10 Quick Oolong Tea Recipes You Can Try Today

Oolong tea, with its complex flavors and aromatic qualities, is a true treasure for tea enthusiasts. But did you know it’s also an incredibly versatile ingredient that can enhance drinks, desserts, and even savory dishes? Whether you’re looking for a refreshing beverage, a comforting dessert, or a creative way to use tea in cooking, oolong tea has you covered.

In this guide, we’ll share 10 quick oolong tea recipes that are easy to prepare and packed with flavor. From classic iced tea to innovative tea-infused dishes, these recipes will inspire you to think beyond the teacup.

A staple for tea lovers, oolong iced tea is a refreshing way to enjoy the tea’s natural flavors, especially during warmer months. It’s simple to make and endlessly customizable.

Ingredients

• 4 teaspoons loose-leaf tea

• 4 cups water

• Ice cubes

• Lemon or lime slices (optional)

• Sweetener of your choice (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat water to 195°F (not boiling) and steep the tea for 4–5 minutes.

2. Strain the tea into a heatproof pitcher and let it cool to room temperature.

3. Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the cooled tea over them.

4. Add lemon slices or a splash of sweetener if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use sparkling water instead of still for a fizzy twist.

• Add fresh herbs like mint or basil for extra flavor.

• Freeze brewed tea into ice cubes to prevent dilution.

For more iced tea tips, visit The Spruce Eats.

Rich, creamy, and comforting, an oolong tea latte is a perfect blend of milk and tea, ideal for cozy mornings or relaxing afternoons.

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons loose-leaf tea

• 1 cup water

• 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)

• 1 teaspoon honey or sweetener (optional)

• Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Brew the tea in hot water (195°F) for 5 minutes, then strain.

2. Heat the milk in a saucepan until warm, then froth it using a frother or whisk.

3. Combine the brewed tea and frothed milk in a mug.

4. Sweeten to taste and sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth.

Combine the natural complexity of oolong tea with the tropical flavors of mango and pineapple for a smoothie that’s both energizing and refreshing.

Ingredients

• 1 cup brewed tea (cooled)

• 1/2 cup frozen mango chunks

• 1/2 cup frozen pineapple chunks

• 1/2 banana

• 1/2 cup yogurt (dairy or plant-based)

• 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup

Instructions

1. Brew the tea and let it cool completely.

2. Blend all the ingredients until smooth and creamy.

3. Pour into a glass and garnish with a pineapple wedge or mint leaf.

Variations

• Swap the banana for avocado for a creamy texture without added sweetness.

• Add a handful of spinach for a nutrient boost.

This bubbly, citrus-infused drink is perfect for summer gatherings or as a refreshing treat after a long day.

Ingredients

• 1 cup brewed tea (cooled)

• 1/2 orange, juiced

• 1/2 lemon, juiced

• 1 teaspoon honey or simple syrup

• 1/2 cup sparkling water

• Ice cubes

• Orange slices or mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Mix the cooled oolong tea, orange juice, lemon juice, and honey in a glass.

2. Add ice cubes and top with sparkling water.

3. Stir gently and garnish with orange slices or mint leaves.

Pro Tip

For a mocktail version, add a splash of pomegranate or cranberry juice.

Infuse your rice with the subtle, earthy flavors of oolong tea for a simple yet elegant side dish.

Ingredients

• 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice

• 1 1/2 cups water

• 1 teaspoon loose-leaf oolong tea

Instructions

1. Heat the water to a simmer, then steep the oolong tea for 5 minutes. Strain the tea.

2. Combine the brewed tea and rice in a saucepan.

3. Cook according to your rice package instructions, fluffing with a fork when done.

Pairing Ideas

• Serve with grilled salmon or roasted chicken for a flavorful pairing.

• Add chopped scallions and sesame seeds for an Asian-inspired twist.

Take your chicken to the next level with this flavorful oolong tea marinade that’s perfect for grilling or baking.

Ingredients

• 1 cup brewed tea (cooled)

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1 teaspoon grated ginger

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 4 chicken thighs or breasts

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix the brewed tea, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic.

2. Place the chicken in a zip-top bag and pour the marinade over it.

3. Marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

4. Grill or bake the chicken until fully cooked.

These tea-infused eggs are a savory Chinese classic, perfect for snacking or adding to salads and ramen.

Ingredients

• 4 hard-boiled eggs

• 2 cups water

• 2 teaspoons loose-leaf tea

• 1/4 cup soy sauce

• 1 star anise (optional)

• 1 cinnamon stick (optional)

Instructions

1. Gently crack the shells of the hard-boiled eggs with a spoon, leaving the shell intact.

2. Brew the tea in 2 cups of hot water for 5 minutes, then strain.

3. Add soy sauce, star anise, and cinnamon to the brewed tea, then simmer the cracked eggs in the mixture for 1 hour.

4. Cool the eggs in the liquid for several hours or overnight before peeling.

Indulge in a creamy dessert infused with the unique flavor of oolong tea.

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons loose-leaf tea

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup whole milk

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 4 egg yolks

Instructions

1. Heat the cream and milk in a saucepan until just simmering. Add the oolong tea and steep for 10 minutes.

2. Strain the tea-infused cream and return it to the saucepan.

3. Whisk the sugar and egg yolks in a bowl, then slowly add the warm cream mixture while whisking.

4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook until thickened.

5. Chill the custard and churn it in an ice cream maker.

Add a unique twist to your salads with this flavorful tea-based dressing.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons brewed tea (cooled)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar

• 1 teaspoon honey

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Whisk all ingredients together in a small bowl until emulsified.

2. Drizzle over your favorite salad and toss to coat.

Best Pairings

• Use on a spinach and strawberry salad for a sweet-savory balance.

• Pair with grilled chicken or tofu for added protein.

Tea lovers can enjoy their favorite brew in cocktail form with this refreshing oolong tea mojito.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup brewed tea (cooled)

• 1 oz white rum

• 1/2 lime, juiced

• 1 teaspoon sugar

• Fresh mint leaves

• Ice cubes

Instructions

1. Muddle mint leaves, lime juice, and sugar in a glass.

2. Add the cooled oolong tea, rum, and ice cubes.

3. Stir well and garnish with a sprig of mint.

Non-Alcoholic Variation

Replace the rum with sparkling water for a refreshing mocktail.

For more tea cocktail inspiration, visit Serious Eats .