Some drink recipes fade with the decades, and some stick around in handwritten recipe boxes and community cookbooks for generations. “Russian” Tea Mix belongs firmly in the second group. It’s a simple powdered mix made from orange drink powder, instant tea, sugar, powdered lemonade mix, and warm spices like cinnamon and cloves. Stir a few spoonfuls into hot or cold water, and it turns into a sweet, citrusy, spiced drink that instantly feels like the holidays.
Despite the name, there’s no real evidence of any connection to Russia, and it seems to simply be one of those old-fashioned American recipes that picked up a name along the way and never let go of it. It takes about 5 minutes to mix up, needs no cooking, and makes 30 servings from one batch, which makes it perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy nights in, and homemade gifts. This guide covers the complete recipe, what each ingredient contributes, tips for getting the flavor just right, and plenty of ideas for variations, storage, and serving.
What Is “Russian” Tea Mix?
“Russian” Tea Mix is a powdered drink mix designed to be stirred into water, cup by cup, whenever you want a warm and comforting drink. Think of it as a cross between spiced cider and sweetened citrus tea, made shelf-stable and ready in seconds.
The mix combines orange drink powder and powdered lemonade mix for its citrusy backbone, instant tea for a familiar tea flavor, sugar for sweetness, and warming cinnamon and cloves for that classic holiday spice. Because everything is already dry and pre-mixed, there’s no steeping, no simmering, and no waiting. Just a spoonful in a mug of water, hot or cold, and it’s ready to drink.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in 5 minutes. Everything mixes together in one bowl.
- No cooking required. Just whisk and store.
- Big batch, long shelf life. One batch makes 30 servings and keeps well.
- Works hot or cold. Traditionally served hot, but just as good over ice.
- Nostalgic flavor. Citrus and warm spice taste like the holidays in a mug.
- Great for guests. Keep a jar on hand for effortless hot drinks when company comes over.
- Inexpensive to make. A handful of pantry ingredients go a long way.
- Perfect for gifting. Looks lovely in a jar and costs very little to put together.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredient list is short, and each item plays an important role in the final flavor.
Orange Drink Mix
You need 1 cup of orange drink mix, such as Tang. This is the backbone of the recipe, providing the bright citrus flavor and most of the drink’s color. Any powdered orange drink mix will work in its place.
Instant Tea Powder
You need ½ cup of instant tea powder. It gives the drink its tea base and a little natural tannin, rounding out the sweetness of the citrus and sugar. Look for plain, unsweetened instant tea rather than a pre-sweetened blend, since the sugar is already accounted for separately in this recipe.
Granulated Sugar
You need ½ cup of granulated sugar. It sweetens the mix and balances the tartness of the orange and lemon flavors.
Powdered Lemonade Mix
You need 2 tablespoons of powdered lemonade mix. This adds a layer of tart lemon flavor that brightens the drink and complements the orange.
Cinnamon
You need 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. It’s the dominant warm spice in the mix and gives the drink its cozy, holiday character.
Cloves
You need ½ teaspoon of ground cloves. Cloves are strong, so a little goes a long way, adding depth and a slightly peppery warmth alongside the cinnamon.
Equipment
- A small mixing bowl
- A whisk or spoon
- A jar or other airtight container for storage
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A mug for serving
How to Make “Russian” Tea Mix, Step by Step
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
Add the orange drink mix, instant tea powder, granulated sugar, powdered lemonade mix, cinnamon, and cloves to a small bowl or jar.
Step 2: Whisk Until Combined
Whisk everything together until fully and evenly combined, with no pockets of any single ingredient. A dry whisk works well, or you can seal the jar and shake it thoroughly.
Step 3: Store
Transfer the mix to an airtight container if it isn’t already in one, and store it until ready to use.
Step 4: Serve
To make a cup, stir 2 to 3 tablespoons of the tea mix into 1 cup of water, hot or cold, and mix until fully dissolved. Adjust the amount up or down to taste.
Recipe Card
“Russian” Tea Mix
- Yield: Makes 30 servings
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: None
- Course: Beverage
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 1 cup orange drink mix (such as Tang)
- ½ cup instant tea powder
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons powdered lemonade mix
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a small bowl or jar and whisk until well combined.
- Store in an airtight container until ready to use.
- When serving, add 2 to 3 tablespoons of tea mix for every 1 cup of water (hot or cold). Stir until fully dissolved.
Tips for the Best “Russian” Tea Mix
Whisk Thoroughly
Since all the ingredients are fine powders, a thorough whisk or shake ensures the spices and sugar don’t settle unevenly at the bottom of the jar.
Taste and Adjust the Ratio
Start with 2 tablespoons of mix per cup of water, then add more if you like it stronger and sweeter, or use less for a lighter drink.
