Chai Latte from Scratch
Brew a comforting and aromatic Chai Latte at home, filled with spices and warmth, perfect for cozy evenings.
Ingredients
Spices and Tea
- 2-3 tablespoons Black tea leaves The robust base for your chai, full of rich flavor.
- 2 sticks Cinnamon sticks Adding warmth and sweetness.
- 6-8 pods Cardamom pods For an aromatic kick.
- 1 inch piece Ginger, sliced Adds a slight zing and health benefits.
- 3-4 Cloves These tiny powerhouses pack a flavor punch.
- 3-4 Black peppercorns Just a touch elevates the complexity.
Liquid Ingredients
- 2 cups Milk Use your favorite dairy or plant-based option.
- to taste Sweetener Honey, sugar, or maple syrup, depending on your preference.
Instructions
Prepare the Tea Base
- Start by boiling 2 cups of water in a medium saucepan.
- Once the water is bubbling, add the black tea leaves, cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods, sliced ginger, cloves, and black peppercorns.
- Allow this aromatic blend to simmer for about 5-7 minutes.
Add Milk and Sweetener
- After simmering, add the milk and bring the mixture back to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes. Sweeten it with your choice of sweetener until it’s just right.
- Remove from heat and strain through a fine-mesh sieve.
Serve
- Serve warm and enjoy, perhaps with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top.
Notes
Store any leftover chai in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For a make-ahead option, prepare the spice tea base, cool, and store it in the fridge.