Friendship Tea Recipe is one of those simple things that quietly brings people closer. Let me ask you something first. Have you ever tasted a drink and immediately wanted to know who made it and why they shared it with you? That was me the first time I had this tea. I still remember holding a warm mug during a casual brunch gathering in the 90s, listening to someone say, “This is an old favorite, you’ll like it.” I didn’t just like it. I asked for the recipe before I finished the cup.
The flavor was gentle but comforting. Orange and lemon came through first, followed by soft black tea and warm spices that felt familiar, almost comforting. It reminded me of winter evenings, shared snacks, and unhurried conversations. Later, I found the recipe written in an old cookbook, the kind with yellowed pages and notes scribbled in the margins.
Since then, this Friendship Tea Recipe has become part of my colder months routine. I keep a jar ready in the pantry for quiet evenings, unexpected guests, or moments when I simply want something warm that feels personal. In this post, I’ll walk you through how to make it and why it has stayed loved for so long.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
What Makes the Friendship Tea Recipe So Special?
This is not just another tea blend sitting in a jar. The Friendship Tea Recipe carries stories, memories, and a surprising bit of history with every cup. Let’s dig into what makes this warm drink stand out from all the other homemade teas out there.
A Recipe Shared Between Friends
The name says it all. This spiced tea mix earned its title because it was often shared. In the 60s through the 80s, it was passed from hand to hand, tucked into gift baskets, brought to potlucks, and gifted at church gatherings. You didn’t just drink it. You gave it away.
Many people remember getting a small Mason jar of this tea mix from a neighbor or relative with handwritten instructions. This ritual of gifting is part of why the Friendship Tea Recipe still holds meaning today.
It’s Not Really Russian
Despite being called “Russian Tea” in some versions, the recipe has no actual roots in Russian culture. It’s a purely American pantry creation that mixes Tang, instant tea, lemonade mix, and spices like cinnamon and clove.
The name likely came from the warm, spiced nature of the drink, which reminded some of mulled teas or Eastern European flavors. Over time, the name stuck. But the real story is much simpler: this is a homespun comfort drink, not a traditional Russian beverage.
Why People Still Love It
Part of the charm is convenience. You don’t need a kettle, strainer, or steeping time. Just a spoonful of the mix in hot water and you’re done. It’s also adaptable. You can make it stronger, lighter, sweeter, or caffeine-free depending on your preferences.
But above all, this Friendship Tea Recipe delivers a comforting, nostalgic flavor that feels like sitting down with someone who understands your day without needing you to explain it.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Friendship Tea Recipe
The beauty of the Friendship Tea Recipe lies in its simplicity. Every ingredient adds its own warmth, brightness, or depth to the mix. You likely have most of these items in your pantry already, and if not, they’re easy to find.
Core Ingredients
These are the foundation of the classic blend. Try to stick to these as your base before playing around with variations.
- Instant tea powder: Unsweetened black tea works best here. You can use regular or decaf depending on whether you want a daytime or nighttime version.
- Tang orange drink mix: This powdered drink mix gives the tea its signature sweet citrus flavor and that classic orange color.
- Lemonade drink mix: A tangy counterpoint to the orange. If you’re using a pre-sweetened iced tea powder instead of plain black tea, you may be able to skip this.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds cozy warmth and a holiday-like aroma.
- Ground cloves: Brings a deep, slightly spicy edge that makes each sip linger a bit longer.
Optional Add-Ins and Adjustments
While the original Friendship Tea Recipe is lovely on its own, you can always tweak it to suit your preferences.
- Cardamom or allspice: Just a pinch gives the blend a deeper, more complex spice profile.
- Extra sugar: If you’re using unsweetened mixes and want it sweeter, you can stir in a few tablespoons of sugar.
- Cinnamon candies: A vintage twist includes crushed red cinnamon candies. If you add these, reduce the ground cinnamon to avoid overwhelming the mix.
Can’t Find Instant Tea?
No problem. Brewed strong black tea can work in a pinch. Just mix the Tang, lemonade powder, and spices in your mug, then pour in hot tea instead of water. You’ll get the same flavor, just without the dry mix convenience.
