Mexican Hibiscus Cinnamon Tea brings back warm memories of my grandmother brewing it in her small kitchen. The house always smelled of sweet cinnamon and tart hibiscus. She believed this tea helped her stay healthy for many years. Today, Mexican Hibiscus Cinnamon is cherished for its distinctive flavor and numerous health benefits, making it perfect for savoring hot in winter or iced in summer.
Why This Is The BEST Hibiscus Tea Recipe
This Mexican Hibiscus Cinnamon Tea is loved for its bold and refreshing taste. The hibiscus brings a tart flavor, much like cranberries, while the cinnamon adds a gentle, warm spice. A bit of honey can make it lightly sweet and perfectly balanced.
What makes this tea special is how easy it is to enjoy in any season. Drink it hot to stay warm in the winter, or serve it iced with sparkling water on hot days. Its rich smell, bright color, and simple ingredients make it a favorite anytime.
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Hibiscus Cinnamon Tea: Benefits, Risks & How to Brew it Right.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Description
Hibiscus has a bright, tart flavor like cranberries, which pairs perfectly with cinnamon’s warmth. This pretty pink potion is nearly magical. It was a favorite of both of my Abuelas who both lived well into their 90’s!
Ingredients
7 cups water, divided
2 cinnamon sticks
1/3 cup dry jamaica/hibiscus flowers
Instructions
1- Bring 2 cups water to a boil in a pot. Add the cinnamon sticks and flowers and cover tightly with a lid. Remove from the heat and steep for 1 hour or until cool.
2- Strain hibiscus-cinnamon tea into a pitcher and discard cinnamon and flowers.
3- Dilute with 5 cups of water.
4- Refrigerate until time to serve.
5- Serve hot or cold.
6- Sugar or honey can be added to sweeten.
Notes
Serve it cold with honey and a splash of sparking water if you are craving some bubbly.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Health Benefits of Hibiscus Cinnamon Tea
This tea isn’t just tasty — it’s full of health benefits thanks to its natural ingredients.
Cinnamon Benefits
Cinnamon may help lower cholesterol and protect the heart. It can also support brain function, improve focus, and has strong antioxidant and antimicrobial properties that help fight harmful bacteria.
Hibiscus Benefits
Hibiscus is packed with antioxidants that reduce inflammation and support overall health. It may help lower blood pressure, support heart health, aid digestion, and boost the immune system.
Honey Benefits
If you choose to add honey, it brings more than sweetness. Honey has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, supports the immune system, and soothes sore throats.
Ingredients & Substitutions
You only need a few simple ingredients to make this Mexican Hibiscus Cinnamon Tea at home.
Ingredients:
- Dried hibiscus flowers – gives the tea its bright red color and tart flavor.
- Cinnamon sticks (canela) – adds warmth and depth.
- Water – the base of the tea.
- Honey or sweetener (optional) – balances the tartness if desired.
Substitution Options:
- Hibiscus tea bags can be used if you don’t have dried flowers.
- Regular cinnamon sticks work well if canela isn’t available.
- Maple syrup or agave can replace honey for a vegan option.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make a perfect batch of Mexican Hibiscus Cinnamon Tea:
- Boil 2 cups of water in a saucepan.
- Add 2 cinnamon sticks and ½ cup of dried hibiscus flowers to the boiling water.
- Turn off the heat, cover the pot, and let it steep for 1 hour.
- Strain the tea into a pitcher, removing the hibiscus and cinnamon.
- Add 5 more cups of water to dilute the concentrate.
- Sweeten to taste with honey or your preferred sweetener.
- Serve hot or cold, depending on the season.
Serving Suggestions
Mexican Hibiscus Cinnamon Tea is wonderfully versatile. Here are some tasty ways to enjoy it:
- Chilled Refreshment: Pour the tea over ice for a cooling summer drink. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or a lemon slice for extra flavor.
- Warm Comfort: Serve the tea warm during cooler months. A cinnamon stick stirrer or a dash of orange zest makes a cozy touch.
