Ah, black tea – the perfect brew for any time of year. While it’s often associated with British tradition and a warm cup on a chilly day, black tea can also be used to create a multitude of delicious and refreshing recipes that are perfect for sipping all year round. From classic iced teas to decadent desserts and even savory dishes, there’s no end to the creative ways you can use black tea in your cooking and baking.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 different black tea recipes that showcase its versatility and adaptability to every season. Whether you’re looking for a soothing hot drink on a cold winter morning or a cool and refreshing pick-me-up on a sweltering summer day, these recipes are sure to delight. So grab your favorite black tea and let’s get brewing!
Classic Iced Black Tea with Lemon
This refreshing drink is a perfect blend of citrusy zing and smooth tea flavor, making it a great pick-me-up on a warm day. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy this classic iced tea at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart (4 cups) water
– 4 black tea bags (such as English Breakfast or Earl Grey)
– 2 lemons, sliced
– Ice cubes
– Optional: sugar or honey to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring the water to a boil.
2. Remove from heat and add the tea bags. Let steep for 3-5 minutes, or until the tea reaches your desired strength.
3. Remove the tea bags and add the sliced lemons. Let it infuse for an additional 10-15 minutes.
4. Chill the tea by placing the pot in an ice bath or refrigerating it for at least 30 minutes.
5. Serve the tea over ice cubes, garnished with a lemon slice if desired.
6. Add sugar or honey to taste, if preferred.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Earl Grey Tea Latte with Vanilla
A delightful twist on the classic latte, this Earl Grey Tea Latte with Vanilla combines the smoothness of vanilla with the citrusy warmth of Earl Grey tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed Earl Grey tea
– 1/2 cup milk (whole or skim)
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream and vanilla bean for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew the Earl Grey tea according to package instructions.
2. In a small saucepan, warm the milk over medium heat until steaming hot.
3. Add the sugar and whisk until dissolved.
4. Stir in the brewed tea and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the latte into a cup and garnish with whipped cream and a vanilla bean, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (brewing time included)
Enjoy your delicious Earl Grey Tea Latte with Vanilla!
Spiced Chai Black Tea
Warm up with a soothing cup of Spiced Chai Black Tea, perfect for cozying up on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon loose-leaf black tea (such as Assam or Darjeeling)
– 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
– 4-6 whole cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1 cup water
– Honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the loose-leaf tea, cinnamon stick pieces, whole cloves, ginger, cardamom, and black pepper.
2. Add 1 cup of cold water to the saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the tea has reached your desired strength.
4. Strain the tea into a teapot or individual cups using a strainer or cheesecloth.
5. Add honey or sugar to taste, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Black Tea and Honey Glazed Chicken
This sweet and savory chicken dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The black tea adds a depth of flavor while the honey provides a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup brewed black tea, cooled
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together cooled black tea, honey, soy sauce, and olive oil.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the glaze all over them.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Black Tea Infused Chocolate Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this unique recipe that combines the depth of black tea with the richness of dark chocolate. The result is a mocha-flavored cake that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 tablespoons black tea leaves (strong brewed and cooled)
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine milk, eggs, and brewed black tea. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
5. Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler. Allow to cool slightly.
6. Fold the melted chocolate into the cake batter until well combined.
7. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Bubble Tea with Black Tea and Tapioca Pearls
Create a unique and tasty drink by combining the richness of black tea with the chewy delight of tapioca pearls.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed black tea (cooled)
– 1 cup milk or creamy alternative
– 1/2 cup tapioca pearls
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Brew 1 cup of strong black tea and let it cool to room temperature.
2. In a large glass, combine the cooled black tea, milk or creamy alternative, and honey (if using). Stir well to combine.
3. Add tapioca pearls to the mixture and stir gently to distribute evenly.
4. Fill the glass with ice cubes and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None required! This recipe is quick and easy to prepare.
Black Tea and Ginger Kombucha
Experience the perfect blend of earthy black tea and spicy ginger in this refreshing kombucha recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast)
– 4 cups water
– 1 cup strong brewed black tea, cooled
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 piece fresh ginger, peeled and sliced thinly
– 1 tablespoon starter tea from a previous batch
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil and add the sugar, stirring until dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and add the cooled black tea, allowing it to steep for at least 5 minutes.
3. Add the sliced ginger and starter tea to the liquid mixture.
4. Place the SCOBY in the liquid and cover the container with a breathable cloth or paper towel.
5. Ferment at room temperature (68°F – 72°F) for 7-14 days, shaking the container daily.
6. After fermentation, strain the kombucha through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bottle.
Cooking Time:
– Primary fermentation: 7-14 days
– Bottling and second fermentation: None
Black Tea Poached Pears with Cinnamon
Elevate your dessert game with this unique and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of black tea with the sweetness of pears. This aromatic poaching liquid infuses the pears with a deep, velvety flavor that’s perfect for a cozy evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou work well)
– 1 cup strong brewed black tea
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the brewed black tea, brown sugar, and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add the cinnamon stick pieces to the poaching liquid and stir to combine.
3. Peel, core, and halve the pears. Place them in a large bowl or individual ramekins.
4. Pour the hot tea mixture over the pears, making sure they’re fully submerged.
5. Cover the saucepan with a lid or plastic wrap and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pears are tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Remove the pears from the poaching liquid with a slotted spoon and serve warm. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Black Tea and Citrus Sangria
This refreshing sangria combines the bold flavors of black tea with the brightness of citrus fruits, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a relaxing evening at home. With its subtle tea undertones and tangy citrus notes, this recipe is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed black tea
– 1 bottle white wine (chardonnay or sauvignon blanc work well)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, dissolved)
– Slices of orange, lemon, and lime
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine brewed tea and white wine.