How to Make the Friendship Tea Recipe Mix
Making this tea mix is almost too simple, which is exactly why it’s so beloved. There’s no boiling, no fancy tools, and barely any cleanup. Once you make a batch, it’s ready to use whenever you need a quick pick-me-up or a cozy drink to share.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Start by gathering all your dry ingredients and a large mixing bowl. Here’s how to bring them together.
- Combine the dry ingredients
In a large bowl, add 1 cup instant tea powder, 2 cups Tang, 1 cup lemonade mix, 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon ground cloves.
If you’re adding cardamom, extra sugar, or cinnamon candies, do that now. - Mix thoroughly
Use a whisk or large spoon to mix everything until the color and texture are uniform. You want the spices to be evenly distributed so each scoop delivers consistent flavor. - Optional: Blend for finer powder
For an ultra-smooth mix, pulse the dry blend in a food processor in small batches. This helps dissolve the mix faster and keeps spices from clumping.
Storing Your Tea Mix
Once everything is blended, transfer the mix into clean, dry, airtight jars or containers. Mason jars work perfectly for both storage and gifting.
Label the jar with the name and a simple direction line: Stir 1 tablespoon into 6–8 oz hot water.
If you’re planning to give it as a gift, we’ll go into that more in a later section.
Friendship Tea Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened instant black tea powder regular or decaf
- 2 cups Tang orange drink mix
- 1 cup lemonade drink mix powdered
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
Optional Add-ins:
- ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom or allspice for extra spice
- 2 –4 tablespoons sugar if lemonade mix is unsweetened
- Small handful of cinnamon candies reduce cinnamon slightly if using
Instructions
Combine ingredients:
- In a large bowl, mix instant tea, Tang, lemonade mix, cinnamon, and cloves. Add any optional ingredients now.
Mix thoroughly:
- Whisk until the mixture is even in color and spices are well distributed.
Store:
- Transfer to airtight jars or containers. Label with date and directions.
To serve:
- Stir 1 tablespoon of mix into 6–8 oz of hot water. Adjust to taste.
Notes
- Calories: 21
- Carbs: 5g
- Sugars: 5g
- Fat: 0.1g
- Sodium: 3mg
- Vitamin C: 2mg
- Iron: 0.03mg
“Stir 1 tbsp into 6–8 oz hot water. Enjoy!” Storage
- Store in a cool, dry place.
- Use within 6–12 months for best flavor.
How to Brew a Perfect Cup of Friendship Tea
Now that your jar is ready, it’s time for the best part. Making a mug of tea from this Friendship Tea Recipe is wonderfully fast, but still feels like a little ritual of comfort. Whether it’s a chilly morning or a late-night wind-down, this is the kind of drink that meets you where you are.
Making It Hot
Here’s the basic method for preparing your tea.
- Scoop the mix
Add 1 tablespoon of the tea mix to a standard mug. For a larger mug, use 1½ to 2 tablespoons depending on how strong or sweet you like it. - Add hot water
Pour about 6 to 8 ounces of hot water over the mix. Water that’s just off the boil works best. - Stir and taste
Stir well until the mix dissolves completely. Taste and adjust if needed. Add more mix for a bolder flavor or more water to soften it. - Give it a second stir
As you sip, the spices might settle at the bottom. Give your mug a gentle stir halfway through to bring the warmth back into the flavor.
Making It Iced
Want a refreshing twist on this cozy classic?
- Dissolve your tea mix in a small amount of hot water first to ensure it fully blends.
- Add cold water and a generous handful of ice.
- Stir well and enjoy a chilled version that still carries all the citrus and spice notes.
Whether hot or iced, this Friendship Tea Recipe fits the moment. It’s just flexible like that.
Easy Variations to Customize Your Friendship Tea Recipe
One of the best things about this Friendship Tea Recipe is how easily it adapts to personal taste. Whether you’re cutting sugar, avoiding caffeine, or just curious to try a new spin, there’s a version that fits you.
Light and Less Sweet
If you find the original mix a bit sweet for your taste, try these adjustments.
