Pumpkin Pie Cocoa Tea
Yesterday was cold and cloudy in central Maine and I wanted something comfy to drink. My go-to beverage is tea, but I wanted something more. I started hunting around my kitchen, first coming up with the cocoa and tea. The Abuelita hot chocolate has a good zing of spice to (cinnamon) and is of course already sweetened. But then I decided to add a good dash of my magical pumpkin spice blend (every spice has a purpose in witchcraft) but because it also has cinnamon in it, I didn’t want it to be overpowering, so I decided to add a heaping spoonful of puréed pumpkin.
I heated the chocolate tablet in a cup of milk in a saucepan, then blended in the spices and pumpkin. I then brewed my tea in a gaiwan (a special tea pot used in traditional Chinese tea brewing where you brew tea rapidly and repeatedly. I’ll go over it in detail someday) I put two brews in that way, stirred it with a frother, then drizzled a lil salted caramel Torani (it’s basically flavored simple syrup) for just a little boost of sweet, because that’s what I was craving. It was magnificent! If you want a sweet treat, this hit the spot.
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There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting beverage to chase away the chill of a cold day, and for me, a good chocolate tea is an absolute game-changer. While traditional tea has its place, sometimes you just need that extra layer of richness and indulgence that only chocolate can provide. I’ve been experimenting with my own cozy creations, and let me tell you, once you dive into the world of homemade chocolate tea, you might never go back! What makes a chocolate tea truly special? It's the delightful dance between the robust notes of tea and the decadent sweetness of chocolate, often enhanced by aromatic spices. For my go-to recipe, I swear by Abuelita Hot chocolate tablets – they bring a unique, spicy kick that perfectly complements the tea. But don't feel limited! If you're looking to explore, consider using a high-quality cocoa powder for a deeper, less sweet chocolate flavor, or even melting down some dark chocolate chips for an extra luxurious texture. The beauty is in the experimentation! When it comes to the tea base, I typically reach for a loose leaf black tea. Its strong character stands up beautifully against the chocolate and spices. However, imagine the possibilities with other teas! A chai tea would amplify the spice profile, while a smoky Lapsang Souchong could add an intriguing depth. For those avoiding caffeine, a rooibos tea would offer a naturally sweet, earthy foundation. Don't be afraid to mix and match until you find your perfect blend. Now, for my secret ingredients: pumpkin and spice! The addition of canned pumpkin isn't just for fall; it adds an incredible creaminess and subtle earthiness that ties everything together. And my home-blended pumpkin pie spice? It’s a must-have! If you don't have a pre-made blend, you can easily whip up your own with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a pinch of cloves. This warmth really elevates the whole drink, turning it into a hug in a mug. And for that final flourish, a drizzle of Torani Salted Caramel Syrup is non-negotiable for me. It adds a touch of gourmet sweetness and a hint of salt that perfectly balances the rich flavors. But feel free to personalize this too! Maple syrup, a dollop of whipped cream, or even some mini marshmallows can transform your chocolate tea into a truly unique treat tailored to your cravings. The key is to have fun with it and make it your own personal comfort creation. Enjoy brewing your next delightful cup!
