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Although September feels more like a cooler summer in my home of Southern California, it also marks the time of year when my favorite fall flavor — yes, pumpkin spice — returns to shelves. While millions anticipate the beloved Pumpkin Spice Latte, I look forward to another type of brew. As an avid tea drinker and former marketing specialist at a tea company, I find myself choosing spiced teas over PSLs once autumn rolls around.
You see, tea is often described as a hug in a cup. And to me, there is no warmer hug than Tazo’s Pumpkin Spice Chai on a crisp autumn day.
What’s So Great About Tazo Pumpkin Spice Chai?
I love chai so much that I named my dog after the spiced tea, so finding Tazo Pumpkin Spice Chai was a significant moment for me. Black teas are my go-to, especially during the fall, for their deep and earthy flavor. (I also enjoy the higher caffeine content.) In comparison to most black teas, Tazo’s has more spice and depth of flavor.
This chai is a delicious and slightly spicy blend of cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, black pepper, licorice root, and, of course, pumpkin. Once brewed, the aroma is spiced and a little smoky with notes of cinnamon and cardamom really coming through. It’s smooth and light on the pumpkin, yet bold like a cup of coffee, without tasting too acidic or overwhelming.
What’s the Best Way to Use Tazo Pumpkin Spice Chai?
Most of the time, you’ll find me sipping a mug of this hot tea (with no milk and a few Madeleines) during a SoCal autumn evening. Occasionally, though, I’ll make myself a PSL-inspired iced version. It’s simple to make (although the first step requires a little patience) and I like that it’s not as sweet.
I let the brewed tea cool in a glass Mason jar to room temperature (this usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes). Add ice, a splash of almond milk, and a sprinkle of Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Pie Spice, and my refreshing twist is ready to drink.
If you’re tempted to add cold water to a glass with the tea bag to make the process quicker, don’t! Water at the optimal temperature for your tea not only kills any bacteria that can be found on the bag or tea leaves (especially if you’re storing your tea bags in a more humid environment), but it will also bring out the right balance of tannins, which are what give tea its signature bitter and herbal flavor. For milder brews, add cold water to your tea bags and refrigerate for about eight hours.
What seasonal drinks are you adding to your cart this fall? Tell us in the comments below.