Baked tea with apples, cinnamon and vanilla
Autumn brings not only colorful leaves but also an abundance of apples – perfect for preparing a homemade baked tea. This warm drink with cinnamon and vanilla is not only delicious but also full of natural antioxidants and an aroma that warms every home. In this article, you’ll find a simple recipe you can make yourself, along with a few tips on how to enhance it.
Why baked tea?
Unlike traditional tea made from leaves, baked tea offers a unique flavor that comes from slowly roasted fruit. During baking, apples release their natural sweetness, while cinnamon and vanilla add warmth and support digestion. This drink is caffeine-free, ideal for evening relaxation, and a great alternative to artificial syrups or packaged drinks.
Baked Apple Tea Recipe
Ingredients (for 4 servings):
- 2 large apples
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (or 2 cinnamon sticks)
- 1 vanilla pod (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
- 1 liter of water
- 1–2 tablespoons honey (optional, to taste)
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
Instructions:
- Prepare the fruit: Preheat the oven to 180 °C (350 °F). Wash apples and pears, cut them in half, and remove the cores. No need to peel them – the skin adds extra flavor and color. Cut into larger pieces and place on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Spice it up: Sprinkle the fruit with ground cinnamon (or add cinnamon sticks between pieces). Slice the vanilla pod lengthwise, scrape out the seeds, and spread them over the fruit. Add the empty pod for a stronger aroma.
- Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes until the fruit softens and begins to caramelize on the edges. Stir occasionally for even flavor distribution.
- Make the tea: Transfer the baked fruit to a pot, add one liter of water, and bring to a boil. Then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes. If using vanilla extract instead of a pod, add it at the end to preserve the aroma.
- Flavor and serve: Strain the tea through a fine sieve into mugs. Sweeten with honey and add a pinch of nutmeg for a gentle spicy note. The leftover fruit can be used as a topping for yogurt or porridge.
- Serving suggestion: Serve warm, ideally with a slice of lemon or orange for a refreshing twist. The tea tastes best fresh but can be stored in the fridge for 2–3 days and reheated before serving.
Preparation time:
- Preparation: 10 minutes
- Baking and simmering: 45 minutes
- Total: about 55 minutes
Benefits
This baked tea is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a healthy addition to your diet. Apples are rich in vitamin C and fiber, cinnamon boosts immunity and has anti-inflammatory properties, while vanilla has a calming effect on the nervous system. Using fresh fruit instead of artificial additives also helps reduce sugar and preservatives intake.
Tips for enhancement
- Experiment with fruit: Add pear or plum for a different flavor combination.
- Winter version: Combine with cloves or ginger for a stronger, spicier aroma.
- Dessert twist: Once cooled, mix with a bit of yogurt and serve as a smoothie.
- Sustainability tip: Use organic fruit and compost peels and cores.
Conclusion
Baked apple tea with cinnamon and vanilla is a perfect way to embrace the cozy autumn mood while supporting your health with natural ingredients. This simple recipe lets you create a flavorful and aromatic homemade drink that’s gentle on both your body and the planet. Enjoy it on chilly mornings or as a relaxing evening ritual – just a few ingredients and a little time are all you need to bring a touch of autumn into your home. Enjoy!
