Want to make a chai latte that’s perfectly spiced, rich in flavour and is the ultimate hug in a mug? We’ve got the ultimate chai latte recipe that won’t disappoint, as well as everything you need to know when crafting your aromatic cup of pure joy. Whether you’re a chai latte enthusiast or just want to see what all the fuss is about, this blog is for you. 

What is Chai?

Chai is the Hindu word for ‘tea’ but is often used within Western culture to describe the aromatic blend of chai masala, which is a black tea infused with a unique blend of spices, such as cinnamon, cardamom, star anise, ginger, cloves and black pepper. 

Originating from India, chai masala is sweetened with sugar and served with hot milk to create a milky tea that creates the perfect balance of sweetness, spiciness and warming aromas. Originating from the Indian Tea Association prompting a ‘tea break’ to workers to encourage the consumption of tea, the Association soon disapproved of ‘Masala Chai’ when street vendors starting supplementing the tea with spices and milk to save on costs. Despite the disapproval, this version of chai stayed and has become a staple for many Indian families, with homemade blends of chai being passed down through generations. Chai masala and now, chai lattes, are being enjoyed around the world. 

What is a Chai Latte?

A chai latte is a more modern, Western take on Indian chai or chai masala and creates a weaker and more creamy spiced chai drink. With a chai latte, hot steamed or frothed milk is mixed with brewed chai to create a comforting and warming drink, perfect for chilly days. 

Although some would assume a chai latte includes coffee, due to its name, it does not, and therefore makes a great alternative for those who aren’t keen on coffee or looking for something else to replace their morning coffee. 

Chai Latte Ingredients

There are a few vital ingredients to making a great chai latte that’s full of flavour. 

Black Tea 

A black tea like Assam or Darjeeling acts as the base of a traditional chai latte.  However, if you prefer a caffeine-free version, this can be left out at no detriment to the taste of the latte.

Spices

The spices are what really make a chai latte so special. You could make your own blend by adding cardamom, cinnamon, cloves and ginger, or buy a ready-made chai blend for a guaranteed perfectly balanced cup. 

Sweetener

A chai latte tends to be sweetened which you can achieve by adding sugar, honey, maple syrup or another type of sugar alternative. Some ready-made chai latte blends may already have sweetener added meaning you can skip this step! 

Milk

Finally, the part that puts the latte in the chai latte is the milk. Choose from dairy or dairy-free alternatives such as oat, soya or almond milk to create a truly creamy chai latte. 

Should I Buy a Chai Blend or Make My Own? 

It’s up to you whether you want to try making your own chai blend or buy a ready-made one. If you have the time it can be fun to try different spices to see what you like, or if you want a tried and tested version guaranteed to give a delicious chai latte then a ready-made blend can be a good idea, especially if you’re looking for a quick fix, it’s always nice to have one on hand. 

Hot Chai Latte Recipe 

It’s easy to make a chai latte yourself, whether you’re using dried spices or a powdered blend. 

1. If you’re using loose spices and black tea, you’ll want to brew them with water in a small saucepan for around 10 minutes allowing the flavours to extract. 
2. You’ll start to smell the strong aromas which is when you can add your sweetener of choice and let the mixture simmer for a few more minutes. 
3. Once ready, strain the mixture using a small sieve into a cup. 
4. If you’re using a ready-made chai latte powder, mix 1 ½ teaspoons with a bit of hot water. 
5. Heat up your milk of choice with a steamer or frothing machine to create a creamy, velvety texture. 
6. Pour the hot milk into the spiced chai to create your chai latte, ready to be enjoyed.

Customise Your Chai Latte

Iced Chai Latte

If you’re not in the mood for a hot drink, or if you’re looking for something more refreshing, why not try an iced chai latte? Simply swap the hot milk for cold and add in a few ice cubes. 

Dirty Chai Latte

A dirty chai latte combines one or two shots of espresso coffee with a chai latte. So if you’re looking for that caffeine hit but still want the warming spices of a chai latte, a dirty chai latte could be the one to try.

Do Chai Lattes Have Health Benefits? 

A lot of the spices used within chai lattes are thought to contain numerous health benefits due to their anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antioxidant properties. 

One of our Organic Chai Latte blends include Reishi, a medicinal mushroom and known adaptogen that is used to enhance the immune system, and aid stress relief and relaxation. 

In addition, we also have a vibrant Blue Chai Latte Blend with Spirulina, which contains phycocyanin, a compound high in antioxidants that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties as well as aid with immune regulation. 

Make a Chai Latte at Home with Sweet Revolution

It’s super easy to make a chai latte with our Sweet Revolution blends. Free-from gluten, nuts and soya, always organic and vegan, our barista chai blends and instant chai blends are an easy way to enjoy the comforting magic of a chai latte. Choose from our Organic Chai Latte with Reishi or our Blue Chai Latte with Spirulina which includes a unique blend of vanilla and orange. 

We love to have a chai latte at any time of day, which is why our blends contain no black tea and therefore are caffeine-free, making them a lovely bedtime treat.