This Hot Spiced Tea Mix Recipe is a nostalgic homemade drink that’s warm, citrusy, and full of cozy spices. Made with Tang, instant tea, lemonade mix, cinnamon, and cloves, this classic “Russian Tea” mix has been a holiday favorite for generations.

Keep a jar in your pantry for chilly mornings, holiday gatherings, or as a thoughtful homemade gift. Simply stir a few spoonfuls into hot water for a comforting cup of spiced tea in minutes.


Servings, Prep Time & Cook Time

Servings: Approximately 45–50 cups (depending on serving size)

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 3 minutes

Total Time: 8 minutes


Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to make
  • Pantry-friendly ingredients
  • Perfect homemade holiday gift
  • Cozy and comforting
  • Stores for up to 6 months
  • Just add hot water

Ingredients for Hot Spiced Tea Mix

The Tea Base

2 cups Tang

2 cups sugar

½ cup instant tea

½ cup lemonade drink mix

These pantry staples create a bright citrus flavor with just the right amount of sweetness.


The Warm Spices

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

2 teaspoons ground cloves

The cinnamon and cloves give this tea its signature warm, comforting flavor that’s perfect for fall and winter.


Equipment We Love for This Recipe

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Hot Spiced Tea Mix Recipe: Easy Homemade Tea Mix
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Hot Spiced Tea Mix Recipe: Easy Homemade Tea Mix

This Hot Spiced Tea Mix Recipe is a nostalgic homemade drink that's warm, citrusy, and full of cozy spices. Made with Tang, instant tea, lemonade mix, cinnamon, and cloves, this classic "Russian Tea" mix has been a holiday favorite for generations.
Keep a jar in your pantry for chilly mornings, holiday gatherings, or as a thoughtful homemade gift. Simply stir a few spoonfuls into hot water for a comforting cup of spiced tea in minutes.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 3 minutes
Servings 45

Ingredients

  • 2 Cups Tang
  • 2 Cups Sugar
  • ½ Cup Instant Tea
  • ½ Cup Lemonade Mix
  • 2 tsp Cinnamon
  • 2 tsp Ground Cloves

Instructions

  • Mix everything and store in airtight container
  • Heat hot water 2-3 minutes in mug in microwave or on stove
  • Stir 2 to 3 tablespoons of the mix into the mug of hot water

How to Make Hot Spiced Tea Mix

In a large bowl, combine the Tang, sugar, instant tea, lemonade mix, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves.

Whisk everything together until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the mix.

Transfer the mixture to an airtight container or decorative glass jar for storage.

When you’re ready to enjoy a warm cup, simply stir 2 to 3 tablespoons of the mix into a mug of hot water and enjoy.


What to Serve with Hot Spiced Tea Mix

This cozy drink pairs wonderfully with:

It’s also delicious alongside:

For a festive holiday dessert table, serve it with Homemade Snickers Candy Recipe and Oatmeal Cookies Recipe.


Storage & Reheating

Storage

Store the dry tea mix in an airtight container in a cool, dry pantry for up to 6 months.

Freezing

Freezing is not necessary.

Reheating

Simply prepare fresh with hot water whenever you’re ready to enjoy a cup.


Frequently Asked Questions

How much tea mix should I use per cup?

Start with 2 tablespoons per cup of hot water. For a stronger flavor, use up to 3 tablespoons.

Can I make this as a gift?

Absolutely! Package the mix in a decorative mason jar with serving instructions for a thoughtful homemade holiday gift.

Does this need to be refrigerated?

No. As long as it’s stored in an airtight container in a dry place, it will stay fresh for up to 6 months.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes. You can decrease the sugar to suit your taste, although the original recipe is intended to have a sweet, classic flavor.


Final Thoughts

This Hot Spiced Tea Mix Recipe is one of those timeless recipes that’s been shared from kitchen to kitchen for generations. It’s warm, comforting, incredibly easy to make, and perfect for sipping throughout the holiday season or gifting to friends and family.

If you make this recipe, tag us so we can see. We love seeing how you style your food and bring a little Southern hospitality into your home.

Enjoy!

McKaylee & Michele
MckMich Collective