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Homemade Chai Tea Latte Recipe Easy Perfect Spiced Drink for Winter

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A warm, spiced chai tea latte made with whole spices and black tea, perfect for cozy winter days. This easy recipe is customizable, comforting, and uses simple pantry staples.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (240 ml) water
  • 2 teaspoons black tea leaves or 2 black tea bags (Assam or Darjeeling)
  • 2 cinnamon sticks (about 3 inches each)
  • 6 green cardamom pods, slightly crushed
  • 6 whole cloves
  • 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
  • 1-inch fresh ginger, sliced thinly
  • 1 cup (240 ml) milk (whole milk or almond/oat milk for dairy-free)
  • 2 tablespoons sweetener (brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup, adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup (240 ml) water with cinnamon sticks, crushed cardamom pods, cloves, peppercorns, and sliced ginger. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
  2. Lower the heat and simmer the spices for 8-10 minutes, adding a splash of water if it reduces too much.
  3. Add the black tea leaves or tea bags and steep for 3-5 minutes (4 minutes recommended for bold flavor).
  4. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a clean saucepan or serving pot, discarding spices and tea leaves.
  5. Add 1 cup (240 ml) of your choice of milk to the strained chai and warm over low heat, stirring gently. Avoid boiling.
  6. Stir in 2 tablespoons sweetener and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract if using. Adjust sweetness to taste.
  7. Optional: Froth the chai tea latte using a handheld frother or shake vigorously in a sealed jar for 20 seconds.
  8. Serve immediately in your favorite mug, optionally sprinkled with cinnamon or nutmeg.

Notes

Use fresh whole spices for best flavor. Avoid boiling milk to prevent curdling. Adjust sweetener to taste to avoid masking spices. For a dairy-free version, use almond, oat, or coconut milk. Chai concentrate can be made ahead and stored without milk for up to 3-5 days in the fridge.

Nutrition

Keywords: chai tea latte, homemade chai, spiced tea, winter drink, easy chai recipe, dairy-free chai, cozy beverage