Russian Tea Mix with Tang

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Hot Russian tea with Tang is a vintage recipe that’s popular around the holidays. Make a batch of this powdered mix to serve guests at a moments notice, or simmer a large pot for a crowd. It has flavors of lemon, orange, and warming spices including cinnamon and cloves.

two glass mugs filled with orange drink garnished with lemon slices, on a white tray with jar of powdered mix.

Think of this recipe as an alternative to hot apple cider or mulled wine. It’s a family friendly drink that’s also known as Spiced tea or Friendship tea.

WHAT'S IN THIS GUIDE?

Instant Russian Tea Mix

This Russian tea brings memories of my childhood. It was made popular in the 60’s and 70’s as convenience products were all the rage, and my dad would always make it for our holiday parties with friends.

This is the recipe he made in the 70’s and 80’s and it’s the ideal hot beverage for entertaining! The taste is similar to apple cider but with citrus flavors instead.

Why You’ll Love It

What makes this unique from most drink recipes, is that you make a powdered mix and add hot water to it. This is nice because you can make one cup at a time whenever you want, or make enough for a crowd.

This tea mix is quick, easy and convenient to make and keep on hand.
It’s family-friendly so everyone can enjoy it.
It’s versatile. You can make 1 or 2 drinks at a time, or mix a large batch on the stovetop or crock pot for a party.
Turn it into a festive fall cocktail by adding a shot of vodka for adults.
It makes a great gift idea for teachers, neighbors or hostess’.

Ingredients

The two main ingredients are brand specific. It’s what I grew up using and they’re pretty easy to find.

Tang drink mix. This is the iconic orange-flavored drink mix available in most stores.
Lipton lemon flavor instant iced tea mix. It’s got the lemon and tea all in one.
Granulated sugar.
Ground cinnamon.
Ground cloves. If you don’t have cloves then swap it with allspice.

powdered drink ingredients in glass bowl.

How to Make Russian Tea

Add all the ingredients to a large bowl and whisk until well combined.
Pour the drink into a lidded canister to store.

hot water pouring into glass mug with orange drink.

Mix 2 tablespoons of the powder with 8 ounces of hot simmering water.
Serve and garnish with orange or lemon slice, or cinnamon stick and enjoy!

Make It For a Crowd

To make a large batch for a party, mix 1 gallon of hot water with 2 cups of Russian tea mix. Keep it warm on the stove top or in a crock pot and ladle into mugs to serve.

This would be a delicious beverage to serve for a Halloween pumpkin carving party,
Add this to your Thanksgiving entertaining menu.
It’s perfect for a Christmas cookie exchange, and you can include it for a Christmas dinner party.
Add this to a traditional tea party or serve it at a baby shower.

Storage

This makes about 3 ½ cups of the powdered mix. Store it in a container with a lid, a large flip top jar, or kitchen canister.

PARTY TIP: Give the mix as a hostess gift. Fill a lidded jar, add a tag with directions, and tie with ribbon.

glass mug filled with orange drink on tray with jar of powdered mix in background.

FAQ’s

What is Russian tea?

Russian tea is a hot beverage that usually contains lemon, orange, cinnamon and cloves or allspice. It has a sweet and citrusy flavor that is perfect for warming up in cold weather. It is also a traditional drink that can be enjoyed during holidays and social occasions.

Why is it called Russian tea?

After doing some research I discovered that the original version of black tea with lemon and sugar was sipped on by Americans in the late 19th and early 20th century in imitation of the Russian upper class. The introduction of convenience products like Tang and lemon flavored instant iced tea made it quick & easy to recreate.

PARTY TIP: Keep a batch of the mix in a large canister with a scoop for impromptu guests all season long.

More Hot Drink Recipes

Place the mix on your hot cocoa bar along with a carafe of hot water for a complete hot drink station.

Here are some other fall and winter drinks that will keep you warm on the inside.

When I was growing up, my dad would make a big pot of Russian tea and keep it warm on the stove during holiday parties. This recipe brings me nostalgia and joy when I think of it. I hope you’ll make it part of your get-togethers too!

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