In a small pot, pour in 2 cups of filtered water and bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.

Once boiling, remove from heat and add cinnamon sticks and split vanilla bean (or vanilla extract). Cover and steep for 10 minutes.

Uncover and add loose-leaf tea or tea bag. Return to low heat and steep for 3-5 minutes.

In a separate saucepan, heat 1 cup of milk over medium heat until hot but not boiling.

Strain tea mixture into milk using a fine mesh strainer. Sweeten to taste.

Pour into mugs and enjoy warm or chill for an iced version.

For iced, let the mixture cool, then pour over ice.