Apple Pie Chai – Herbal Tisane

Cooler breezes are blowing and the green trees are turning vibrant shades of red, yellow and orange before falling gently to the lawn. Diets are changing from corn, salads and fresh tomatoes to pumpkins, squash and apples. The air smells rich with the odor of fireplaces blazing and spicy pies baking in the oven. Ah, glorious fall!

We made this herbal blend with apple and spices to remind you of the wonderful tastes and smells of fall. But, make no mistake, Apple Pie Chai is a tasty treat you can enjoy year round!

Ingredients: apple pieces, orange peel, organic lemon grass, organic cinnamon chips, hibiscus flowers, rosehips, alfalfa leaf, natural chai flavor, and natural cinnamon flavor.

Brew tea at 212º – steep for 5 minutes.

This herbal tisane blend pairs well with meats, savory tarts and quiches, chocolate, dairy desserts (custards, cheesecake, etc.) and scones.

Apple Pie Chai Tea Scones

Ingredients:
10 Tbsp butter
2 Tbsp Apple Pie Chai Herbal Tisane

2 cups all purpose flour
1 cup White Whole Wheat Flour
1 Tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup chopped apples
4 Tbsp sugar
½ cup vanilla yogurt
½ cup milk

Drizzle:
½ cup confectioner’s sugar
1 Tbsp cream (or half and half)
½ tsp cinnamon

Directions:
In a small saucepan melt the butter. When melted add the tea, cover, and steep 10 minutes. Strain out the tea into a measuring glass to equal ½ cup of tea infused butter. Freeze.

Preheat the oven to 500°F and lightly grease a baking sheet.

Blend the flours, soda, powder and salt in a large mixing bowl.

Remove the tea butter from the freezer and chop into small pieces. Add to the dry ingredients and mix with your fingers or a fork until the mix is crumbly.

Add the apples, sugar, yogurt and milk and mix for about 30 seconds. It may not look completely blended, but turn it out onto a floured surface and lightly knead a few times until the dough holds together. Split into 2 equal parts.

Pat each dough half into a round circle (6-7″ across), shaping with your hands. Cut the dough into 6 pieces and place on the baking sheet. Reduce the heat to 450°F and bake for approximately 15 minutes, until golden brown.

Remove from the oven and cool on a rack.

Make the Drizzle:

Blend all the drizzle ingredients and pour over cooled scones. Allow to harden for a few minutes then enjoy with your favorite cup of tea!

If there are any leftovers, wrap tightly and keep at room temperature or freeze for future enjoyment!

Makes 12 scones.