Begin by boiling two cups of water in a small pot over medium-high heat.

Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add the cinnamon sticks and the seeds from the vanilla bean (or vanilla extract). Cover and steep for about 10 minutes.

Add the black tea bags (or loose leaf) and let it steep for an additional 3 to 5 minutes.

While the tea is steeping, gently heat two cups of milk in a separate saucepan over medium-low heat until steaming.

Remove the tea from heat, strain the mixture into the warm milk, and stir well.

Taste and add sweetener to your liking, then stir until fully dissolved.

Serve hot or over ice, and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.