Oat / Almond Chai Honey Latte Recipe

Brew espresso or coffee

Pull one fresh espresso shot (about 30–35 ml). If you don't have an espresso machine, brew 60 ml of very strong coffee (use double-strength grounds) and keep hot.

Combine 120 ml water, tea leaves (or teabag), cinnamon stick, crushed cardamom, cloves and sliced ginger in a small saucepan.

Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat and simmer for 6 minutes to extract spices and tea flavor. Taste: it should be pleasantly spicy and tea-forward but not bitter.

Add 2 tablespoons raw honey and 1 teaspoon almond extract to the pan, stirring until the honey dissolves. Simmer for 1 more minute to marry flavors. Remove from heat and let steep 5 minutes off heat for stronger infusion.

Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a heatproof container, pressing on solids to extract liquid. Discard solids. This yields about 120–140 ml chai-almond honey syrup (store any extra in refrigerator up to 1 week).

Pour 250 ml oat milk (plus optional 50 ml almond milk if using) into a small saucepan or milk pitcher. Add 1/4 tsp vanilla extract if desired.

Heat milk over medium-low heat until steaming and small bubbles form at the edges (do not boil), about 3–4 minutes. If you have a steam wand, steam to about 65–70°C (150–160°F) with microfoam.

Froth the heated milk using a handheld frother, French press, or steam wand until velvety and slightly aerated (aim for fine microfoam).

Spoon 30–45 ml (2–3 tablespoons) of the warm chai-almond honey syrup into a 12-oz (350 ml) serving cup. Adjust to taste: 2 tbsp for subtle sweetness, 3 tbsp for sweeter/chai-forward.

Pour the espresso (or strong coffee) over the syrup and give a gentle stir to combine.

Slowly pour the steamed oat milk into the cup, holding back foam with a spoon, then top with the remaining microfoam.

Dust the top with a pinch (about 1/4 tsp) ground cinnamon and sprinkle toasted slivered almonds (about 1 tsp) for texture.

Serve immediately. If you have leftover syrup, refrigerate and use within 7 days (shake before using).