Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Apple Cinnamon Tea Recipe – Ginger & Black Pepper Infusion

Introduction

There’s just something so comforting about a warm cup of tea, isn’t there? Especially when the weather turns a little chilly, or you’re just feeling under the weather. I stumbled upon this Apple Cinnamon Tea recipe a few years ago, and it’s become my go-to for a cozy pick-me-up. The warm spices, sweet apple, and hint of lemon are just perfect together. It’s a hug in a mug, honestly! And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make. Let’s get brewing!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average apple cinnamon tea. The addition of ginger and black pepper takes it to a whole new level of warmth and flavour. It’s subtly spicy, wonderfully aromatic, and surprisingly refreshing. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy the goodness of apples year-round. It’s a simple recipe with a big impact – perfect for a quiet afternoon or sharing with loved ones.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful tea:

• 3 cups water (720ml)
• 1 whole apple
• 1 inch piece cinnamon
• ?? inch piece ginger (about 1/2 inch is nice, adjust to your taste!)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (15ml)
• 4 black pepper corn
• ?? teaspoon tea powder (I usually use about 1-2 teaspoons, depending on how strong I like it)
• 1 tablespoon honey (15ml)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk about the stars of the show! Getting these right will really elevate your tea.

Tea Powder: Types & Regional Preferences

You can really use any tea powder you like! I usually go for Assam or Darjeeling tea for a robust flavour. CTC (Crush, Tear, Curl) tea is also a great option, especially if you like a stronger brew. In South India, you might find people using a blend of tea dust for a richer colour and flavour. Experiment and see what you prefer!

Apple Varieties: Best Choices for Flavor

I love using a crisp, slightly tart apple like Granny Smith or Fuji. But honestly, any apple will work! Just keep in mind that sweeter apples will result in a sweeter tea, so you might want to adjust the honey accordingly.

Spices: The Warming Blend of Cinnamon, Ginger & Black Pepper

Cinnamon adds that classic warm sweetness. Fresh ginger brings a lovely zing, and black pepper… well, it might sound odd, but it adds a subtle heat that really balances everything out. Don’t skip it! You can use a cinnamon stick or ground cinnamon (see FAQs).

Honey vs. Sugar: Natural Sweeteners & Their Benefits

I prefer honey for its natural sweetness and added health benefits. But feel free to use sugar if that’s what you have on hand. Jaggery is also a fantastic, traditional Indian sweetener that would work beautifully here.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s make some tea!

1. Pour the water into a pot and add the tea powder, ginger, cinnamon, and black pepper. Bring it to a boil over medium heat. You’ll start to smell those amazing spices!
2. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes. This allows the flavours to really infuse into the water.
3. While the tea simmers, peel and chop (or grate!) the apple. I like to chop it into small pieces so they soften nicely in the tea.
4. Add the apple pieces to the pot and simmer for another 2-3 minutes. You’ll notice the tea taking on a lovely golden hue.
5. Turn off the heat, cover the pot, and let the tea steep for 5 minutes. This is crucial for developing the full flavour.
6. Strain the tea into your favourite mug. Now’s the time to add sugar if you’re using it.
7. Let the tea cool slightly before stirring in the honey and lemon juice. Adding honey to boiling hot liquid can diminish its health benefits, so a little cooling time is best.
8. Serve warm and enjoy! And don’t forget to snack on those softened apple pieces – they’re a delicious bonus.

Expert Tips

A few little things that can make a big difference:

• Don’t overboil the tea, as it can make it bitter.
• Adjust the amount of ginger and black pepper to your liking.
• For a richer flavour, use filtered water.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

Spice Level: Adjusting the Black Pepper

My friend, Priya, loves a really spicy tea, so she adds a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the black pepper. It’s definitely not for the faint of heart!

Sweetness Level: Honey vs. Sugar Alternatives

I’ve experimented with maple syrup instead of honey, and it’s surprisingly good! It adds a different kind of sweetness that complements the apple and cinnamon beautifully.

Festival Adaptations: A Cozy Winter Drink

During Diwali, my family loves to add a pinch of cardamom to this tea. It makes it extra festive and fragrant.

Vegan Adaptation

Simply omit the honey or substitute it with agave nectar or maple syrup.

Serving Suggestions

This tea is wonderful on its own, but it also pairs well with:

• A slice of homemade cake
• Some light biscuits or cookies
• A cozy blanket and a good book!

Storage Instructions

This tea is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can store leftover tea in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just reheat gently before serving.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

Can I use apple juice instead of water?

You can, but it will make the tea very sweet. If you do use apple juice, reduce or eliminate the honey.

What type of tea powder works best for this recipe?

Assam, Darjeeling, or CTC tea are all great choices. Experiment to find your favourite!

Can I make this tea ahead of time?

You can brew the tea base (water, tea powder, spices) ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Then, just add the apple, honey, and lemon juice when you’re ready to serve.

How can I adjust the strength of the tea?

Use more or less tea powder. Start with 1 teaspoon and adjust to your preference.

What are the health benefits of apple cinnamon tea with ginger and black pepper?

This tea is packed with antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. Ginger can help with digestion, while cinnamon may help regulate blood sugar levels.

Can I use ground cinnamon instead of a cinnamon stick?

Yes, you can! Use about ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon.