Chai Latte

A chai latte is a warm, spiced tea beverage that blends black tea with aromatic spices and creamy milk, creating a comforting and flavorful drink perfect for any time of day. Inspired by traditional Indian masala chai, the chai latte has become a beloved drink across the globe, offering a perfect balance of spice and sweetness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chai latte recipe is a perfect combination of bold black tea, warming spices, and rich milk. It’s incredibly comforting, easy to make at home, and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re avoiding the high sugar content of store-bought versions or simply want to enjoy a cozy homemade drink, this recipe delivers that authentic café experience right in your kitchen.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Water

• Black tea (loose-leaf or tea bags)

• Milk (dairy or non-dairy)

• Cinnamon stick or ground cinnamon

• Fresh ginger or ground ginger

• Cloves

• Cardamom pods or ground cardamom

• Black peppercorns or ground pepper

• Sweetener (such as honey, sugar, or maple syrup)

• Vanilla extract (optional)

directions

1. In a saucepan, bring water to a boil along with all the spices: cinnamon, ginger, cloves, cardamom, and black pepper.

2. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 5 minutes to extract the flavors.

3. Add the black tea to the saucepan and simmer for another 3–5 minutes.

4. Pour in the milk and sweetener, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer again.

5. Once heated, strain the chai latte through a fine mesh sieve into mugs.

6. Serve hot and enjoy.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 2 servings.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10–15 minutes
Total time: 15–20 minutes

Variations

• Iced Chai Latte: Let the mixture cool and pour it over ice for a refreshing version.

• Non-Dairy Option: Use almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk for a dairy-free latte.

• Extra Spicy: Increase the quantity of ginger and black pepper for more heat.

• Chai Concentrate: Double the spice and tea concentration and store it in the fridge. Mix with milk when ready to serve.

• Vanilla Chai: Add a dash of vanilla extract for a smooth, sweet flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftover chai latte in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. If using dairy milk, avoid boiling when reheating to prevent curdling.

FAQs

What is the difference between chai and a chai latte?

Chai refers to spiced tea traditionally made in India, usually with milk. A chai latte is a Western adaptation that often uses steamed milk, resembling the structure of a café latte.

Can I make a chai latte without black tea?

Yes, you can make a caffeine-free version using rooibos tea or herbal blends. The spices will still provide a rich flavor.

Is a chai latte healthy?

Chai lattes can be healthy when made at home with minimal sweetener and nutritious milk options. Store-bought versions often contain more sugar.

What type of milk is best for a chai latte?

Whole milk provides a creamy texture, but oat milk, almond milk, or soy milk are excellent dairy-free alternatives.

Can I use ground spices instead of whole?

Yes, ground spices can be used, though they may not strain as cleanly as whole spices. Adjust the amounts to avoid overpowering the drink.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes, you can make a large batch of chai concentrate and refrigerate it. Mix with milk and heat when ready to serve.

How sweet should a chai latte be?

Sweetness is entirely based on personal preference. Start with a small amount of sweetener and adjust to taste.

What kind of black tea should I use?

Assam or Darjeeling teas are traditional, but any strong black tea will work well.

Can I froth the milk for a chai latte?

Yes, frothing the milk will give your chai latte a café-style finish. Use a milk frother or whisk vigorously while heating.

Why is my chai latte bitter?

Over-steeping the tea or using too many spices can make the drink bitter. Try reducing steeping time or adjusting the spice ratios.

Conclusion

Crafting a chai latte at home is a rewarding and comforting experience. With its perfect blend of spices, tea, and creamy milk, this drink is both soothing and flavorful. Whether you’re warming up on a cold day or craving a cozy moment, this homemade chai latte offers a delicious, customizable alternative to store-bought versions.