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Chai Tea Latte

Chai Tea Latte Recipe

Ground cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and ginger combine with instant tea and brown sugar to create a concentrated spice blend that transforms into a creamy, aromatic latte. This homemade version delivers café-quality warmth and comfort for pennies, with complete control over sweetness and the satisfaction of a hug in a mug made in minutes.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 7 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Beverage
Cuisine: Indian-Inspired
Calories: 185
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar or honey
  • 1 teaspoon instant tea unsweetened or no flavoring
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 1/2 cups low-fat milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla

Method
 

  1. Begin by combining your dry ingredients in a small bowl or cup. Mix together 1 teaspoon instant tea, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves, 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom, and 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger.
  2. Add 3 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey if you prefer) to the spice mixture and stir well to combine. This blend creates the concentrated flavor base that gives chai tea latte its distinctive warm, spiced character. Guarantee all ingredients are fully incorporated before moving to the next step.
  3. Heat 1 1/2 cups low-fat milk in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s steaming and small bubbles begin to form around the edges—do not let it boil. Once the milk reaches the desired temperature, slowly pour it into your spice and sugar mixture while stirring constantly.
  4. This gradual combination helps dissolve the ingredients evenly and prevents clumping. Stir vigorously for about 30 seconds to ensure all the spices, tea, and sweetener are fully incorporated into the milk.
  5. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla to the mixture and stir thoroughly to blend. Pour the finished chai tea latte into your favorite mug and serve immediately while it’s still hot. If you prefer a smoother texture without visible spice particles, you can strain the latte through a fine-mesh sieve before serving.
  6. The result should be a creamy, aromatic beverage with a rich spiced flavor and inviting warmth perfect for any time of day.

Notes

What is Chai Tea? History and Origins

Chai tea originated in India centuries ago as a traditional beverage made from black tea blended with aromatic spices like cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. The word “chai” simply means tea in Hindi, but Western markets use it to describe the spiced version.
This warming drink became deeply embedded in Indian culture, traditionally prepared by street vendors and served in households across the country. The exact spice blend varies by region and family recipes, making each version uniquely special and personal.
 
The British colonial period significantly influenced chai’s modern popularity. When the British established tea plantations in Assam, India, locals began blending the strong black tea with milk and spices, creating the rich beverage we know today.
British influence introduced the concept of afternoon tea culture, but Indians transformed it into something entirely their own. This fusion of cultures created what became one of the world’s most beloved tea drinks, eventually spreading to cafés worldwide.
 
Today’s chai tea latte represents a modern interpretation of this ancient tradition, bringing warmth and comfort to coffee shops globally. The spices in chai—cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves—have been valued in Ayurvedic medicine for their digestive and anti-inflammatory properties.
While Western versions often emphasize sweetness and milk, authentic chai celebrates the bold spice flavors. Understanding chai’s rich history enhances appreciation for this timeless beverage and the cultural significance it holds across generations and continents.