This Easy Chai Latte brings together the warm, spiced flavors of traditional chai with the creamy comfort of a latte—all made quickly at home. It’s aromatic, cozy, and perfect for mornings or chilly afternoons.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love how it fills my kitchen with the scent of cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom. It tastes just like the ones from coffee shops, but I can customize the sweetness and spice level exactly how I like it. Plus, I save time and money by making it at home.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Black tea bags (or loose black tea)
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Water
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Milk (any kind: dairy or plant-based)
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Honey or sugar (to taste)
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Ground or whole spices: cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, ginger, black pepper
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Vanilla extract (optional for added flavor)
Directions
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I bring water and the spices to a gentle boil in a saucepan, letting them simmer for about 5 minutes to develop flavor.
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I add the black tea and let it steep for 3–5 minutes, depending on how strong I want it.
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I stir in the milk and sweetener, then warm everything together until hot but not boiling.
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I strain the chai into a mug to remove tea and spices.
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I optionally froth a little extra milk to spoon on top before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 2 servings and takes about 10–15 minutes to prepare.
Variations
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I switch out regular milk for oat milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version.
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I add a pinch of nutmeg for a slightly sweeter warmth.
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I brew the tea stronger if I want a more intense base.
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I use maple syrup instead of honey for a different depth of sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover chai in a sealed jar or container in the fridge for up to 2 days. I reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring well before serving. I always strain it before storing to avoid bitterness from sitting spices.
FAQs
Can I use chai tea bags instead of making my own spice blend?
Yes, I sometimes use pre-made chai tea bags for convenience, though the flavor is richer with whole spices.
What’s the best milk for frothing?
I find whole milk or barista-style oat milk froths best if I want that creamy latte top.
Can I make it iced?
Yes, I chill the chai and serve it over ice with cold milk for a refreshing iced version.
Do I need a milk frother?
Not at all. I sometimes whisk the milk vigorously or shake it in a jar to create froth.
Can I make a large batch?
Absolutely. I double or triple the recipe and store extra in the fridge for quick reheating.
Conclusion
This Easy Chai Latte is my favorite way to enjoy a warm, comforting drink full of rich spices without leaving home. It’s simple to make, totally customizable, and always hits the spot.
Print
Easy Chai Latte
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Chai Latte blends traditional chai spices with creamy milk for a cozy, aromatic drink you can make at home. Perfect for mornings or chilly afternoons, it’s customizable and comforting.
Ingredients
- 2 black tea bags (or 2 teaspoons loose black tea)
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1–2 tablespoons honey or sugar (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (or 1 cinnamon stick)
- 4 cardamom pods (or 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom)
- 3 whole cloves (or 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (or 3 thin slices fresh ginger)
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Bring water and spices to a gentle boil in a saucepan. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add black tea and steep for 3–5 minutes, depending on desired strength.
- Stir in milk and honey or sugar, then heat until hot but not boiling.
- Strain into mugs to remove tea leaves and spices.
- Optional: Froth extra milk and spoon on top before serving.
Notes
- Use pre-made chai tea bags for convenience.
- Substitute maple syrup for honey for a different sweetness profile.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.
- For iced chai, chill and serve over ice with cold milk.
- Store leftover chai (strained) in the fridge for up to 2 days; reheat gently before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 2.5g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
