What To Add To Chamomile Tea: 15 Tasty Flavor Upgrades
Chamomile tea has a light, floral, and slightly sweet taste making it a favorite among herbal tea options.
But did you know that you can enhance the flavor of chamomile tea by adding various ingredients?
From natural sweeteners to herbs and spices, there are many ways to elevate the taste of your chamomile tea.
In this blog post, we’ll explore 15 ways to enhance the taste of chamomile tea, including incorporating lavender extract, adding spices and herbs, and even cold brewing.
Additionally, we’ll provide five unique chamomile tea recipes that incorporate unique flavor pairings such as honey, lavender and even chocolate.
So, if you’re looking to switch up your chamomile tea routine, keep reading to discover the perfect additions for your next cup.
What Does Chamomile Tea Taste Like?
Chamomile tea is an herbal tea known for its calming and relaxing properties. The flavor of chamomile tea is light, floral, and slightly sweet, with a hint of green apple. Although subtle, the taste can be delightful to many, making it a favorite among herbal tea options.
This caffeine-free tea is made from the dried flowers of the chamomile plant, which contributes to its distinct aroma and taste. While the flavor profile may not be as strong as other teas, you can still appreciate the delicate nature as you take slow sips.
What to Add to Chamomile Tea: 15 Ways to Enhance The Taste
Chamomile tea can be enjoyed on its own, but adding various ingredients can enhance its flavor. Ultimately, it’s up to your taste buds.
For example, mix in honey or lemon to add a hint of sweetness or tartness, or add spices like cinnamon or ginger for an extra touch of warmth in your cup.
If you’re unsure what to add to chamomile tea then look no further. Here are 15 ways you can enhance the taste of chamomile tea.
1. Use Quality Filtered Water
Using quality filtered water is essential for enhancing the flavor of the tea. It helps extract the true taste without getting in any contaminants or minerals.
Try using spring or filtered water to notice the difference in your chamomile tea.
2. Brew High-Quality Loose Leaf
Brewing chamomile tea with high-quality loose leaves will give a more robust flavor than tea bags. This will provide a fresher taste, and the natural taste of chamomile tea will be more nuanced and flavorful.
| Comparison | Loose Leaf | Tea Bag |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor | Pros: Often fresher and more flavorful. Allows full expansion of the flowers for better infusion. | Pros: Pre-portioned, quick and convenient. No extra tools are required. |
| Cons: May vary more between batches. | Pros: Consistent flavor between bags. | |
| Convenience | Cons: Requires a tea infuser or strainer. Takes slightly more effort to measure and steep. | Pros: Pre-portioned, quick, and convenient. No extra tools are required. |
| Freshness | Pros: Often packed and sold fresher. Can see and smell the quality of the product. | Cons: Can’t visually inspect the contents. Might contain older or dust-like remains of the herb. |
| Cost | Pros: Typically more cost-effective in bulk. | Cons: Generally more expensive per serving. |
| Cons: Initial cost might be higher due to larger quantities. | Pros: Can buy in smaller quantities. | |
| Storage | Cons: Requires airtight containers to maintain freshness. | Pros: Easier to store and transport. Individually sealed for freshness. |
Although tea bags are a convenient option, some brands will add chamomile dust and particles that aren’t as high-quality as loose leaf tea.
3. Incorporate Lavender Extract
Adding lavender extract to your chamomile tea will give it a unique twist in both flavor and aroma.
The floral notes of lavender go well with chamomile tea and add a hint of sweetness, enhancing the tea’s calming effect.
4. Incorporating Spices into Chamomile Tea
To vary the flavor of your chamomile tea, try adding spices like cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, or nutmeg. These spices add depth to the flavor and boost the tea’s inherent health benefits.
For example, brewing fresh slices of ginger will add a warming and spicy flavor.
Here’s a table of the top spices you can add to chamomile tea, along with their flavor profiles:
| Spices | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Cinnamon | Warm, sweet, slightly spicy |
| Ginger | Warm, spicy, zesty |
| Cardamom | Sweet, aromatic, slightly citrusy |
| Star Anise | Licorice-like, sweet, aromatic |
| Nutmeg | Warm, nutty, slightly sweet |
| Fennel Seeds | Licorice-like, aromatic, sweet |
| Turmeric | Earthy, slightly bitter, warm |
| Vanilla Bean | Sweet, creamy, aromatic |
From my experience, it’s best to start with a small amount and adjust it according to your taste preference. Some spices can overpower the gentle flavor of chamomile, so moderation is key.
