Orange Spiced Hibiscus Iced Tea

There’s a sweet spot between late summer and early fall where the days are still warm enough for iced drinks, but your taste buds start craving a little more coziness. This Orange Spiced Hibiscus Iced Tea is exactly that mood in a glass — bright, tangy hibiscus for sunny afternoons, balanced with warm cinnamon and fragrant orange peel to hint at the season ahead. It’s the perfect bridge drink: refreshing enough for the heat, but with just enough spice to make you think about sweaters, falling leaves, and cozy evenings.

Instructions

1. Simmer the flavor base – In a medium saucepan, add hibiscus flowers, orange peel, and cinnamon sticks to 2 cups of water. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes.

2. Steep for depth – Turn off the heat, cover, and let the mixture steep for 15 minutes.

3. Strain & combine – Strain the tea concentrate into a heat-safe pitcher. Add 2 cups of room temperature water.

4. Cool it down instantly – Pour the tea over a large jar or pitcher filled with ice. This “flash chilling” locks in the bright flavor.

5. Sweeten & serve – If desired, stir in your sweetener of choice while the tea is still slightly warm. Garnish with orange slices.

Storage Tips

• Fridge life: Store any leftover tea (without ice) in the fridge for up to 4 days.

• Freeze for later: Freeze in ice cube trays — perfect for adding to sparkling water without diluting flavor.

• Pre-sweeten or not: Keep unsweetened in the fridge, then sweeten by the glass so everyone can adjust to their taste.

Ingredient Swaps

• Spice switch: Swap cinnamon sticks for 4–5 whole cloves or a small piece of fresh ginger for a warmer spice note.

• Citrus swap: Use lemon or tangerine peel instead of orange for a different citrus twist.

• Sweetener swap: Try agave, maple syrup, or simple syrup for a vegan-friendly version.

3 Cute Drink Ideas Using This Tea

1. Citrus Bloom Cooler – Orange Spiced Hibiscus Tea + sparkling water + a squeeze of lime.

2. Sunset Mocktail – Orange Spiced Hibiscus Tea + pineapple juice + mint leaves.

3. Spiced Arnold Palmer – Orange Spiced Hibiscus Tea + lemonade, served over crushed ice.