Chai Tea Latte Recipe
Make Chai Tea Latte Recipe in just 20m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Chai Spice Mix
Tea & Sweetener
Milk & Finish
Method
Prepare Chai Spice Mix
- 1
Toast and bruise spices
In a small dry skillet over medium heat, add the peppercorns, cardamom pods, cloves, broken cinnamon stick, and star anise. Toast, stirring frequently, until fragrant and slightly darker, about 1 to 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool briefly. Lightly crush the toasted spices with the side of a knife or mortar and pestle to open the pods and release oils (coarse crush; do not powder).
- 2
Prep ginger
Peel and slice fresh ginger into thin rounds (approximately 1 tablespoon). If you prefer stronger ginger flavor, crush a slice gently with the knife to release juices.
Brew Tea & Simmer
- 3
Combine water, spices, ginger and sugar
In a small saucepan, add 1 cup (240 ml) of water, the crushed toasted spice mix, sliced ginger, and the granulated sugar (and brown sugar if using). Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- 4
Simmer to infuse
Once simmering, reduce heat to low and simmer gently, uncovered, for 5 minutes to fully infuse the water with the spices and ginger. Watch so it does not boil vigorously.
- 5
Add tea
Remove the pan briefly from heat and add the black tea (2 tablespoons loose or 2 tea bags). Return to low heat and steep for 3 minutes for strong flavor (4 minutes for very strong). Do not boil after adding the tea to avoid bitterness.
- 6
Strain
Strain the spiced tea concentrate through a fine-mesh sieve into a heatproof measuring cup or bowl, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard solids (or reserve spices for another use). You should have about 1 cup of concentrated chai.
Finish with Milk
- 7
- 8
- 9
Froth (optional)
If you prefer a foamy latte, use a milk frother, French press (pump 10–15 times), or whisk vigorously to create foam. Spoon foam on top of the latte.
- 10
Add vanilla and garnish
Stir in 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract if using. Pour chai latte into two warmed cups. Sprinkle a light pinch of ground cinnamon on top as garnish.