the Earl Grey tea bags (or loose tea) and dried lavender buds.
- Allow to steep for 5-7 minutes to fully extract the flavors of the bergamot orange in the Earl Grey and the floral lavender notes.
- Remove the tea bags/loose tea and lavender using a strainer.
- Stir in honey to taste, if desired for a touch of sweetness.
- Pour the lavender Earl Grey tea into cups or a heat-proof pitcher.
- Garnish each cup with a lemon slice if you’d like.
- Serve the infusion hot or let it cool to room temperature to enjoy as an iced tea.
The classic flavor of Earl Grey tea, with its distinctive bergamot aroma, pairs beautifully with the calming floral notes of lavender in this infusion. The lavender adds a lovely purple hue to the dark tea. Feel free to adjust the amount of lavender to your taste preference – more for a stronger lavender essence. The lemon garnish complements the citrusy bergamot notes.
This lavender Earl Grey makes a wonderfully aromatic and refreshing iced tea for warm days. Or enjoy it hot as a soothing, fragrant beverage any time of day or evening. The lavender is thought to have a relaxing effect, while the black tea provides an invigorating caffeine boost. It’s an elegant and delightfully floral twist on traditional Earl Grey.
9. Matcha Ginger Latte
Overview
Experience the harmonious fusion of tradition and innovation with the Matcha Ginger Latte, a blend that combines the vibrant matcha with the warm spiciness of ginger, resulting in a distinctive and invigorating brew. The creamy texture of the latte, accented by the earthy matcha and the zesty kick of ginger, creates a compelling and unique tea blend that promises a delightful journey of flavors with every sip.
How to prepare:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons matcha green tea powder
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional)
- Pinch of black pepper (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat 1 cup of milk (dairy, almond, oat, etc.) until steaming, using a saucepan or milk steamer.
- Place 1 teaspoon of the matcha ginger blend into a mug.
- Add a splash of the hot milk and whisk vigorously with a bamboo matcha whisk or milk frother until the matcha is dissolved and frothy.
- Pour in the remaining steamed milk and stir to combine. Sweeten with honey or your preferred sweetener to taste.
- Sprinkle a pinch of the matcha ginger blend on top of the latte for garnish. Enjoy your warming, invigorating beverage!
The earthy, slightly bitter matcha green tea is balanced by the warm spiciness of ginger in this blend. Cinnamon adds a touch of natural sweetness and warmth. The optional turmeric and black pepper can boost the anti-inflammatory benefits. Whisking the matcha with a little hot milk first helps it dissolve fully for a smooth, clump-free latte. You can adjust the amount of matcha ginger blend to suit your taste – use more for a stronger flavor.
This matcha ginger latte blend is perfect for a morning boost or an afternoon pick-me-up. The matcha provides a gentle caffeine lift, while the ginger and spices are warming and soothing. It’s a delicious, health-supporting alternative to coffee shop lattes.
10. Cinnamon Vanilla Oolong Tea
Overview
Indulge in the enchanting symphony of flavors with the Cinnamon Vanilla Oolong Tea, a blend that brings together the floral notes of oolong tea with the warmth of cinnamon and the creamy sweetness of vanilla. This harmonious medley of flavors offers a captivating and aromatic tea experience, where the nuanced elegance of oolong intertwines with the comforting allure of cinnamon and vanilla, promising a delightful indulgence in every cup.
How to prepare:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups water
- 4 tsp loose leaf oolong tea (or 4 oolong tea bags)
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Honey or sweetener to taste (optional)
- Milk of choice (optional)
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Remove from heat.
- Add the loose leaf oolong tea (or tea bags) and cinnamon sticks to the hot water. Cover and let steep for 5-7 minutes, depending on the strength of tea you prefer.
- Remove the tea leaves/bags and cinnamon sticks using a strainer.
- Stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
- If desired, add honey or your preferred sweetener to taste.
- Pour the cinnamon vanilla oolong tea into mugs. If you like, add a splash of warm milk or non-dairy milk for a creamier cup.
- Garnish with an extra cinnamon stick if you wish. Enjoy your fragrant, flavorful tea!
Oolong tea, partially oxidized for a flavor between green and black teas, has a smooth, complex taste that pairs wonderfully with the warming cinnamon and sweet, aromatic vanilla. Steeping the cinnamon sticks directly in the tea helps infuse their flavor efficiently. Adjust the steeping time to your taste – shorter for a milder tea, longer for a more robust brew.
This cinnamon vanilla oolong tea is perfect for sipping any time of day. The oolong tea provides a gentle caffeine boost, while the cinnamon and vanilla add a comforting, dessert-like flavor without being overly sweet. For a stronger vanilla essence, you can use the seeds scraped from a vanilla bean instead of extract. For a spicier tea, add a slice of fresh ginger or a pinch of ground ginger along with the cinnamon.
This warming, aromatic tea is a lovely choice for crisp fall days or whenever you want a cup of something soothing and delicious. The aroma of cinnamon and vanilla is simply irresistible!
Conclusion
As we come to the end of our flavorful journey through the top 10 tea blend recipes, it’s evident that the art of blending teas extends far beyond mere ingredients. Each blend weaves a narrative of its own, offering a sensory experience that indulges the palate and uplifts the spirit. Whether you seek warmth, vitality, serenity, or indulgence, there’s a tea blend for every mood and moment. So, which tea blend will you craft for your next tea-time retreat?