Chai Tea Latte Recipe

A chai tea latte recipe is a simple way to make a warm, spiced drink at home using black tea, milk, and comforting spices. If you’ve ever ordered a chai tea latte, Starbucks style, and wondered how to recreate it, you’re in the right place.

I still remember the first time I tried making chai at home. I burned the milk (rookie mistake), added way too much cardamom, and still… I loved it. Over time, I figured out what actually works, and honestly, this easy chai tea latte recipe now tastes better than most cafés I’ve tried.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A chai tea latte is made with black tea, milk, sweetener, and warming spices. These ingredients are flexible, which is part of the fun.

• 1 cup water
• 2 black tea bags (or loose tea for a chai tea latte recipe without tea bags)
• 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based for a chai tea latte recipe with milk)
• 1–2 tablespoons honey or sugar
• ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• A pinch of allspice
• Optional: ginger or cloves for a masala chai tea latte recipe

Not sure about spice amounts? Neither was I at first. Start small. You can always add more.

How to Make a Chai Tea Latte (Step by Step)

Brew the Chai Base
To make a chai tea latte from scratch, you start with strong tea.
Bring water to a boil, add tea bags and spices, then simmer for 3–5 minutes.

Add Milk and Sweetener
Once brewed, add milk and sweetener directly to the pot. Heat gently. Don’t boil. This step creates that creamy chai tea latte recipe texture.

Froth and Serve
Pour into a mug and froth if you like foam. That’s it. Simple, cozy, done.

For Iced Chai
To make an iced chai tea latte recipe, let the tea cool first, pour it over ice, then add cold milk. It’s refreshing and surprisingly addictive.

How to Serve It (My Favorite Ways)

A chai tea latte is best served hot in a wide mug or cold in a tall glass.
I usually sprinkle cinnamon on top or add vanilla for a vanilla chai tea latte recipe vibe.

If you want a café-style kick, add a shot of espresso. That’s called a dirty chai tea latte recipe, and yes, it’s amazing.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

You can store chai concentrate in the fridge for up to 3 days. This makes busy mornings easier.
I often prep a batch on Sunday, then reheat or pour over ice during the week.

Just stir before using; the spices like to settle.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chai Tea Latte

What is the main ingredient in a chai latte?
The main ingredient is black tea, combined with spices like cinnamon and cardamom, plus milk.

How do baristas make chai lattes?
Most cafés use a chai concentrate mixed with steamed milk. This is how Starbucks chai tea latte recipe versions stay consistent.

Does a chai tea latte have caffeine?
Yes. Since it’s made with black tea, chai tea latte caffeine levels are moderate, less than coffee.

How many calories are in a chai tea latte?
Chai tea latte calories vary, but a homemade version usually has fewer calories than store-bought ones.

Is chai tea latte healthy?
There are benefits. Chai tea latte benefits include antioxidants from tea and digestion-friendly spices—especially if you control the sugar.

Final Thoughts

A homemade chai tea latte recipe at home is easy, comforting, and customizable. Whether you love it hot, iced, spiced, or creamy, this recipe gives you control, and that’s something cafés can’t always offer.

I’m still tweaking mine (I’m not entirely sure there’s a “perfect” version), but that’s the beauty of chai. Make it yours. Try it once, and you’ll probably stop overpaying at coffee shops, trust me.