5. Incorporating Herbs into Chamomile Tea
Add herbs like mint or lemongrass to refresh your chamomile tea. These herbs impart a fresh, citrusy taste, rounding out the natural floral flavors of the chamomile tea.
Mint enhances the flavor and adds a refreshing twist. Peppermint and spearmint are two common types of mint to use. To add mint, simply crush a few leaves with your fingers and stir them into your hot tea.
Lavender is known for its calming properties and unique floral flavor. It pairs well with chamomile tea and improves sleep quality. Start with a small amount – about 1 teaspoon – and adjust according to your preference.
Add a citrus note to your chamomile tea by using lemon balm. This herb also provides additional health benefits such as improving digestion and reducing anxiety. Simply tear a few leaves into pieces and add them to your tea.
| Herb | Benefits | Amount to Add |
|---|---|---|
| Mint | Refreshing flavor | A few crushed leaves |
| Lavender | Calming effect | 1 teaspoon |
| Lemon Balm | Improved digestion | A few torn leaves |
6. Add Natural Sweeteners
Consider adding natural sweeteners to your chamomile tea like stevia, agave, or maple syrup. These sweeteners can enhance the flavor profile without overpowering the chamomile’s taste.
In my opinion, add just a small amount to bring out the natural sweetness of chamomile. Here are some natural sweeteners you can try:
| Natural Sweetener | Description |
|---|---|
| Honey | A classic choice with a smooth, sweet flavor. Flavor varies based on type (e.g., clover, orange blossom). |
| Maple Syrup | Sourced from the sap of sugar maple trees; offers a unique, woody sweetness. |
| Agave Nectar | From the agave plant; sweeter than sugar and dissolves easily in beverages. |
| Stevia | Natural, calorie-free sweetener from Stevia plant leaves. Extremely sweet; use sparingly. |
| Date Sugar or Syrup | Made from dried dates; provides a rich, fruity sweetness. |
| Coconut Sugar | Derived from the sap of the coconut palm tree; has a caramel-like flavor. |
| Molasses | A byproduct of sugar production; blackstrap molasses offers deep sweetness with a slightly bitter undertone. |
7. Add Apples and Fruits
Apple slices add a natural sweetness and a fruity hint to your chamomile tea. The combination creates a harmonious flavor blend that makes your tea more appealing.
Apple isn’t the only great complement to chamomile tea, you can try your favorite fresh or dried fruit. Here are some some fruit you can’s what fruit you can add to chamomile tea:
| Fruit | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Apple | Sweet, mildly tart, crisp |
| Pear | Soft, sweet, slightly grainy |
| Dried Apricots | Sweet, slightly tart, chewy |
| Dried Figs | Rich, sweet, jammy |
| Dried Raisins | Sweet, slightly tart, chewy |
| Dried Cranberries | Tart, tangy, sweetened varieties are sweeter |
| Dried Cherries | Sweet-tart, slightly tangy |
| Dried Blueberries | Sweet, slightly tart, chewy |
| Dried Goji Berries | Mildly sweet, slightly tangy, chewy |
| Fresh Strawberries | Sweet, juicy, slightly tart |
| Fresh Raspberries | Sweet-tart, delicate, juicy |
| Fresh Blackberries | Sweet, juicy, slightly tart |
| Fresh Pineapple | Sweet, tart, tropical |
| Fresh Mango | Sweet, juicy, tropical |
| Fresh Peach/Nectarine | Sweet, juicy, slightly tart |
| Fresh Pomegranate Seeds | Sweet-tart, juicy, crunchy |
8. Adding Milk or Dairy Alternatives
Adding milk or plant-based alternatives like almond, oat, or coconut milk to chamomile tea can create a more creamy and comforting experience. This can also help soften the earthy and bitter flavor notes.
Chamomile tea has a light and delicate flavor so avoid adding too much milk. It may overpower the natural flavors.
9. Cold Brew Chamomile Tea
Steeping chamomile tea in cold water will produce a delicate and refreshing beverage. It’s perfect for hot days.
It’s quite simple but it’ll take patience since you’ll need to let it step longer. Here’s a quick recipe to follow:
- Place the dried chamomile flowers in a pitcher.
- Pour the cold water over the loose leaf chamomile tea.
