Tea of the Week: Trader Joe’s Candy Cane Green Tea

trader joes candy cane tea 1I came across Trader Joe’s Candy Cane Green Tea a few years ago when my friend Lynnelle discovered it and was sweet enough to share some with me. I still remember her dropping several of these pillow-like tea bags into a ziplock sandwich bag at the end of our girl’s night out saying “You have to try this tea, Bonnie!” So here I am now, sharing that very same tea with you.

trader joes candy cane tea 2Every Christmas since, I take advantage of the holiday season by stocking up on this budget-friendly yet tasty tea. The blend tastes of refreshing peppermint candy canes in the most natural way, where the brightness of the mint is balanced by a touch of soft vanilla. I also love that the tea is decaffeinated, a festive drink that everyone can enjoy.

trader joes candy cane tea 4Trader Joe’s Candy Cane Green Tea is only available during Christmas time, so now is the time to try it and decide if you might want to stock up too! The tea’s fun packaging makes it a perfect stocking stuffer or gift card tag along. After all, who can resist the image of an adorable tea-loving polar bear wearing an ugly Christmas sweater? For a few bucks, this cool tasting hot tea is really one you should try…get some while it still lasts!trader joes candy cane tea 5

Tasting Notes for Trader Joe’s Candy Cane Tea:

BREWING TIPS:  Brew with water just under the boiling point. Steep for 3 minutes and avoid over brewing.

THE BLEND:  A mix of peppermint leaf, decaf green tea, orange peel, natural vanilla and mint flavors, cinnamon, milk thistle, blackberry leaves, roasted carob, roasted chicory, and vanilla bean.

THE SCENT:  Bright, fresh peppermint scent muted with a touch of soft vanilla. You could put a bag of this in your car and it would smell fantastic!

THE STEEP:  If you brew the tea correctly, the taste of the green tea should be subtle. The brew tastes of candy canes, without the cloying sweetness. Slightly sweet from the orange peel, vanilla, and cinnamon flavors. Well balanced, and very soothing on a cold night.

GET IT:  At Trader Joe’s, and on Amazon.com, although it is significantly marked up there.

FOOD PAIRING:  Hmm, would it be strange to say a candy cane? This would also be great with a decadent slice of chocolate cake or other sweets that are simple in flavor like my Lemon Matcha Cake Bites, which will echo the green tea flavors in this blend. If you are brewing this for a holiday get together, you must try making some decorative Christmas Tree Stroopwafels to prop on top of your filled teacups…what a festive holiday treat this pair will make!

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