Tea Blog

Chai has its roots in ancient India, where it was first brewed with spices and herbs for medicinal purposes. Over time, it evolved into a popular beverage enjoyed across the country and, later, around the world.

Rich, spiced, and perfectly creamy, a chai latte blends bold tea with aromatic spices and smooth milk for the perfect cozy cup. It somehow makes your kitchen feel like your favorite cafe, minus the $7 price tag.

Let’s break down how to make this classic drink in your own kitchen.

WHAT MAKES UP A CHAI LATTE

Keep it basic and get a great chai latte. 

Essentials

• Chai: Chai is a black tea infused with ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and pepper giving it that distinctive spiced flair. It's aromatic and bold, perfect for a cozy pick-me-up.
• Milk: Milk gives a chai latte its signature creamy texture. Whole milk creates a rich, velvety feel, while oat, almond, or soy milk offer delicious dairy-free options.
• Sweetener: A touch of sweetness ties everything together. Honey, sugar, maple syrup, or vanilla syrup all work beautifully with chai’s spice-forward flavor.

Chai lattes are anything but “blah"; they’re layered, cozy, and just a little indulgent.

Tea Selection

The star here is chai! We recommend using loose leaf chai for the fullest flavor. Blends like Chai Love, or Cozy Chai for a caffeine free version, contain whole, real spices for a more robust taste.

Milk and Alternatives

When it comes to milk, there are so many great options to make your Chai Latte dreamy and creamy.

• Whole Milk: rich and creamy
• Oat Milk: naturally sweet and froths well
• Almond Milk: lighter with a subtle nutty flavor
  

Flavor Enhancements

Want to elevate your chai latte? Try:

• Vanilla Extract: Vanilla can soften sharp spices if that's what you desire.
• Star Anise: A classic garnish and pop of flavor for your chai latte, but be aware that it's impactful. 
• Cinnamon or Nutmeg: Dust the top of your chai latte with some cinnamon or nutmeg to further draw out the spicy flavors. 

These little upgrades can take your latte from good to unforgettable.

Brewing the Perfect Chai

Brewing the tea is where it all begins. Getting this part right is crucial for that perfect aroma and flavor.

• Choose Your Tea: Start with a high-quality Chai.
• Water Matters: Boil fresh, filtered water. Once it reaches a rolling boil, let it cool for about a minute. This helps to prevent the tea from becoming too bitter. Your ideal water temperature is 195 degrees.

• Steep Correctly: Pour the hot water over the tea and let it steep for about 5 minutes. If you want a stronger flavor, go for 8 minutes.

Chai is meant to be robust—it needs to stand up to milk and sweetener.

Chai Latte Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 tsp Loose Leaf Chai
• 1/4 cup Water (approximately) 
• 1 cup Milk of choice
• 1 tsp Sweetener (honey, sugar, or syrup)

Instructions:

• Brew 2 tsp of Loose Leaf Chai in approximately a 1/4 cup of hot water for 5 to 10 minutes. Add just enough hot water to cover the tea leaves.
• While the tea is steeping, heat your 1 cup of Milk.
• Add the hot Milk to your already brewing tea, stir it all together.
• Add 1 tsp of Sweetener to your cup.
• Strain your tea-milk mixture into your cup.
• Optional: Pull your chai.
• Optional: Garnish with Star Anise, Cinnamon, Whipped Cream, or other fun toppings!
  

With this easy recipe, you'll have a delicious Chai Latte to warm your hands and heart, all while savoring the fragrant blend of black tea and spices.

Perfect Pairings

When enjoying a warm Chai Latte, why not add a tasty treat on the side? Here are some goodies that are just perfect to munch on while enjoying your beverage:

• Pumpkin Cake: Pumpkin desserts often contain spices very similar to those in chai, so they pair perfectly.
• Parathas: Flaky, buttery flatbreads are a traditional dipping companion.
• Cheesecake: The tanginess of the cream cheese provides a lovely contrast to the spicy tea.
• Ginger Snaps: The sharp bite of ginger in the cookie intensifies the warmth of the tea.

• Banana Bread: A slightly overripe banana flavor softens the spicy kick of the latte.

By adding a few of these snacks, you can turn an ordinary latte into an extra special treat.

Try It Yourself

You've learned the secrets to crafting a delicious Chai Latte. Now it's your turn to put on your barista apron and try making one yourself. You might just find it's your new go-to latte!