- Sweeten as You Like: Adjust sweetness with honey, agave syrup, or a sugar substitute to match your taste preferences or dietary needs.
- Pair with Food: This tea pairs beautifully with light snacks like almond cookies, fruit salads, or Mexican pastries (pan dulce).
- Make It Sparkling: For a festive twist, mix the brewed concentrate with sparkling water for a fizzy, refreshing version.
Storage Tips
To keep your Mexican Hibiscus Cinnamon Tea fresh and flavorful, follow these simple storage guidelines:
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store any unused tea in an airtight pitcher or glass jar in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
- Avoid Plastic Containers: Glass or stainless steel containers help preserve the tea’s natural flavors better than plastic.
- Stir Before Serving: The tea concentrate may settle over time. Give it a good stir or shake before pouring.
- Freeze for Later: Pour leftover tea into ice cube trays and freeze. Use the flavored ice cubes to chill future tea without diluting it.
Variations & Substitutions
Customize your Mexican Hibiscus Cinnamon Tea to suit your taste or dietary needs with these creative ideas:
- Citrus Twist: Add fresh orange or lemon slices during steeping for a bright, tangy flavor.
- Spiced Version: Enhance the tea by including cloves, star anise, or a small piece of ginger for extra warmth and depth.
- Sweetener Options: Swap honey for agave syrup, maple syrup, or stevia to make the tea vegan or low-calorie.
- Herbal Boost: Mix in fresh herbs like mint or basil after brewing for a refreshing herbal note.
- Iced Tea Cocktail: Turn this tea into a cocktail by adding a splash of rum or tequila — perfect for entertaining.
- Reduced Sugar Option: Omit or reduce the sweetener entirely for a naturally tart, unsweetened version.
Health Benefits
Mexican Hibiscus Cinnamon Tea not only tastes delicious but also offers several health benefits:
- Rich in Antioxidants: Hibiscus flowers are loaded with antioxidants that help fight free radicals and reduce inflammation.
- Supports Heart Health: Studies suggest that hibiscus tea may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, promoting cardiovascular wellness.
- Aids Digestion: Cinnamon has natural digestive properties that can help reduce bloating and improve gut health.
- Boosts Immunity: Both hibiscus and cinnamon contain antibacterial and antiviral compounds that may strengthen your immune system.
- Naturally Caffeine-Free: This tea is an excellent alternative to coffee or black tea, providing hydration without caffeine.
- May Assist with Weight Management: Hibiscus has been linked to improved metabolism and reduced fat absorption in some studies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cinnamon and hibiscus tea offers a range of health benefits. Hibiscus is rich in antioxidants that may help lower blood pressure, improve heart health, and support the immune system. Cinnamon adds anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits, making this tea both flavorful and functional.
Hibiscus tea is known as “Agua de Jamaica” in Mexico.
It’s enjoyed both hot and cold in various parts of the world.
The vibrant red color comes from natural plant pigments called anthocyanins.
Some cultures believe hibiscus tea can bring feelings of calmness and relaxation.
Hibiscus tea is popular in many cultures worldwide. In Mexico and Latin America, it’s called “Agua de Jamaica.” In Egypt and Sudan, it’s a traditional beverage known as “Karkade.” People in the Caribbean, Asia, and West Africa also enjoy hibiscus tea for its refreshing taste and potential health benefits.
For most people, hibiscus tea is safe to enjoy daily in moderate amounts. However, excessive consumption may lower blood pressure too much or interact with certain medications. It’s best to consult your doctor if you have any health conditions or are pregnant.
Mexican Hibiscus Cinnamon Tea is a delightful blend of tart hibiscus and warming cinnamon, perfect for any season. Whether enjoyed hot on a chilly day or iced for summer refreshment, this tea offers not only a vibrant flavor but also a variety of health benefits. With endless ways to customize and serve it, this traditional drink is both versatile and nourishing.
Try making a batch today and experience the rich taste and wellness perks of this beloved beverage!
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