- Gently stir to ensure all the chamomile tea is submerged.
- Cover the container and refrigerate for at least 4 to 8 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Once steeped to your preference, strain out the chamomile tea.
- Pour the cold-steeped chamomile tea into a glass with or without ice, and enjoy!
The cold brewing process extracts a subtle flavor, giving the tea a smoother and sweeter taste.
10. Add Lemon or Other Citrus
A slice of lemon, orange, or a splash of citrus juice will bring out the natural lemony undertones in chamomile tea.
| Citrus Additions | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Lemon Peel/Zest | Citrusy, tangy, bright |
| Lime Peel/Zest | Citrusy, vibrant, tart |
| Orange Peel/Zest | Citrusy, zesty, slightly bitter |
Fresh citrus fruits can add a tangy taste to chamomile tea. This addition gives a refreshing tanginess and zesty flavor without overpowering the tea’s taste.
11. Herbal Infusions for Chamomile Tea
Incorporating other herbal infusions into your chamomile tea, like rose petals, hibiscus, or passionflower.
Try combining chamomile tea with these herbal blends with their respective flavor profiles:
| Herbal Infusions | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Peppermint | Cool, refreshing, slightly sweet |
| Lavender | Floral, slightly sweet, calming |
| Lemon Balm | Citrusy, mild, soothing |
| Rose Petals | Delicate, floral, romantic |
| Hibiscus | Tangy, vibrant, slightly tart |
| Ginger | Spicy, warm, zesty |
| Licorice Root | Sweet, earthy, slightly spicy |
| Rooibos | Nutty, sweet, full-bodied |
| Fennel Seeds | Licorice-like, slightly sweet, aromatic |
| Echinacea | Earthy, grassy, slightly bitter |
| Cinnamon | Sweet, spicy, warm |
| Elderflower | Light, sweet, floral |
| Valerian Root | Woody, earthy, slightly bitter |
| Lemongrass | Light citrus, refreshing |
These can add subtle new flavors, making the tea more complex and exciting.
12. Add Brown Sugar
Adding brown sugar to chamomile tea enhances the sweetener and infuses a caramel-like flavor. This enhances the tea’s natural flavors and adds a hint of richness.
Brown sugar has a caramel-like flavor that adds sweetness to the tea. One teaspoon is enough to balance the earthiness and bring out the natural sweetness in tea.
Add brown sugar to a freshly brewed cup of chamomile tea, stir until dissolved, and enjoy.
13. Add Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract adds a rich and sweet aroma to your chamomile tea. Just a few drops of pure vanilla extract can create a calming and soothing effect.
To incorporate vanilla extract into your chamomile tea, add a few drops to your cup after steeping the tea. Use pure vanilla extract because artificial vanilla flavoring may contain added sugars and chemicals.
14. Mix With Other Tea Blends
Combining chamomile with other tea blends can yield a unique pairing of flavors. Try blending it with green or white tea to enjoy a more varied and versatile tea experience.
| Tea Blends | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Green Tea | Grassy, slightly astringent, fresh |
| White Tea | Delicate, light, floral, slightly sweet |
| Oolong Tea | Varies from floral to woody, smooth |
| Earl Grey (Black Tea with Bergamot) | Citrusy, robust, aromatic |
| Lemon Balm Tea | Citrusy, mild, soothing |
Mixing chamomile with other teas can create unique and delightful blends. Green tea’s slightly sweet and delicate taste can complement the earthiness and floral notes found in chamomile.
The ratios you use will change the final flavor, so it’s always good to experiment to find the balance that suits your taste!
15. Add Salt to Tea
Adding salt to chamomile tea may sound odd but it can bring out the natural sweetness. A pinch of salt can reduce the bitter taste receptors and bring out the tea’s natural sweetness and enhance the overall flavor.
Unusual Things to Add to Chamomile Tea
In addition to these proven flavor enhancers, you can experiment with unique ingredients to add to chamomile tea. Just add new ingredients sparingly at first, as a little can go a long way in transforming your chamomile tea.
Chocolate Chamomile Tea: Enhance your chamomile tea experience by adding a dash of cocoa powder or a small piece of dark chocolate.
This combination elevates the tea’s flavor profile, providing a rich and indulgent taste. Dissolve the cocoa or chocolate into your hot tea, stirring well to ensure an even distribution.
