Russian Tea Recipe: A Cozy, Spiced Winter Classic

Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, your blanket’s on standby, and something warm is calling your name. No, it’s not cocoa—it’s Russian Tea. This comforting drink is sweet, citrusy, and spiced to perfection. It’s like Christmas in a mug (and yes, it smells just as magical).

I first tried Russian Tea at my grandmother’s house during the holidays. It wasn’t just tea—it was an experience. The aroma of cloves and orange instantly turned her kitchen into a winter wonderland. Whether you prefer the hot Russian tea mix version or make it from scratch, this drink delivers nostalgia with every sip.

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Why You’ll Love This Russian Tea Recipe

This drink isn’t just tea—it’s comfort. The spiced Russian tea recipe is perfect for cold weather, lazy Sundays, or when you need a mood lift.

Here’s why it deserves a spot in your kitchen:

• It’s warm, citrusy, and spiced—basically holiday cheer in liquid form.
• It’s great for gifts! The instant Russian tea mix stores beautifully in jars.
• It’s incredibly easy to make—seriously, anyone can do it.
• It smells better than any candle on the market.

Let’s talk ingredients and get brewing.

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Ingredients You’ll Need (Serves 6–8)

For Russian Tea from Scratch

• 6 cups water
• 2 black tea bags (or 2 tablespoons loose black tea)
• ½ cup orange juice
• ¼ cup lemon juice
• ¼ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon grated orange zest (optional)

For Instant Russian Tea Mix

• 1 cup instant tea powder (unsweetened)
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup Tang orange drink mix
• ½ cup lemonade drink mix (like Country Time)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves

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Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

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How to Make Russian Tea From Scratch

Step 1: Brew the Tea

Start by boiling 6 cups of water in a saucepan. Add your black tea bags (or loose tea). Let it steep for about 5–7 minutes—you want it strong enough to hold up against the citrus and spice.

Pro tip: Choose a robust tea like English Breakfast or Assam. Weak tea gets lost in the mix (and no one wants watery Russian Tea).

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Step 2: Add the Citrus and Sweetness

Remove the tea bags and stir in orange juice, lemon juice, and sugar. Give it a taste—sweeten as needed. Some people prefer more tang, others like it mellow.

If you’re feeling fancy, toss in some fresh orange zest. It boosts the aroma and adds a natural brightness that’s hard to beat.

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Step 3: Spice It Up

Now for the fun part—spices. Add ground cinnamon and cloves, stirring until dissolved. Let it simmer for 5–10 minutes on low heat.

The longer it simmers, the more intense the flavor. Your kitchen will smell like the holidays—and your neighbors might show up uninvited.

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Step 4: Serve and Savor

Pour the tea into mugs and serve warm. You can garnish with an orange slice or cinnamon stick if you’re feeling extra festive.

Each sip should hit all the right notes: citrus, spice, warmth, and a gentle kick of nostalgia.

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How to Make Instant Russian Tea Mix

This old-fashioned Russian tea recipe is perfect for busy folks or those who love homemade gift ideas. It’s easy to make and even easier to store.

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Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine:

• Instant tea powder
• Tang orange mix
• Lemonade mix
• Sugar
• Cinnamon
• Ground cloves

Use a whisk to blend everything evenly. Make sure there are no clumps—no one likes surprise spice bombs.

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Step 2: Store It

Pour the mix into airtight jars or containers. Mason jars work great (and look adorable if you’re gifting them).

This spiced holiday Russian tea mix can last up to 6 months in a cool, dry place. It’s basically your winter emergency kit for cold days.

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Step 3: Prepare Your Drink

To make a cup, mix 2–3 tablespoons of the powder with 1 cup of hot water. Stir well and enjoy instantly.

The Russian tea with Tang recipe has that nostalgic sweetness that Southern grandmas have been passing down for decades. One sip, and you’ll get it.

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Traditional Russian Tea Drink vs. Southern Russian Tea

Let’s clear the air—traditional Russian tea (the kind actually from Russia) is quite different from the Southern Russian Tea recipe most Americans know.

