^{This post has been sponsored by Mark T. Wendell. All opinions expressed are my own.}

Wrapping up the year with Mark T. Wendell's Holiday Collection that features the pleasant flavors and aromas of winter and Christmas. Their latest collection pairs perfectly with an array of holiday delights, especially cookies.

Today's recipe features a lightly sweet, delicate pecan cookie rolled in confectioner's sugar.

A Great Love Affair

I remember reading a quote from Honoré de Balzac some time back that went, "Great love affairs start with champagne and end with tisane."

That quote served as the inspiration behind today's post. I wanted to create a setting for the season that captured the feeling and essence of a warm, cozy day spent indoors- homemade cookies, a fresh brew of tea, a good book, or perhaps a period piece film.

I think Mark T. Wendell perfectly captures that moment as well. Their warm seasonal blends like Holiday Fruit & Spice, Marzipan Walnut Rose Black, and Chocolate Mint pair perfectly with an array of holiday baked treats.

If you are looking to find the perfect gift for your holiday hosts or fellow tea lovers, I suggest browsing through the Mark T. Wendell Tea Company catalog. Their quality is unmatched and right now for all LTG readers, when you use "LivingtheGourmet" at checkout, you'll save 15% off an order of $50!

Holiday Fruit & Spice - This aromatic blend features a mixture of select Indian black tea leaves, fruity orange pieces, bits of tart cranberries, spicy ginger and warming cinnamon sticks. It quickly became one of my favorite teas to date, and best of all, it will now be available year-round.
Marzipan Walnut Rose Black - This romantic variety is made of select China Congou black tea, bits of marzipan pieces, walnuts and almonds, with delicate roses scattered throughout. It's a perfect blend to enjoy on a wintry day (or evening)!
Chocolate Mint - This sweet blend is made up of select black tea featuring fresh-cut peppermint leaves, and delicate cacao pieces. It's a perfect after-dinner brew that's sweet and satisfying.

Tea Cookies

Naturally, teas are best served alongside something be it, tea sandwiches, cakes, or in today's case cookies.

These Pecan Snowball Cookies are a holiday quintessential. They're lightly sweet and delicately crisp. Rolled in powdered sugar for that 'snowfall' effect that would suit any of today's featured teas.

The recipe is simple and a perfect addition to any holiday cookie tray or box. In fact, everything today would be perfect for a customized holiday hamper. There is nothing better than the gift of home-baked goods and a gourmet tea blend.