Pumpkin Maple Chai Black Tea

Description

Still Getting Caught Up . . .

I was inspired to craft this thanks to one of my seasonal favorite drinks from our local coffee shop. Yes, believe it or not, I still go to those. I don’t drink coffee, but our local place has a really decent chai that’s actually NOT made from the well-known chai concentrate that is available in just about every grocery store these days. I usually request their special coffee creations made with their chai instead of espresso & more often than not, it’s a hit with my taste buds.

This autumn they offered a delightful cuppa that was made with their house-made spiced pumpkin puree, a maple syrup drizzle, oat milk & of course, espresso (or, in my case, chai!) It was absolutely amazing, and I found myself actually craving that drink!

So, I decided I needed to craft something similar, if for no other reason, than to give my wallet some relief. This blend starts with a blend of Assam teas, including a CTC Assam (which offers a bold richness to the cup) & a touch of honeybush. Next, I added the usual spices: cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves & black pepper. I also added some nutmeg & a touch of anise. Then, I added chunks of freeze-dried pumpkin & a touch of maple. The final touch was some vanilla bean to offer a smooth finish. 

This brews into a stunning cuppa. It’s not too spicy, just pleasantly spiced with a harmonious blend of spices. It tastes great without addition & it also makes an amazing latte if you brew it strong & add your favorite milk (I personally love this with a splash of oat milk!) It’s a lovely autumnal chai! 

organic ingredients: black teas, honeybush, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, black pepper, anise, nutmeg, pumpkin, vanilla bean, maple cotton candy (maple syrup & cane sugar) & natural flavors

to brew: shake pouch before measuring to ensure that all ingredients are well-incorporated. Use 3 ½ grams of tea to 12oz of nearly boiling water (205°F) & steep for 4 minutes. Strain & allow to cool for at least 10 minutes. Enjoy!

serving suggestion: I like this straight, with no additions. It makes a charming hot cup & it still tastes great if you pour a cup, leave it on the kitchen counter & get busy doing things only to come back to a cold cuppa. It also makes a fantastic latte if you brew it strong & add a splash of your favorite dairy, just remember to use twice the tea when brewing so that the milk doesn’t dilute it.