Holidays wouldn’t be the holidays without a bit of festive cheer! There’s something inherently comforting about sipping a warm beverage during this special season, and teas are the perfect way to warm both body and soul. Whether you prefer your tea straight or with a splash of spirits, an evening spent by the fire singing Christmas carols just begs for some delightful additions!
You can explore a variety of options—cider, fruit teas, black teas, green teas, or even herbal blends—each offering its own unique warmth and flavor to create delicious winter warmers. However, teas infused with spices and herbs truly shine as the best holiday “Tea-Tails.” The combination of soothing teas and festive ingredients creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Start by choosing teas that resonate with your taste buds, whether it’s a rich black tea or a fruity herbal blend. Once you have your base, get creative by adding seasonal fruits like apples, oranges, or cranberries, and enhance the flavor with warming spices such as cinnamon, cloves, or nutmeg. For an extra touch of cheer, consider adding a splash of your favorite spirit—be it spiced rum, brandy, or whiskey—to elevate your drink to new heights.
The result is a one-of-a-kind warming holiday Tea-Tail that’s not only delicious but also perfect for sipping while you gather around with friends and family. Each cup is a celebration of the season, and you’ll find yourself wanting to enjoy these delightful concoctions all winter long. So, embrace the festive spirit and create your own unique blends that will keep the holiday cheer flowing!
Festive Cheer – Warming Tea-Tails
MAKES 4 SERVINGS
UPDATED NOVEMBER 2ND, 2024
INGREDIENTS
• 5 – 6 heaped teaspoons of loose-leaf tea
Recommended:
Mulled Cranberry Spice
Mulled Apple Cider
Holiday Spiced Blackberry Wine
• 4 ½ cups of pure water
• Maple syrup, brown sugar or honey (If using sweet liqueurs, omit)
OPTIONAL PAIRINGS
• Mulled Cranberry Spice or Mulled Apple Cider pairs well with rum, brandy or bourbon
• Holiday Spiced Blackberry Wine pairs well with Black Currant or Chambord (raspberry) liqueur
GARNISHES
• Slices of orange, lemon, apple or pear
• Whole cranberries, blackberries or raspberries
• Slice of fresh ginger
• Sprig of rosemary, a cinnamon stir stick or whole star anise
HOW TO
• In a sauce pot over medium-high heat bring water to a full boil
• Remove from heat, add in your choice of tea and cover
• Steep 3-4 minutes for black teas, 5-6 minutes for fruit teas
• Strain tea back into sauce pot and heat to desired temperature (DO NOT BOIL)
• Add spirits or liqueurs of choice
• Sweeten if desired (if using sweet liqueurs, omit other sweeteners)
• Pour into glass mugs or cups
• Add garnishes of choice. Enjoy!
TIP
• Recipe can be doubled or tripled and served in a crockpot on the ‘keep warm’ setting. Float cranberries, oranges and apples on top and let guests help themselves