Chai Tea Latte with Frothed Milk

Introduction

A Chai Tea Latte with Frothed Milk is a comforting, aromatic drink that combines the spiced warmth of traditional chai with the creaminess of steamed and frothed milk. Originating from India’s beloved masala chai, this Western-inspired twist pairs strong black tea infused with warming spices—like cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves—with silky milk foam, making it both soothing and indulgent.

It’s the kind of drink that wraps you in warmth, perfect for cozy mornings, chilly afternoons, or as a pick-me-up treat any time of day. The froth adds café-style elegance while still being easy to prepare at home.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it blends the nostalgic flavors of traditional chai with the luxurious café experience of a latte. The spice mix awakens the senses, while the frothy milk adds creaminess that balances the boldness of the tea. It’s grounding, cozy, and energizing all at once. Plus, it’s far healthier and more customizable than store-bought chai lattes or pre-mixed concentrates.

Why It’s a Must-Try

• Café quality at home: No need for expensive coffee shop runs.
• Customizable: Adjust sweetness, spices, or milk type to your liking.
• Healthier: Uses natural spices and can be made with less sugar.
• Perfect for any season: Warming in winter, refreshing when iced in summer.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 2 cups
• Calories per serving: ~120–150 kcal (varies with milk choice and sweetener)

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: Indian-inspired (fusion of traditional masala chai and Western latte)
• Course: Beverage / Hot Drink

Ingredients

• 2 cups water
• 2 black tea bags (or 2 tsp loose-leaf black tea)
• 1 cup milk (whole milk, oat milk, almond milk, or your choice)
• 2–3 tbsp sugar or honey (adjust to taste)
• 1 cinnamon stick (or 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon)
• 3–4 whole cardamom pods, lightly crushed (or 1/4 tsp ground cardamom)
• 3–4 whole cloves
• 1 small piece fresh ginger (or 1/2 tsp ground ginger)
• 2–3 black peppercorns (optional, for a slight kick)
• Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional, for garnish)

Simple Directions

1. Simmer water with spices for 5–7 minutes.
2. Add tea bags and steep for 3–4 minutes.
3. Stir in sugar and mix well.
4. Heat and froth milk separately.
5. Strain the tea, pour into mugs, top with frothed milk, and serve.

Step-by-Step Recipe Method

1. Boil Water & Spices: In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, ginger, and peppercorns. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until aromatic.
2. Add Tea: Drop in black tea bags or loose-leaf tea. Let steep for 3–4 minutes for a strong flavor.
3. Sweeten: Stir in sugar or honey until dissolved. Remove from heat.
4. Strain: Strain the tea mixture into a jug or directly into cups to remove the spices.
5. Heat & Froth Milk: Warm the milk in a saucepan or microwave until hot but not boiling. Froth using a handheld frother, French press, or whisk until foamy.
6. Assemble: Pour the strained chai tea into mugs, filling them halfway. Top with hot frothed milk.
7. Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle with nutmeg or cinnamon for a café-style finish.

How to Serve

• Serve hot in a large mug with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.
• Pair with cookies, biscotti, or traditional Indian snacks like samosas or pakoras.
• Can also be served iced by cooling the tea base and pouring it over ice before topping with cold frothed milk.

Additional Tips

• Use whole spices for the best flavor, but ground spices work in a pinch.
• Adjust spice intensity: simmer longer for stronger flavor, or reduce spices for a milder taste.
• A milk frother creates the creamiest foam, but a whisk or French press also works well.
• Sweeteners like maple syrup, coconut sugar, or agave can replace sugar.

Variations

1. Iced Chai Latte: Chill the tea base, then serve over ice with cold frothed milk.
2. Vanilla Chai Latte: Add a splash of vanilla extract for a smooth, dessert-like flavor.
3. Dirty Chai Latte: Add a shot of espresso for a caffeinated kick.
4. Vegan Chai Latte: Use oat, almond, or soy milk and a plant-based sweetener.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigeration: Store the brewed chai concentrate (without milk) in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze chai concentrate in ice cube trays for up to 1 month; reheat and add milk when serving.
• With Milk: Avoid storing the milk-mixed latte for long, as milk can separate—prepare fresh for best taste.

Special Equipment Needed

• Saucepan
• Strainer
• Milk frother (handheld, French press, or electric)
• Measuring cups & spoons

Conclusion

The Chai Tea Latte with Frothed Milk is the perfect blend of tradition and modern comfort. It captures the essence of spiced Indian chai while delivering the creamy indulgence of a latte. With customizable sweetness, spice levels, and milk options, it’s a versatile drink for any time of the year. Whether enjoyed hot on a chilly morning or iced in the summer, this chai latte is a must-try recipe that brings café-style sophistication straight to your kitchen.