This warm cranberry tea is the perfect non-alcoholic beverage to serve during the holidays. Fragrant with cinnamon and cloves, it combines the tart brightness of cranberry juice with the depth of black tea for a cozy, spiced drink that welcomes guests on a chilly winter evening. Whether served at a holiday open house, after a snowy walk, or simply as a comforting nightcap, this festive tea is as inviting as it is delicious.
INGREDIENTS:
4 cups water
2 cups cranberry juice
12 whole cloves
2 cinnamon sticks
2 tablespoons sugar
4 teaspoons loose black tea
Optional garnish: orange slices or cinnamon sticks
METHOD:
In a medium saucepan, combine the water, cranberry juice, cloves, cinnamon sticks, and sugar. Cover and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Once boiling, stir in the black tea. Immediately remove the pan from the heat and cover. Let steep for about 4 minutes.
Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer to remove the spices and tea leaves.
Pour into mugs and serve hot, garnished with a cinnamon stick or orange slice if desired.
YIELD: 4 servings
VARIATION:
For extra citrus brightness, add 3–4 thin slices of fresh orange to the saucepan along with the cranberry juice and spices. Simmer together for a more fragrant, festive twist.
