A Guide to Coffee and Tea Condiments

If you like to alter the flavor of your coffee or tea through the use of sweeteners, creamers, or flavored syrups, this guide is for you! Never before have we had so many choices when it comes to sweetening brewed beverages. The possibilities for coffee and tea creations are endless.

Let's take a look at the various types of sweeteners on the market today.

White Sugar:
There are many types of granulated sugar, but the most common form available to consumers is "Regular", "Extra Fine", or "Fine Sugar". White sugar is available in individual packets, canisters, 1- to 10-pound bags, and sugar cubes.

Buying in bulk is the most economical way to purchase sugar. Individual packets and sugar cubes generally cost more per pound, but provide additional convenience. Personally, I think serving sugar cubes with tea or coffee is much more elegant than dumping in a teaspoon or two. The choice is completely up to you, as each form is effective in sweetening either coffee or tea.

Raw Sugar:
Raw sugar is a natural, unrefined sugar made from sugar cane. Juice is extracted from the sugar cane, than crystallized through evaporation. The crystals are rinsed with a small amount of water to remove the sticky resin produced by the cane. Raw sugar is also referred to as Turbinado sugar. It is available in individual packets, 1-pound box and bulk. Raw sugar is available in some major grocery chains. Bulk raw sugar can be found in most health food stores.

Liquid Sugar:
Liquid sugar is made from pure cane sugar and comes in a variety of types including white sugar, Turbinado sugar, and organic sugars. Liquid sugar is sold under the name of "SugarShots" and is available only through select retailers. It's convenient and easy to use; although it's a little on the expensive side. A 12-ounce bottle retails for about $7.00 and provides approximately 24 servings.

Honey:
Honey is the perfect addition to nearly any cup of freshly brewed tea. Honey is primarily composed of fructose, glucose and water. It also contains other sugars as well trace enzymes, minerals, vitamins and amino acids.