2. Add freshly squeezed orange juice and simple syrup; stir until well combined.
3. Add slices of orange, lemon, and lime to the pitcher.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with fresh mint leaves and additional citrus slices, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (refrigeration only)
Black Tea Smoked Salmon
Experience the bold flavors of black tea and smoky goodness with this simple yet impressive recipe for Black Tea Smoked Salmon. This dish is perfect for a dinner party or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup strong brewed black tea
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp liquid smoke
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the brewed black tea, brown sugar, and liquid smoke until well combined.
3. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and brush both sides with the black tea mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Smoke or grill the salmon for 30-40 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Black Tea and Lavender Scones
Experience the subtle elegance of lavender and the richness of black tea in these unique scones, perfect for a sophisticated breakfast or afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon dried lavender buds
– 2 teaspoons loose-leaf black tea leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add cold butter; use a pastry blender or fingers to work into the dry ingredients until coarse crumbs form.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, egg, lavender buds, and black tea leaves.
5. Pour wet ingredients over dry ingredients; stir until dough forms.
6. Turn onto a floured surface; gently knead 2-3 times.
7. Pat into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into wedges.
8. Place on prepared baking sheet; bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden.
Black Tea and Peach Smoothie
Combine the soothing qualities of black tea with the sweetness of peaches to create a unique and revitalizing smoothie perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed black tea, cooled
– 1 ripe peach, diced
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the cooled black tea, diced peach, and plain yogurt.
2. Add the honey and blend until smooth.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness as desired.
4. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
5. Blend again until ice is crushed to your liking.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy to prepare.
Black Tea Brined Pork Chops
Elevate your pork chops game with a unique flavor profile that combines the richness of black tea and the sweetness of brown sugar. This recipe yields tender, juicy, and aromatic chops perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 1 cup strong brewed black tea
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup kosher salt
– 2 tbsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together tea, sugar, salt, and pepper until dissolved.
2. Add the pork chops to the brine and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill or skillet to medium-high heat.
4. Remove pork chops from brine and pat dry with paper towels.
5. Grill or cook the pork chops for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Tea and Cardamom Rice Pudding
This comforting rice pudding combines the soothing warmth of black tea with the aromatic spice of cardamom, perfect for a cozy evening treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups whole milk
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon loose-leaf black tea or 1 tea bag
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine rice and milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low, add salt, cardamom, tea (or tea bag), and sugar. Simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the pudding thickens.
3. Remove from heat; stir in melted butter.
4. Let cool slightly before serving warm.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Black Tea and Mint Lemonade
This unique lemonade recipe combines the bold flavors of black tea and fresh mint, creating a refreshing summer drink that’s perfect for hot days.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart water
– 4 tea bags (strong black tea)
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup sugar
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Brew the tea bags in boiling water for 5 minutes, then let it cool.
2. In a large pitcher, combine the cooled tea, mint leaves, and lemon juice. Stir well to combine.
3. Add sugar to taste and stir until dissolved.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Serve the Black Tea and Mint Lemonade over ice and garnish with additional fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (brewing tea), 30 minutes (chilling)
Black Tea Marinated Tofu Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the savory flavor of black tea with the tender texture of marinated tofu, all wrapped up in a quick and easy stir-fry. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons black tea leaves (strong brewed)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– Your choice of stir-fry vegetables (e.g. bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together brewed black tea, soy sauce, honey, and grated ginger.
2. Add tofu cubes and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Remove tofu from marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
5. Stir-fry tofu with your choice of vegetables until cooked through and tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Black Tea and Coconut Panna Cotta
This unique dessert combines the rich flavors of black tea with the creamy sweetness of coconut panna cotta, creating a refreshing and exotic treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 2 teaspoons loose-leaf black tea (such as Assam or Ceylon)
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and add unsweetened shredded coconut. Let it steep for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl. Discard the solids.
4. Add loose-leaf black tea and let it steep for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the tea has reached your desired strength.
5. Remove the tea leaves and stir in honey to taste.
6. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate until set, at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (prep) + refrigeration time
Black Tea and Rosemary Roasted Nuts
Elevate your snack game with this aromatic fusion of black tea and rosemary, perfectly balanced to tantalize your senses. This recipe yields a crunchy, flavorful medley that’s perfect for munching on while watching the stars or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, pecans, hazelnuts)
– 2 teaspoons loose-leaf black tea
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together black tea and olive oil.
3. Add the chopped rosemary and mix until well combined.
4. Toss in the mixed nuts until they’re evenly coated with the tea-rosemary mixture.
5. Spread the nut mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 15 minutes or until fragrant and lightly browned, stirring halfway through.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of black tea with these 18 refreshing recipes for every season. From classic iced tea with lemon to spiced chai and bubble tea, you’ll find the perfect brew to suit your taste buds. Experiment with sweet treats like black tea infused chocolate cake or try savory dishes like black tea glazed chicken or smoked salmon. For a twist on traditional drinks, try black tea sangria, kombucha, or mint lemonade. And don’t forget about breakfast and brunch options like scones, smoothies, and rice pudding. There’s something for everyone in this comprehensive collection of black tea recipes.