Chai Latte
Why Make This Recipe
Chai latte is a delicious and warm drink that combines the flavors of tea and spices with creamy milk. It’s perfect for cozy afternoons or as a delightful way to start your day. Making your own chai latte means you can control the sweetness, adjust the spices, and create a comforting beverage that can warm you from the inside out.
How to Make Chai Latte
Ingredients:
- 3 cinnamon sticks (plus more for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
- 5 whole cloves
- 4 green cardamom pods (crushed)
- 2 star anise
- 2½ cups almond milk (or any milk, plus more foamed milk for topping if desired)
- 1 (1-inch) piece fresh ginger (thinly sliced)
- 2 black tea bags
- 2 teaspoons maple syrup (plus more to taste)
- Ground cinnamon (for dusting, optional)
Directions:
- Place the cinnamon sticks, peppercorns, cloves, cardamom pods, and star anise in a small pot. Toast them over medium heat for 1 to 2 minutes, or until they smell fragrant.
- Add the almond milk and ginger, then reduce the heat to low. Gently simmer for 5 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and add the tea bags. Cover the pot and let the tea steep for 10 minutes.
- Set a fine mesh strainer over a bowl or measuring cup. Pour the tea mixture through the strainer to remove the spices, tea bags, and ginger.
- Stir in the maple syrup, adding more to taste. Pour the chai latte into mugs and top with foamed milk, if desired. Garnish each mug with a cinnamon stick and dust with ground cinnamon, if you like.
How to Serve Chai Latte
Serve your hot chai latte in a cozy mug. You can add more foamed milk on top for a creamy finish. Consider pairing it with some cookies or a pastry for a delightful treat.
How to Store Chai Latte
If you have leftover chai latte, let it cool and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Tips to Make Chai Latte
- Adjust the spice levels according to your taste. If you love a stronger flavor, add more spices while toasting.
- Use different types of milk to change the taste. Almond, soy, or oat milk are great options.
- Sweeten your chai latte to your liking. You can use honey, agave syrup, or sugar instead of maple syrup.
Variation
For a different twist, try adding a splash of vanilla extract or a bit of turmeric for a golden chai latte. You can also experiment with different types of tea, such as rooibos or green tea.
FAQs
1. Can I make chai latte without milk?
Yes, you can make a chai latte using just water. Simply skip the milk and use the same spices and tea for a lighter version.
2. How can I make it vegan?
This recipe is already vegan if you use almond milk or any plant-based milk. Just ensure your sweetener is also vegan.
3. Can I use loose tea instead of tea bags?
Absolutely! Use about 2 tablespoons of loose black tea and strain it along with the spices when finished brewing.
4. Can I make chai latte in large batches?
Yes, you can multiply the ingredients and prepare a larger batch. Just adjust the simmering time as needed and store leftovers as mentioned above.
Chai Latte
Ingredients
Method
- Place the cinnamon sticks, peppercorns, cloves, cardamom pods, and star anise in a small pot. Toast them over medium heat for 1 to 2 minutes, or until they smell fragrant.
- Add the almond milk and ginger, then reduce the heat to low. Gently simmer for 5 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and add the tea bags. Cover the pot and let the tea steep for 10 minutes.
- Set a fine mesh strainer over a bowl or measuring cup. Pour the tea mixture through the strainer to remove the spices, tea bags, and ginger.
- Stir in the maple syrup, adding more to taste. Pour the chai latte into mugs and top with foamed milk, if desired.
- Garnish each mug with a cinnamon stick and dust with ground cinnamon, if you like.