Fruits Teas

Oven-dried fruit imparts subtle flavor in both Black Apple Tea and spicy Chai Tea Mix; metal tins, with colorful paper liners and airtight lids, keep these gifts fresh. Steep 2 teaspoons of the tea mixture and 1 apple slice in 1 cup hot water for 2 minutes for a comforting winter brew.

• 1 sweet, crisp apple, such as Fuji or Gala
• 2 tablespoon(s) lemon juice
• 2 teaspoon(s) confectioner's sugar
• 1/2 cup(s) (loosely packed) black tea
• 15 whole(s) cloves

Dry the apple slices: Preheat oven to 200°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. Fill a medium bowl with ice, water, and lemon juice and set aside. Slice the apple into 1/16-inch-thick slices and let soak in the water bath for 5 minutes. Place apple slices on prepared baking sheet, sprinkle with sugar, and bake until crisp and dry -- about 90 minutes.
Mix the tea: Combine the tea, cloves, and apples in a small bowl, transfer to an airtight container, and store for up to 6 months.