Russian Tea is my favorite hot drink during the Winter months – it has the perfect hint of cinnamon and cloves while offering a warm orange and tea flavor.
This Russian Tea Recipe was handed down to me by my mother-in-law, and it has since become my 8-year-old son’s favorite beverage when he comes inside from playing in the snow.
Here is what you need in order to make it, it is pretty simple. Just mix them all together in a jar and then you have it!
Instant Russian Tea Recipe
This is such an easy recipe, where you can get an instant Russian tea mix in minutes by just stirring everything together.
Depending on how big your cups are, you could make 25 servings of tea with this mix, which can last this Mama about 2 weeks in the winter- unless we go ham on it!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cup Tang
- 1/4 cup Sugar
- 1/2 cup Instant Tea (I use Decaf so my kids can drink it too)
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup cinnamon drops
Directions
- Mix together in an airtight jar and keep in a cupboard.
- Boil water and add 2 heaping teaspoons for every 6 ounces of water.

Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cup Tang or orange juice
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup Instant Tea decaf for kids
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup cinnamon drops
Instructions
- Mix powders and spices together in an airtight jar and keep in a cupboard.
- Boil water and add 2 heaping teaspoons for every 6 ounces of water.
FAQS
What is Russian Tea typically made from?
Traditionally, Russian Tea is made from a combination of black tea, orange juice or peel, and various spices such as cinnamon and cloves.
However, over time, different variations and recipes have emerged.
Now, we may include ingredients like Tang, instant tea, and sugar to create a sweeter and more convenient version of the drink.
I’ve also seen some tea fans make this into a sweet treat by adding lemonade powder, and that lemon taste just can’t be wrong!
Can I use regular tea instead of instant?
Yes, you can use regular black tea and steep it in hot water for a few minutes before adding the other ingredients.
What are cinnamon drops, and where can I find them?
Cinnamon drops are small candies made of sugar and cinnamon flavoring. They can usually be found in the baking or candy aisle of most grocery stores.
Can I use honey instead of sugar?
Yes, you can substitute honey for sugar in this recipe. However, the flavor will be slightly different and may not taste exactly like traditional Russian Tea.
Final Thoughts
Russian Tea is a cherished tradition in our household, especially during the chilly Winter months. Its comforting aroma and delicious taste create nostalgic memories and bring warmth to any day.
I hope you enjoy this family recipe as much as we do and that it becomes a beloved part of your Christmas planning too.
Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying a quiet moment alone, Russian Tea is sure to be a delightful addition to your seasonal repertoire.
I can guarantee you that this will be your favorite drink once you try it! Enjoy!
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How many calories for one cup of Russia Tea?
a bunch. same answer for the amount of sugar. but its still tasty so…..
My Russian Tea recipe instead of sugar I use sugar free Country Time Lemonade mix.
I use sugar free tea and lemonade mix, so it’s sweet with zero calories from sugars.
yum!! Great idea!
You need lemonade for it to be real Russian Tea.
I have never used lemonade in my recipe. Will try that.
That’s cool. My father in law’s recipe calls for an equal mix of Tang and lemonade mix. Most other ingredients are telhe same but no Cinnamon candy.
Where can I find loose instant tea? I cannot find it in stores in Asheville nc.
Try Harris Teeter, Kroger or Whole Foods. But this uses instant tea. Love this!!!
I know the Lipton unsweetened tea mix shown in the photo is sold at Ingles, because I just bought it there, and I live in Asheville.
How many servings does this make?
Thanks. We made this as kids, i used Splenda to cut down ion calories.
I used Splenda last year instead of sugar…..do you notice more sediment in the bottom of your cup….almost a gooh!…..just wondering. Thanks and Happy Thanksgiving!
how many serving is this recipe?