You've probably encountered various spiced tea mixes during the holiday season, but have you ever wondered about their origins? This delightful blend has been warming hearts and homes for decades, becoming a staple in many families. By combining instant tea with unexpected ingredients like Tang and cloves, it offers a unique flavor profile that's both comforting and nostalgic. As you consider how to make your own version or share it with loved ones, you might find yourself curious about the history behind this cherished recipe and its evolution over the years.
Key Takeaways
- Spiced Tea Mix is a nostalgic holiday beverage featuring instant tea, Tang, cinnamon, and cloves, perfect for family gatherings.
- The mix is easy to prepare in large batches and can be customized for sweetness and spice levels.
- To enjoy, mix 2-3 teaspoons of the blend with boiling water, and enhance with a cinnamon stick.
- Store the mix in an airtight container for up to a year, making it ideal for gifting in decorative jars.
- Variations like Chai Tea Mix offer alternative flavors, providing a delightful experience during chilly days and festive occasions.
History
For over 30 years, Spiced Tea Mix, often called Friendship Tea, has been a beloved recipe linked to holiday gifting traditions. This delightful hot spiced tea gained popularity during the Christmas season, as it offers a warm, comforting beverage perfect for sharing with friends and family.
You might remember the cozy moments spent around the table, enjoying this unique blend of flavors that includes instant tea, Tang mix, and those aromatic spices—cinnamon sticks and ground cloves—that make each sip special.
The nostalgia tied to Spiced Tea Mix is palpable, with many recalling its comforting presence during family gatherings and festive celebrations. It's amazing how a simple drink can evoke such cherished memories!
Over the years, countless variations have emerged, reflecting personal tastes and regional flair, but the original ingredients remain the heart of this cherished recipe.
As you explore the history of Friendship Tea, you'll find that it's more than just a beverage; it's a symbol of connection and warmth.
Recipe
Spiced Tea Mix, often referred to as Friendship Tea, is a delightful and warming beverage that's perfect for sharing with friends and family, especially during the colder months. This unique blend combines the flavors of tea, orange, and spices, creating a sweet and fragrant drink that's sure to brighten any occasion.
It's incredibly easy to make and can be prepared in large batches, making it an ideal gift for the holidays or a cozy addition to your own pantry.
To prepare this spiced tea mix, you simply need to combine a few dry ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen. This versatile recipe allows you to customize the sweetness and spice levels to your liking, ensuring that every cup meets your taste preferences.
Once prepared, the mix can be stored in an airtight container and used whenever you're in the mood for a comforting beverage.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsweetened instant iced tea
- 1 cup Tang orange drink mix
- ½ cup sweetened lemonade powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
To make the Spiced Tea Mix, start by gathering a large bowl and adding in all the dry ingredients: unsweetened instant iced tea, Tang orange drink mix, sweetened lemonade powder, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves.
Use a whisk to combine the ingredients thoroughly until they're evenly mixed. Once well combined, transfer the mixture to an airtight container for storage.
When you're ready to enjoy a cup, simply mix 2-3 teaspoons of the prepared tea mix with 8 ounces of boiling water, stirring with a whole cinnamon stick to enhance the flavor.
For best results, consider adjusting the ratio of ingredients to suit your taste. If you prefer a sweeter tea, you may add more lemonade powder or Tang. Additionally, you can experiment with adding other spices such as ginger or nutmeg for a unique twist.
The tea mix can also be packaged in decorative jars or bags for gift-giving, making it a thoughtful and delicious present for friends and family during the holidays.
While Spiced Tea Mix is a delightful standalone recipe, you might also enjoy variations such as Chai Tea Mix or other flavored tea blends that incorporate similar ingredients like spices and citrus flavors.
These alternatives can provide a different taste experience while still being easy to prepare and share.
Final Notes
Enjoying your homemade Spiced Tea Mix regularly can bring a warm and comforting touch to both chilly days and festive gatherings. This delightful blend isn't just a drink; it's a nostalgic experience that reminds you of cozy moments spent with friends and family.
When you prepare a cup, simply stir 2-3 teaspoons of your mix into hot water for an instant burst of flavor. Want to elevate it further? Toss in a whole cinnamon stick for an aromatic twist!
Storing your Spiced Tea Mix is easy. Just keep it in an airtight container, and it'll stay fresh for up to a year.
If you're feeling generous, consider gifting some! Package 1.5 cups of the mix in decorative jars or bags, and attach a label with preparation instructions. It makes for an appealing presentation, perfect for holiday gatherings.
If you're in the mood for a citrusy kick, try adding instant lemon tea or sweetened lemonade powder to your mix.
Making this Spiced Tea isn't just about the ingredients; it's about creating memorable moments. So go ahead, indulge in this comforting blend and share it with those you love!
