Build a Tea Trolley for Holiday Parties

There is something so comforting about gathering around a warm drink during the holiday season. For our Instagram live holiday event tonight, I am sharing a beautiful Holiday Tea Trolley filled with simple tea infusions that make your home feel inviting and festive. This setup is perfect for Christmas entertaining, holiday brunches, or a quiet evening at home.


Carmen’s Tea Infusion Blend Recipes

Cardamom Citrus Cinnamon Infusion

Best for warm Christmas flavor

This infusion smells like Christmas morning in a cup. Cardamom pods, star anise, cinnamon, and orange peel create a rich and cozy aroma. Serve in clear glass mugs so everyone can enjoy the floating spices. The color and fragrance together feel like a holiday memory.

Shopping List:

  • Cardamom pods

  • Star anise

  • Cinnamon sticks

  • Fresh oranges (for peel)

  • Honey

Winter Berry Mint Delight

Best for a bright and refreshing holiday tea

Fresh or frozen cranberries add a beautiful ruby color while mint keeps everything crisp. A little lemon brings just the right amount of brightness. This infusion is wonderful warm, but it is also delicious served over ice for a festive punch.

Shopping List:

  • Fresh or frozen cranberries

  • Fresh mint

  • Lemons

  • Honey or agave (optional)

Ginger Pear Glow

Best for a soft and soothing winter drink

Fresh pear, ginger, and cinnamon create a gentle and calming infusion that is perfect for evenings at home. Sweeten it lightly with honey and add a pear slice on the rim of the cup. It is simple, elegant, and always a guest favorite.

Shopping List:

  • Fresh pears

  • Fresh ginger

  • Cinnamon sticks or ground cinnamon

  • Honey (optional)

London Holiday Twist

Best for tea lovers who enjoy a cozy vanilla flavor

This recipe is inspired by the classic tea service at The Ritz in London. Orange peel, vanilla, honey, and a touch of clove create a warm and luxurious sip. Pair it with almond cookies or shortbread for a beautiful after dinner treat.

Shopping List:

  • Fresh oranges (for peel) or dried orange peel

  • Vanilla bean or pure vanilla extract

  • Whole cloves

  • Honey

  • Fresh ginger (optional, for added warmth)

  • Fine Grater

How to Assemble A Holiday Tea Infusion Bar

One of the stars of this Tea Infusion Bar is a stunning patisserie stand from Ballard Designs. It displays loose teas and ingredients in the prettiest way and instantly makes your presentation feel polished. You can find my favorite one here:Tap for Ballard Designs patisserie stand.

A good kettle is essential for brewing each infusion, and a few classic teapots complete the look. These are functional pieces, but they also add charm and warmth to your table.

Shop my favorite tea items here:

Glass Teapot Set with warming stand

Glass Teapot for Infusions

Glass Teapot Warmer Stand

Tea Kettle

French Press

Harney & Sons Loose Leaf Hot Cinnamon Tea

All four recipes below come from our Holiday Tea Trolley Infusion guide. They are simple to prepare, naturally beautiful, and perfect for guests.

Tips for Creating Your Own Holiday Tea Trolley

A holiday tea display is about more than ingredients. It is about the feeling it creates and the thoughtful touches that welcome your guests.

Here are a few ideas to elevate your Tea Trolley at home.

Use beautiful containers
Place loose teas or garnishes in small bowls, jars, or a patisserie stand.

Add seasonal touches
Fresh greens, ribbons, or a bowl of cranberries bring instant holiday charm.

Choose a variety of flavors
Offer something spicy, something fruity, something calming, and something dessert inspired.

Set everything out for guests
Include honey, citrus slices, and extra herbs so everyone can customize their cup. You could even have a “Snip and Sip” herbal bar with live plants like mint, lavender, lemon balm, rosemary, or thyme for guests to steep fresh herbs directly off the plant.

A Tea Trolley invites guests to relax, slow down, and enjoy a warm moment together. During the busy holiday season, that little pause feels like a gift.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Tea Trolley?
A Tea Trolley is a small rolling cart or stylish display used to serve tea, infusions, baked treats, or seasonal beverages. Similar to a bar cart, but for tea! They are somewhat old-fashioned, but I think we need to bring them back in style! What do you think? Let’s do it! It makes entertaining simple and beautiful.

What do I need to set up a Holiday Tea Trolley?
You will need a trolley or serving cart (or just use your kitchen countertop!), a kettle, one or two teapots, loose tea or infusion ingredients, and small containers for garnishes. A patisserie stand is a lovely touch.

Can I prepare these infusions ahead of time?
Yes. Most of the ingredients can be sliced or measured earlier in the day. For the freshest flavor, add boiling water right before serving.

What flavors work best for Christmas tea recipes?
Warm spices, citrus, ginger, cranberries, mint, and vanilla are classic flavors that create a cozy holiday feel.

Can I serve these infusions without caffeine?
Absolutely. All four of the tea infusions listed above are naturally caffeine free.

 

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