- Use 1¾ cups of Tang instead of 2
- Choose unsweetened lemonade mix
- Add your preferred sweetener to taste after mixing with water
- Start with a smaller spoonful per cup and adjust slowly
These tweaks give you more control over the flavor while keeping the cozy vibe intact.
Sugar-Free or Low-Sugar Version
Want to reduce sugar or skip it altogether? No problem.
- Replace the Tang with a sugar-free orange drink mix
- Use a sugar-free lemonade powder
- Keep the instant tea and spices the same
The flavor will be slightly different, but still delivers that citrus-spice balance.
Decaf for Evening Sipping
For a caffeine-free option, simply swap the regular instant tea with a decaffeinated version. It’s perfect for winding down in the evening without sacrificing any of the comfort.
Extra Spiced or Aromatic
Looking to deepen the flavor? Try adding:
- A pinch of cardamom or allspice
- A bit of nutmeg or star anise for a festive touch
- A few crushed cinnamon candies for nostalgic sweetness
These little additions create unique layers in the blend, letting your Friendship Tea Recipe reflect your own taste.
How to Turn This Friendship Tea Recipe into a Thoughtful Gift
A warm drink in a jar is more than just a mix. It’s a personal gesture, a small invitation to slow down and enjoy a quiet moment. That’s exactly why this Friendship Tea Recipe makes such a perfect edible gift. It’s easy to prepare, meaningful to receive, and cozy in all the right ways.
Packaging It Beautifully
Start with clean, dry jars. Mason jars, recycled jam jars, or small spice containers with tight-fitting lids all work well.
- Fill each jar with the finished tea mix, leaving a little room at the top
- Add a handwritten or printed label with the name and date
- Include brewing instructions: Stir 1 tablespoon into 6 to 8 oz of hot water
Tie a ribbon, string, or piece of twine around the lid. For a personal touch, attach a gift tag or note sharing why you love the recipe.
Who Will Love This?
Just about anyone. This Friendship Tea Recipe makes a lovely gift for:
- Teachers
- Neighbors
- Coworkers
- Book club friends
- Hostesses
- Family holiday baskets
It’s shelf-stable, looks pretty in a jar, and feels nostalgic even for first-time sippers.
There’s something quietly powerful about giving someone warmth they can enjoy on their own time. That’s what makes this gift special. It says “I thought of you” without needing to say much at all.
How to Store Your Friendship Tea Recipe Mix (and How Long It Lasts)
Once you’ve made your batch of mix, whether for personal use or gifts, you’ll want to keep it fresh and flavorful. Luckily, the Friendship Tea Recipe is as low-maintenance as it is comforting.
Best Storage Practices
To keep the mix in top condition:
- Store it in airtight jars or containers with tightly sealed lids
- Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or moisture
- Always use a completely dry spoon when scooping from the jar
Label each jar with the date you made it. This is especially helpful if you’re gifting or making multiple batches.
Shelf Life Expectations
Because all the ingredients are dry and shelf-stable, this tea mix keeps well for quite a while.
- For best flavor, use within 6 to 12 months
- Over time, the spices may lose a bit of their strength, but the mix is still safe to use
- If the scent fades, just use a little extra in your cup to bring back the flavor
Whether tucked into your pantry or sitting on someone’s kitchen shelf as a gift, this Friendship Tea Recipe holds its charm for months. A little care in storing it goes a long way in preserving that cozy comfort.
Serving Ideas and Pairings for Your Friendship Tea Recipe
Once you’ve made a cup of this tea, the only thing left to decide is what to enjoy with it. The Friendship Tea Recipe is versatile, comforting, and pairs beautifully with all kinds of treats or moments. It can be part of a quiet evening or a centerpiece at a winter gathering.
What to Serve With It
This warm, citrus-spiced drink complements sweet, simple baked goods and cozy snacks. Here are a few favorites:
- Buttery shortbread or sugar cookies
- Pumpkin or banana bread
- Cinnamon rolls or spiced muffins
- Ginger snaps or cranberry-orange loaf
For an afternoon tea setup, pair it with light finger foods and invite a friend or two for a relaxing catch-up. If you’re hosting a tea party, it adds a rustic, nostalgic touch among more elegant blends.
