There’s a certain delight in unwrapping a treasure trove of flavors, and the Tea Forte Sampler Variety Box offers just that. Each elegant pyramid sachet presents a world of refined taste: the brisk notes of Earl Grey, the verdant freshness of Green Tea, the floral whisper of Jasmine, and the warming embrace of herbal infusions. Packaged in a beautifully designed box, it feels like a gift to myself every time I open it here in Coventry, Pennsylvania.

Experience these luxurious blends for yourself:

Tea Forte® Sampler Variety Box

To complement such a sophisticated selection, I’ve chosen a classic bakery staple—Vanilla Bean Scones—light, buttery, and scented with real vanilla. They’re perfect for pairing across the full spectrum of teas in this sampler.

Vanilla Bean Scones

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 vanilla bean (or 2 teaspoons vanilla extract)
• 6 tablespoons (85 g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 2/3 cup (160 ml) heavy cream, plus extra for brushing
• 1 large egg
• Turbinado sugar, for sprinkling

Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Infuse Vanilla: If using a vanilla bean, split it and scrape the seeds into the dry mix. If using extract, add later with wet ingredients.
4. Cut in Butter: Add cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter (or fingers) to work until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
5. Add Wet Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk cream, egg, and vanilla extract (if using). Pour into flour mixture and stir until just combined; dough will be slightly sticky.
6. Shape & Cut: Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and pat into a 1-inch-thick round. Use a 2½-inch cutter (or glass) to cut scones, re-rolling scraps once if needed.
7. Finish & Bake: Place scones on the prepared sheet, brush tops with extra cream, and sprinkle with turbinado sugar. Bake 15–18 minutes until golden.
8. Serve Warm: Let cool slightly on a rack. Serve with clotted cream, jam, or honey alongside your favorite Tea Forte blend.

These tender, vanilla-scented scones let each exquisite tea flavor shine. May they bring a gentle luxury to your teatime, just as they do to mine.

—Mom Mom (Grandma Helen)