Rain on the windows, wet gold maple leaves on the sidewalks, and candles lit by five o'clock. Fall has fully arrived in the Pacific Northwest.
It's the season of rain boots and chilly walks, soggy soccer sidelines, and Halloween porch lights glowing through the drizzle. And whenever you come in from the cold, there's nothing better than a warm mug waiting.
This time of year, two blends live on our counter: Spiced Apple Cider and Pumpkin Spice. Here's how we're enjoying them this season, from a thermos on the go to a mug on the couch.
Parent pro tip: whether it's a rainy soccer game, a walk through the leaves, or trick-or-treating, grab a thermos of hot tea for yourself before you head out! Your hands stay toasty, you've got something cozy to sip on the go, and it makes the whole outing feel like a treat for you too.
On Halloween, the kids get the candy (even if we sneak a few pieces along the way), and we get the tea (even if they steal a few sips). Treats all around!
To fill your thermos, steep a little stronger than usual, about 3 teaspoons per cup, so it stays flavorful with the optional milk add in. Strain the leaves before pouring it in, and add splash of your milk of choice. Spoon a dollop of honey if you like it sweet.
Spiced Apple Cider tastes like a fresh cup of cider from the pumpkin patch. Sweet organic apple pieces meet cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg in a cup that smells like fall the moment the water hits the leaves. Choose the caffeine-free herbal version for late nights, or the black tea base for a fuller cup with a gentle lift.
Make homemade spiced cider
This is our favorite fall trick. Instead of water, steep the tea in hot apple juice.
For the grown-ups, a splash of spiced rum or whiskey turns it into a cozy fall cocktail.
Make a Spiced Apple Cider latte
Pumpkin Spice is my favorite blend this time of year. It tastes like pumpkin pie in a mug, warm and sweetly spiced, without any of the syrupy stuff.
It comes two ways: a caffeine-free rooibos version that's perfect for winding down in the evening, or a black tea and rooibos version if you'd like a little lift on a gray afternoon.
It's lovely on its own, and even better as a latte. Brew it strong, add a spoonful of honey and warm milk, and finish with a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Whether it's a thermos on a chilly walk or a mug on the couch with a good book, we hope these blends bring a little warmth to your fall.
Find more sweetly spiced blends, like Masala Chai, Rose Cardamom Chai, and Vanilla Plum Crumble, in our full fall collection.
Every blend is certified organic and hand-blended in small batches by our family.
Stay warm and dry out there!
Warmly, Kimberly
