Tea and Chocolate Pairings from a Tea Expert

Any time I find a new way to combine tea with another beloved treat, it feels like discovering a hidden gem.

As a certified tea sommelier, I’ve had my fair share of delightful pairings, but nothing quite matches the alchemy of tea and chocolate. Whether it’s a crisp green tea with a zesty citrus chocolate or a lovely black tea with a rich, dark truffle, the possibilities are endless—and delicious.

In this guide, I’ll share my favourite tea and chocolate pairings with you.

Why Pair Tea and Chocolate?

Tea and chocolate share more similarities than you might think.

Both come from botanicals—tea from the Camellia sinensis plant and chocolate from the cacao bean. Both also undergo a fermentation process that enhances their complex flavours.

When paired correctly, tea and chocolate can elevate each other’s tasting notes, creating a sensory experience that’s greater than the sum of its parts.

The Science Behind Tea and Chocolate Pairings

The secret to a perfect pairing lies in balancing flavours and textures. A tannic, brisk tea can cut through the richness of chocolate, while a sweet or floral tea can highlight the chocolate’s subtler notes. Additionally, the temperature of the tea can enhance the melt-in-the-mouth experience of fine chocolate, creating a luxurious feel with every sip and bite.

My Favourite Tea and Chocolate Pairings

1. Dark Chocolate and Black Tea

There’s something magical about the combination of robust black tea and intense dark chocolate. The rich notes of teas like Assam or Yunnan Dian Hong pair beautifully with the bitterness of high-percentage dark chocolate.

I particularly enjoy this pairing on a rainy afternoon, with the comforting warmth of tea and the indulgence of chocolate providing a perfect pick-me-up.

2. Milk Chocolate and Oolong Tea

Milk chocolate’s creamy, sweet profile calls for a tea with depth and a touch of fruitiness. Lightly roasted oolong teas, such as Tie Guan Yin, have delicate floral and stone fruit notes that complement the milky sweetness. This pairing is wonderful for a casual tea break or as a delightful end to a meal.

3. White Chocolate and Green Tea

For those who love the sweet, buttery nature of white chocolate, a grassy and slightly astringent green tea offers a wonderful contrast. Japanese Sencha or Chinese Long Jing (Dragon Well) work particularly well.

I once served this pairing at a tea-tasting event, and guests loved how the fresh tea balanced the creamy white chocolate.

4. Flavoured Chocolates and Herbal Teas

If you love chocolates infused with spices, fruits, or herbs, there’s an herbal tea to match. For example, an orange-infused chocolate goes beautifully with a spiced chai, while a mint chocolate is perfect with a refreshing peppermint tea.

Tea and chocolate pairings offer a world of flavours to explore. In fact, there’s no right or wrong when it comes to personal taste. Lay out a selection of teas and chocolates and try different combinations. Make notes of what works best for your palate—you might just discover a new favourite!

I hope this guide inspires you to try something new. Next time you steep a pot of tea, why not reach for a bit of chocolate too?