Make It Party-Ready
You can easily serve this tea at gatherings. Try this:
- Mix a large batch in a slow cooker with hot water and keep it on warm
- Let guests ladle their own cup
- Set out toppings like honey, cinnamon sticks, or a splash of milk for custom flavors
Looking for a cozy evening twist? Add a splash of whiskey, rum, or brandy to turn your Friendship Tea Recipe into an adults-only nightcap. The spices mellow beautifully with just a hint of spirit.
However you serve it, this tea feels like more than a drink. It’s a signal to pause, unwind, and enjoy the moment.
Nutrition Information for Friendship Tea Recipe
This homemade Friendship Tea Recipe is light, pantry-friendly, and easy to portion. Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per 1 tablespoon serving of dry mix (made with regular Tang and lemonade powder, no added sugar):
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
| Calories | 21 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 5 g |
| Sugars | 5 g |
| Protein | 0.01 g |
| Fat | 0.1 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.002 g |
| Sodium | 3 mg |
| Potassium | 11 mg |
| Fiber | 0.1 g |
| Vitamin C | 2 mg |
| Calcium | 2 mg |
| Iron | 0.03 mg |
| Vitamin A | 1 IU |
Note: Nutritional values may vary slightly based on the brands of instant tea, drink mixes, and any optional add-ins (like sugar or cinnamon candies). For reduced sugar or sugar-free versions, values will differ significantly.
Nutritional values are estimated and based on data from USDA FoodData Central.
Final Thoughts on This Friendship Tea Recipe
There’s something quietly powerful about simple traditions. A jar of tea mix, a few warm spices, and a shared moment over steaming mugs. That’s what this Friendship Tea Recipe has always been about.
Whether you grew up sipping it or just discovered it today, the beauty of this blend is how easily it becomes part of your rhythm. It’s more than a recipe. It’s a ritual a small way to bring warmth into your kitchen, your hands, and maybe someone else’s day.
So make a batch, gift a jar, or just keep it close for when the world feels cold. Because sometimes, a little spiced sweetness is all we need to feel connected.
More Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoy comforting drinks to share with loved ones, here are more warm favorites:
[Starbucks Medicine Ball Recipe] – A soothing, immune-boosting tea blend, ideal for cold days and sore throats.
[Honey and Apple Cider Vinegar Cleanse] – Sweet, spiced, and perfect for cozy fall evenings.
[Green Tea with Honey] – A refreshing and warming detox drink, great for digestion and wellness.
[Honey Trick Recipe] – A trending natural wellness drink to support energy and weight balance.
FAQs About the Friendship Tea Recipe
1. What is the difference between Friendship Tea and Russian Tea?
They’re actually the same thing. The names are used interchangeably, but neither has true Russian origins. The Friendship Tea Recipe is a nostalgic American blend made from instant tea, Tang, lemonade mix, and spices like cinnamon and cloves. The “Russian” part likely came from its spiced flavor, which reminded people of Eastern European drinks.
2. Can I make the Friendship Tea Recipe without Tang?
You can, but it changes the flavor. Tang gives the mix its signature sweet orange taste and bright color. If you substitute with another orange-flavored drink mix, you’ll get a similar profile, but it might not have that same old-fashioned charm.
3. What if I can’t find instant tea?
If instant tea isn’t available, you can still enjoy this tea. Brew a strong pot of black tea, then stir in the Tang, lemonade mix, and spices directly into your cup. It won’t be a dry mix, but the flavor will be close.
4. How much mix should I use per cup?
Start with 1 tablespoon of mix per 6 to 8 ounces of hot water. Adjust to taste from there. Some like it stronger, others prefer it mellow.
5. Can I make a big batch for a crowd?
Yes. For a group, add ½ cup of the mix per 8 cups of hot water in a slow cooker or large thermos. Keep it warm and let people serve themselves.
6. Is the Friendship Tea Recipe caffeinated?
If you use regular instant black tea, then yes, there’s caffeine. To make it caffeine-free, just use a decaf version of the instant tea.
7. Can I drink it cold?
Definitely. Dissolve the mix in a small amount of hot water, then top with cold water and ice. The result is a refreshing iced version with a citrus-spice twist.
