Artful Tea Recipe

Heat Water

Bring the filtered water to a near-boil (about 200°F / 93°C). If you don't have a thermometer, bring to a rolling simmer and let sit 30 seconds.

Steep Tea

Place the 2 tsp loose leaf black tea in a teapot or infuser. Pour the hot water over the leaves. Steep for 3.5 to 4 minutes for a full-bodied cup but not overly bitter. Adjust steep time to taste.

After steeping, strain the leaves and pour the brewed tea into a warmed cup. Reserve the teapot/infuser to combine with milk later if desired.

Heat and Froth

While the tea steeps, warm the whole milk and heavy cream together in a small saucepan over low heat until steaming (do not boil) — about 2 to 3 minutes. If you like a silky microfoam, use a milk frother or whisk vigorously for 20–30 seconds to create foam.

If serving without dairy, omit this section and proceed to Sweeteners & Flavor Accents.

Sweeten

Add the honey and vanilla syrup to the brewed tea and stir until dissolved. Taste and add more honey or syrup if you prefer sweeter.

Spice & Zest

Stir in the pinch of ground cinnamon and the orange zest to the tea. These small accents brighten and layer the flavor; adjust amounts to taste.

If using the warmed milk/cream, pour the milk mixture into the sweetened tea, holding back foam with a spoon if desired, then spoon foam on top.

Sprinkle the edible dried flowers over the foam or directly on the tea surface for a decorative touch. Finish with a light pinch of ground nutmeg.

Serve immediately while warm. Present with a small teaspoon and, if you like, an extra drizzle of honey at the side for guests to adjust sweetness.