• Traditional Russian tea drink: Brewed black tea served from a samovar (a fancy Russian kettle), often with lemon and jam.
• Southern version: The Americanized take — spiced, sweet, and citrusy. Think of it as Russia meets the Deep South.

Both versions are delicious, but the Southern one feels like Christmas wrapped in a mug.

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Flavor Variations to Try

This recipe is flexible — so play around with it.

1. Spiced Russian Tea Recipe (Extra Kick)

Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a deeper spice blend. Perfect if you like your tea with personality.

2. Caramel Russian Tea

Swap sugar for brown sugar and add a dash of vanilla extract. You’ll get a warm, caramelized note that’s hard to resist.

3. Herbal Version

Use rooibos tea instead of black tea for a caffeine-free option. It’s earthy and naturally sweet — great before bedtime.

4. Russian Christmas Tea

Add a cinnamon stick and a slice of orange while simmering. Serve in festive mugs. Bonus: it makes your home smell incredible.

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Why You’ll Want This Mix on Hand All Winter

Here’s the thing about homemade Russian tea mix — once you make it, you’ll find excuses to drink it.

• It’s the perfect easy Russian tea recipe for winter evenings.
• It’s soothing for colds (seriously, the lemon and spice work wonders).
• It makes the best Christmas gift in a jar.
• It’s affordable, quick, and tastes nostalgic.

Honestly, if you’re not sipping it in your pajamas while watching snow fall, you’re missing out.

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Tips for Perfect Russian Tea Every Time

• Balance your spice. Too much clove = spicy disaster. Start small and adjust.
• Use quality tea. The base makes a difference—cheap tea gives flat flavor.
• Simmer, don’t boil. You want warmth, not bitterness.
• Store well. If you’re making the mix, keep moisture out—it clumps fast.

Pro tip: Add a dash of honey if your throat needs extra soothing.

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Serving Ideas

This tea is lovely on its own, but pair it right, and you’ve got an experience.

Serve it with:

• Ginger cookies or biscotti for crunch.
• Lemon loaf or cinnamon rolls for cozy pairing.
• A warm blanket and zero responsibilities (my personal favorite combo).

If you’re hosting, pour it from a teapot for extra charm.

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Make It Gift-Worthy

The Russian tea recipe for Christmas gifts is a classic for a reason. It’s inexpensive, festive, and thoughtful.

Here’s how to do it right:

• Pour the mix into glass jars.
• Add a cute label and a ribbon.
• Include directions on a tag: “Mix 2 Tbsp with 1 cup hot water. Stir & sip joyfully.”

It’s that easy—and guaranteed to make someone smile.

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FAQs About Russian Tea

1. Can I use decaf tea?
Yes! Great if you’re making it for evenings or kids. It won’t change the flavor much.

2. How long does instant Russian tea mix last?
Stored properly, up to 6 months. Make sure it’s sealed tight and moisture-free.

3. What’s the best Tang substitute?
Use any powdered orange drink mix. Or skip it and use more lemonade mix for a less sweet version.

4. Can I make it sugar-free?
Sure! Use stevia or a sugar substitute—just adjust to taste.

5. Can I make this in bulk for parties?
Absolutely. Double or triple the recipe, keep it warm in a slow cooker, and let guests serve themselves.

6. Why is it called “Russian Tea”?
The name likely comes from the traditional Russian tea service (samovar-style), even though this Americanized version is quite different.

7. Can I serve it cold?
Yes! Pour it over ice for a refreshing citrus iced tea twist.

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Conclusion

So there you have it — a Russian Tea Recipe that’s as nostalgic as it is delicious. Whether you go with the traditional spiced version or whip up an instant Russian tea mix, you’ll end up with a warm, cozy drink that’s perfect for winter nights.

This recipe is comfort, cheer, and a hug all rolled into one mug. So brew a pot, curl up, and sip your way through the season. You’ll wonder why you didn’t start sooner.