"A Tea Bauble"

      There are so many spices, fruit and sweet treats that can be added to a hot cup of tea to enhance its flavor. But you wouldn’t want to swallow any of them whole. Tea Baubles are a unique way to enrich the cups of tea you’re serving. 
      Tea Baubles can be made with a variety of whole spices, fresh fruit pieces and sweet additives. Here is a sample listing: 

                                        
                    


            *  Cinnamon sticks                 *  Orange slices
            *  Star anise                            *  Lime slices
            *  Whole nutmeg                    *  Crystallized ginger pieces
            *  Dried fruit pieces                *  Fresh raspberries
            *  Rock candy sticks                *  Fresh strawberries
            *  Fresh mint                          *  Peach slices
            *  Lemon slices                       *  Pepeprmint sticks


      Taking a long length of very thin ribbon (approximately 1/8” wide), tie up any combination of the above condiments and finish with a pretty little bow. Set the “spicy/sweet gift” into the teacup with the ribbon sitting outside and let the tea steep the flavors. 
      And don’t forget to put an extra saucer next to each place setting. You and your guests will want to have somewhere appropriate to dispose of the Tea Bauble so you can drink your tea without poking your eye out!