Apple and Pear Cold Brew Tea
This recipe brings autumn flavours to your cold brew. Sweet apple and delicate pear complement the subtle, honey-like notes of white tea, creating a drink that bridges the seasons beautifully.
Instructions
- 1
Core and thinly slice both the apple and pear. Leave the skins on for extra flavour and colour.
- 2
Add the loose leaf white tea to a large glass jar or pitcher.
- 3
Add the apple and pear slices, and the cinnamon stick if using.
- 4
Pour the cold water over everything. Stir gently to combine.
- 5
Cover and refrigerate for 4-6 hours. White tea is delicate, so it does not need as long as black tea.
- 6
Strain the cold brew through a fine mesh strainer.
- 7
Serve over ice with fresh apple or pear slices. A drizzle of honey complements the flavours nicely.
Tips
- •Choose fragrant, ripe fruit for the best flavour. The pear should be ripe but still firm.
- •White tea is subtle, so do not over-steep or the fruit flavours will dominate completely.
- •This cold brew is naturally quite sweet and rarely needs additional sweetener.
- •Best enjoyed within 2-3 days while the fruit flavours are fresh.
Variations
- •Autumn Spice: Add a star anise and a few whole cloves for warming spice notes.
- •Apple Ginger: Skip the pear and add a few slices of fresh ginger.
- •Apple Green Tea: Swap the white tea for green tea for a slightly grassier base.
- •Sparkling Cider Tea: Top with sparkling apple cider for a festive version.
The Story Behind the Recipe
White tea is the least processed of all tea types, made from the youngest buds and leaves of the tea plant. Its natural flavor profile is delicate, with notes of honey, hay, and soft florals. Because it is so subtle, it is often overshadowed when paired with bold fruits like citrus or berries.
Apple and pear provide the perfect complement. These orchard fruits share the same gentle sweetness as high-quality white tea (like Silver Needle or White Peony). By cold brewing them together for 4-6 hours, we create a drink that bridges the gap between summer refreshment and autumnal warmth. It is sophisticated, naturally sweet, and incredibly light.
Flavour Profile
Expect a very clean, clear start. The pear adds a subtle graininess and floral aroma, while the apple provides a crisp, familiar sweetness. The white tea base ties it all together with a silky mouthfeel and a lingering honeyed finish.
Perfect Pairings
This is a wonderful alternative to dessert wine. It pairs beautifully with light cakes, fruit tarts, or even a salty prosciutto and melon appetizer. It is also refreshing enough to be enjoyed on its own as a midafternoon reward.
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