Start by pouring 1 cup of water into a small pot and place it over medium-high heat. Bring the water to a vigorous boil, which should take about 3-5 minutes.

Once boiling, add the peel of half an orange and a cinnamon stick to the pot. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and let the mixture cook for 2-3 minutes.

Add 1 black tea bag or 1 teaspoon of loose leaf black tea into the simmering pot. Keep the heat low and allow the tea to steep for 3-5 minutes.

After steeping, take the pot off the heat and grab a fine mesh strainer. Pour the mixture through the strainer into a cup, discarding the solids of orange peel and cinnamon.

While the tea is still hot, stir in 1 teaspoon of brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Keep stirring until the sugar fully dissolves.

Pour in 1 cup of milk and gently heat the mixture on low for another 2-3 minutes. Avoid boiling the milk.

If desired, strain the tea again to remove any remaining solids. Garnish with a twist of orange peel or an orange slice before serving.