Chai, a black tea blend from India, literally translates to “tea” in Hindi and is renowned for its rich flavor, derived from an array of spices such as ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, fennel, black pepper and cloves. Modern chai tea lattes differ from chai tea, adapting this traditional recipe by incorporating frothed hot milk and added sugars for a creamy, sweet twist.
This chai tea latte not only offers a comforting and aromatic experience but also provides potential health benefits, thanks to cinnamon and black tea, which may help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Serve it hot or iced, and enjoy a moderate caffeine boost. Once you know how to make chai tea latte, it’s perfect for a cozy afternoon or as a versatile addition to desserts like cookies and bread pudding.
Ingredients for Chai Tea Latte
- Black tea: Use high-quality tea bags to enhance the overall depth and flavor of your latte.
- Spices: Ground cinnamon, ground ginger and ground allspice are essential for this recipe, infusing the drink with a warm, spicy aroma and rich, complex flavor. These spices work together to create the signature chai taste.
- Milk: Whole milk adds a creamy richness and balances the bold flavors of the tea and spices.
- Brown sugar: Adding brown sugar gives the latte a subtle caramel sweetness.
- Creamer: A splash of French vanilla nondairy creamer adds a smooth, vanilla-flavored creaminess that enriches the texture and taste.
- Toppings (optional): For an extra touch of indulgence, top your latte with whipped topping and a sprinkle of ground nutmeg.
Directions
Step 1: Brew the tea
Place the tea bags, cinnamon, ginger and allspice in the coffee filter of a drip coffeemaker. Add water, then brew according to the manufacturer’s directions.
Step 2: Make the latte
In a small saucepan, combine the milk, brown sugar and creamer. Cook and stir over medium heat until the mix is heated through and the sugar is dissolved. Pour the milk mixture into mugs, then stir in the tea. If desired, dollop the top with whipped topping and sprinkle with nutmeg.
Chai Tea Latte Variations
- Make it iced: Brew the tea and spices as usual, then chill the mixture. Serve the latte over ice with cold milk for a refreshing iced chai latte.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of ground cloves and black pepper for an extra kick of warmth and spice.
- Pumpkin spice it: Stir 1 tablespoon of pumpkin puree and a dash of pumpkin pie spice into the milk mixture for a seasonal treat.
How to Store Chai Tea Latte
To store chai tea latte, allow the beverage to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the latte gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring well. For an iced version, simply pour the chilled latte over ice.
Chai Tea Latte Tips
Can I make this recipe without a drip coffeemaker?
Yes, you can steep the tea bags and spices in boiling water for five to seven minutes using a teapot or saucepan, then strain before mixing with the milk.
Can I use loose leaf tea instead of tea bags?
Absolutely! Use approximately 2 teaspoons of loose leaf black tea in a tea infuser or strainer for the same robust flavor.
How can I make my chai tea latte less sweet?
Reduce the amount of brown sugar, or substitute it with a natural sweetener like stevia to control the sweetness level.
What’s in a chai tea?
Chai tea is a black tea blend from India, and the word chai literally translates to “tea” in Hindi. The tea is full of flavor because of its many spices, like ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, fennel, black pepper and cloves. Star anise, coriander seeds and peppercorns are other well-liked options. Chai tea lattes are a newer adaptation to the original recipe. They typically contain frothed hot milk and added sugars to give it more of a “latte” flavor.
Are there any benefits to chai tea?
Chai tea contains cinnamon and black tea, both of which may help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Other blends with different spices will add more benefits.
How do you drink chai tea?
Chai tea recipes can be served hot or over ice. You can also try adding chai to many dessert recipes like cookies and bread pudding.
Does chai tea give you energy?
Chai tea typically contains about a third of the caffeine you would find in a cup of coffee, so you’ll still feel an energy boost. Looking for a caffeine kick? Check out these other caffeinated drinks and snacks.