Honey Vanilla Chamomile Tea: To add warmth and sweetness to your cup, combine a spoonful of honey and a drop of pure vanilla extract with your chamomile tea.
Honey offers natural sweetness and contains soothing properties that pair well with chamomile’s calming effects. By adding vanilla, you’ll create a subtly aromatic infusion.
How To Make Chamomile Tea Taste Better Without Using Sugar?
To enhance the flavor of your chamomile tea without adding sugar, use natural sweeteners or other healthful ingredients.
Honey: Honey is an excellent choice as it adds sweetness and has antibacterial properties. A teaspoon of honey can make a noticeable difference.
Lemon: Another option is to include lemon juice. The tanginess of lemon complements the floral notes of chamomile tea, creating a refreshing flavor. Add a slice or a few drops of lemon juice to your cup.
Cinnamon: Cinnamon can also be a delightful addition to chamomile tea. This warm spice adds a bit of sweetness and depth of flavor. You can steep a cinnamon stick in your tea or add a pinch of ground cinnamon.
Herbal Blend: Mixing in other herbal teas, such as peppermint or lavender, also enhances the taste of chamomile tea. These additions provide an interesting and multi-dimensional flavor to your drink.
Recipe: The Perfect Cold Steeped Chamomile Tea
Here’s an easy and simple recipe for cold steeping chamomile tea. Remember, cold steeping chamomile tea will yield a light, delicate, and floral taste without any bitterness.
Ingredients:
- 1 to 2 tablespoons dried chamomile flowers (adjust to taste)
- 4 cups cold water
Instructions:
- Place the dried chamomile flowers in a pitcher or glass container.
- Pour the cold water over the chamomile flowers.
- Gently stir to ensure all the chamomile flowers are submerged.
- Cover the container and refrigerate for at least 4 to 8 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Once steeped to your preference, strain out the chamomile flowers.
- Pour the cold-steeped chamomile tea into a glass with or without ice, and enjoy!
Recipe: The Perfect Cup of Chamomile Tea With Honey
To create a delicious cup of loose leaf chamomile tea with honey, follow this simple recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon loose leaf chamomile tea
- 8 ounces boiling water
- 1 teaspoon honey (or to taste)
Instructions:
- Prepare your tea strainer, infuser, or teapot with a built-in strainer. Place the loose leaf chamomile tea inside the strainer or infuser.
- Bring 8 ounces of water to a boil (between 195℉ – 205℉). Once the water has reached a rolling boil, remove it from heat and carefully pour it over the chamomile tea.
- Allow the tea to steep for 5-7 minutes.
- After the tea has steeped, carefully remove the strainer or infuser from the teapot or cup.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of honey, or more depending on your taste preference. Mix it well to ensure that the honey dissolves evenly in the tea.
- Enjoy your perfectly brewed cup of chamomile tea with honey!
Enjoy the soothing and calming effects of chamomile tea while indulging in the natural sweetness of honey.
Recipe: The Perfect Cup of Lavender and Chamomile Tea
To create a soothing and delicious cup of lavender and chamomile tea, you will need the following ingredients along with these instructions.
Ingredients:
- 2 teaspoons of loose leaf chamomile
- 1 teaspoon of dried lavender flowers
- Thinly sliced apple pieces (optional, but adds a pleasant sweetness)
- Honey, to taste
Instructions:
- Ensure you have your loose leaf chamomile, dried lavender flowers, apple slices, and honey readily available.
- Before brewing the tea, preheat your teapot by filling it with hot water and letting it sit for a minute.
- Empty the teapot, then combine the loose leaf chamomile and dried lavender flowers into the teapot.
- Heat fresh water to boiling point (between 195℉ – 205℉). Pour it over the chamomile and lavender mixture into the teapot.
- Let the mixture steep for about 5-7 minutes.
- If you’d like a touch of natural sweetness, place a few thinly sliced apple pieces into your teacup.
- Carefully pour the brewed tea over the apple slices, using a strainer to catch the chamomile and lavender.
- To taste, add honey to your warm cup of tea. Stir gently to dissolve the honey, and adjust the amount to your desired level of sweetness.
There you have it—a simple, relaxing, and flavorful lavender and chamomile tea recipe to enjoy any time of day.
