Jul 09 2026
RestaurantsThe MonicaChai Tea Latte Recipe

Chai Tea Latte Recipe

Inspired by The Monica
Time25m
Serves2

Make Chai Tea Latte Recipe in just 25m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Chai concentrate

Method

Chai concentrate

  1. 1

    Combine spices and water

    In a small saucepan combine 2 cups water, sliced ginger, 2 cinnamon sticks, 6 cardamom pods (lightly crushed with the flat of a knife), 6 whole cloves and 6 whole black peppercorns. Add 2 tablespoons brown sugar.

  2. 2

    Simmer to extract flavor

    Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a low simmer. Simmer uncovered for 8–10 minutes so the spices infuse the water and the liquid reduces slightly.

  3. 3

    Add tea and finish concentrate

    Add 2 black tea bags (or 2 tbsp loose black tea) to the simmering spiced water and simmer for an additional 2 minutes—avoid over-steeping to prevent bitterness. Remove from the heat, stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, then cover and let steep for 5 minutes off the heat.

  4. 4

    Strain the concentrate

    Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a heatproof container, pressing the solids lightly to extract liquid. Discard solids. You should have about 2 cups of chai concentrate. Keep warm while you prepare the milk.

Milk & assembly

  1. 5

    Heat and froth the milk

    Pour 2 cups milk into a small saucepan and heat over medium-low until steaming — small bubbles will form at the edges but do not let it boil (about 3–5 minutes). Froth the milk using a handheld milk frother, a whisk (vigorous 20–30 seconds), or a steam wand until foam forms and the milk is slightly thickened.

  2. 6

    Combine concentrate and milk

    For each serving, pour 1 cup hot chai concentrate into a mug, then add 1 cup steamed milk (1:1 ratio). For 2 servings split the concentrate and milk evenly between two mugs.

  3. 7

    Finish and garnish

    If desired, top each latte with 1 tablespoon whipped cream. Sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon over the top. Taste and adjust sweetness by stirring in more brown sugar or honey if needed. Serve immediately.

  4. 8

    Storage note

    Leftover chai concentrate can be refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently before mixing with milk.

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