Use Fresh Spices
Cinnamon and cloves lose their punch over time. Fresh, fragrant spices make a noticeable difference in the final flavor.
Dissolve Fully
Stir well when preparing each cup, especially with cold water, so the powder doesn’t settle at the bottom of the mug.
Store It Airtight
Moisture is the enemy of powdered mixes. A tightly sealed jar keeps the mix from clumping and helps it stay fresh longer.
Make a Big Batch for Gifting
Since the recipe scales easily, consider doubling or tripling it if you plan to give several jars as gifts.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
My Mix Is Clumping in the Jar
Moisture may have gotten into the container. Make sure the jar is completely dry before adding the mix, and keep the lid tightly sealed between uses.
My Drink Tastes Too Weak
Add an extra half tablespoon or so of mix per cup until it reaches your preferred strength.
My Drink Tastes Too Strong or Bitter
Use less mix per cup, or dilute with a bit more water.
The Spices Taste Too Faint
This can happen if the cinnamon or cloves are older and have lost potency. Use fresh spices, or add a touch more to the recipe next time.
The Powder Won’t Dissolve in Cold Water
Stir vigorously and give it a little extra time. You can also dissolve it first in a small amount of hot water, then top off with cold water and ice.
Variations to Try
Extra Spiced Version
Add a pinch of ground allspice or nutmeg for a more complex, warmly spiced flavor.
Sugar-Free Version
Use a sugar-free orange drink mix and lemonade mix, and swap the granulated sugar for a sugar substitute.
Stronger Citrus
Increase the powdered lemonade mix slightly for a more pronounced tart, lemony note.
Spiked Version
Stir a splash of spiced rum or bourbon into a hot cup for an adults-only holiday drink.
Iced Tea Mix Punch
Mix a batch with cold water in a large pitcher and serve over ice at parties, garnished with orange slices.
Mulled Cider Twist
Stir a spoonful of the tea mix into warm apple cider instead of plain water for a layered spiced flavor.
What to Serve With “Russian” Tea Mix
- Holiday cookies, such as shortbread or gingerbread
- Cinnamon rolls or coffee cake
- A cheese and cracker plate for an afternoon gathering
- Light finger sandwiches for a tea-time spread
- Spiced nuts or a warm snack mix
When to Serve It
- Christmas and holiday gatherings
- Cozy winter afternoons
- Tea parties and bridal or baby showers
- Thanksgiving get-togethers
- Any time guests drop by unexpectedly
- Homemade holiday gift-giving
Make-Ahead, Storage, and Freezing
Make ahead: This mix is meant to be made ahead. Since it’s a shelf-stable powder, it can be prepared weeks or even months before you plan to use or gift it.
Storage: Store the mix in an airtight container, such as a mason jar, in a cool, dry pantry. It will keep well for several months as long as moisture stays out.
Gifting: Spoon the mix into a decorative jar, tie on a ribbon, and attach a small tag with the serving instructions (2 to 3 tablespoons per cup of water) for an easy, inexpensive homemade gift.
Freezing: Freezing isn’t necessary or recommended for this recipe, since the dry powder already stores well at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there anything actually Russian about this recipe?
Not that anyone has been able to confirm. Like many old, retro recipes, the origin of the name isn’t entirely clear, and there doesn’t seem to be a real connection to Russian cuisine.
Can I drink this cold instead of hot?
Yes. While it’s traditionally served hot, the mix dissolves in cold water as well and makes a refreshing drink any time of year.
How much mix do I use per cup?
Use 2 to 3 tablespoons of the mix per 1 cup of water, adjusting to taste.
Can I use a different brand of orange drink mix?
Yes. Any powdered orange drink mix works in place of Tang.
Does this recipe contain caffeine?
Yes, from the instant tea powder. If you’d like a caffeine-free version, look for a decaffeinated instant tea powder.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, as written, all the ingredients are plant-based.
How long does the mix stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, it stays fresh for several months.
Can I make this into a homemade gift?
Yes. It’s a popular homemade gift. Spoon it into a jar, decorate it, and include a tag with mixing instructions.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, the recipe scales up easily. Simply double or triple all the ingredients and mix as directed.
Do I need any special equipment to make it?
No. A bowl and a whisk (or a jar you can shake) are all you need.
Allergen Note
This recipe is generally free of the major common allergens, but always check the labels of your specific orange drink mix, instant tea, and lemonade mix, since formulations and added ingredients can vary by brand.
Conclusion
“Russian” Tea Mix is a simple, retro drink mix that brings a nostalgic, spiced citrus flavor to any cup of hot or cold water. With just a handful of pantry ingredients and 5 minutes of prep, it’s an easy way to keep a comforting drink on hand for guests, cozy nights, or thoughtful homemade gifts. Give this old-fashioned recipe a try, and it just might become a new holiday tradition in your home.
Happy sipping, and enjoy this warm, spiced classic!
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