Recipe: The Perfect Cup of Chamomile Tea for Sleep
To make the perfect cup of chamomile tea for sleep quality, you will need high-quality loose leaf chamomile and a few additional ingredients for relaxation and flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons loose leaf chamomile
- 8 ounces boiling water
- 1 teaspoon raw honey (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions:
- Measure 2 tablespoons of loose leaf chamomile and set aside.
- Heat 8 ounces of water to a rolling boil (between 195℉ – 205℉). You can use a teapot, saucepan, or an electric kettle.
- Place the chamomile in a teapot or teacup with an infuser. Pour the boiling water over the chamomile and steep for 5-7 minutes.
- If using a teapot or teacup with an infuser, remove the infuser. If you used a saucepan, strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a serving cup.
- Sweeten the tea with 1 teaspoon of raw honey, if desired. Mix in 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger for additional flavor and relaxation benefits.
- Allow the tea to cool down slightly, then savor your perfect cup of chamomile tea for sleep quality.
Drink your chamomile tea around 30 minutes before bedtime to reap the sleep-enhancing benefits.
Recipe: The Perfect Cup of Chocolate Chamomile Tea
Here’s how to make a delicious and comforting cup of chocolate chamomile tea.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon loose-leaf chamomile tea
- 1/2 ounce dark chocolate, finely chopped
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- 1 pinch of cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
- In a teapot or diffuser, combine the loose-leaf chamomile tea with the finely chopped dark chocolate.
- Pour 1 cup of boiling water (between 195℉ – 205℉) over the chamomile and chocolate mixture. Allow it to steep for 4-5 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld and create a rich, soothing drink.
- After the steeping time has passed, strain the tea into a cup, removing the loose tea leaves and any remaining chocolate pieces.
- If desired, add a tablespoon of honey to sweeten the tea and a pinch of cinnamon for an extra layer of warming flavor.
Enjoy your soothing and indulgent cup of chocolate chamomile tea.
Recipe: The Perfect Cup of Honey Vanilla Chamomile Tea
Create a delicious and soothing cup of Honey Vanilla Chamomile Tea.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons loose leaf chamomile tea
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 8 ounces boiling water
Instructions:
- Boil the water (between 195℉ – 205℉) in a kettle or pot. While waiting, prepare your teacup or mug with an infuser or a tea ball filled with the loose leaf chamomile tea.
- Once the water is boiling, carefully pour it over the chamomile tea. Allow the tea to steep for approximately five minutes.
- While the tea is steeping, gently warm the honey to a pourable consistency, either in a microwave-safe dish in the microwave for approximately 10-15 seconds, or in a small saucepan on the stovetop.
- Remove the infuser or tea ball from the cup, ensuring you’ve allowed any excess liquid to drip back into the cup.
- Add the warmed honey and vanilla extract to the tea. Stir to combine the flavors evenly.
Sip and savor this delightful beverage in the evening to unwind or on a chilly afternoon for a comforting treat.
Final Thoughts
Chamomile tea is a versatile and delicious herbal tea that can be enjoyed on its own or with additions to enhance its flavor.
Whether you prefer a touch of sweetness, a hint of spice, or a refreshing twist, there are many ways to elevate the taste. From natural sweeteners and herbs to spices and fruits, the possibilities are endless.
So, the next time you brew a cup of chamomile tea, don’t be afraid to try out some of these additions to create a unique and delicious tea experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What flavors go well with chamomile tea?
Chamomile tea has a mild and delicate taste that pairs well with other flavors. You can add citrus flavors like lemon or orange, aromatic herbs like mint, lavender, or rosemary, and warm spices like ginger, cinnamon, or cloves. Experiment with different combinations to find the best flavors that suit your taste buds.
Do you put milk in chamomile tea?
Traditionally, milk is not added to chamomile tea. However, personal preferences vary, and you are welcome to add milk or a milk alternative if you enjoy a creamier texture. Make sure to taste the tea first without milk, as it may alter the delicate flavors of chamomile.
Can you add sugar or honey to chamomile tea?
Yes, you can add sugar or honey to chamomile tea if you prefer a sweeter taste. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your liking. Honey can also provide a soothing effect, which complements the calming properties of chamomile tea.
What to add to chamomile tea for weight loss
To support weight loss goals, consider adding ingredients with metabolism-boosting properties to your chamomile tea. Green tea, lemon, and ginger can aid digestion and boost metabolism. Alternatively, you can drink chamomile tea on its own, as it is naturally calorie-free and can help curb your appetite.
