Hot Spiced Pineapple Tea

No actual tea leaves in this one. It’s really a spiced pineapple punch: pineapple juice and water simmered with cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and sliced lemon until the kitchen smells like the holidays.

The 10-minute simmer does all the work. It pulls the warm spice oils out of the cinnamon and cloves and lets them infuse into the pineapple juice. Too short and you get flavored water. Too long and the cloves turn bitter and medicinal. Ten minutes is the sweet spot.

The lemon slices add a tart edge that keeps this from tasting like straight pineapple juice. Leave the rind on when you slice them. The oils in the lemon peel add a subtle bitterness that balances the sweetness.

This is naturally caffeine-free, which makes it a great option for evening holiday gatherings or for kids who want something warm and festive to sip.

Kitchen Tips

• Remove the whole cloves and cinnamon sticks before serving. Biting into a whole clove is an unpleasant surprise.
• Use unsweetened pineapple juice. Sweetened versions will be cloying once the spices concentrate the flavors.
• Make a double batch and keep it warm in a slow cooker on low for a party. It holds well for hours.

Variations

• Add a splash of dark rum or bourbon for an adults-only version on cold nights.
• Stir in a tablespoon of honey if you prefer it sweeter.
• Swap pineapple juice for apple cider for a more traditional spiced cider with a tropical twist.