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Homemade Masala Chai Latte

A rich and aromatic Indian spiced tea blended with warm milk, sweetener, and a medley of traditional spices like cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and star anise. This cozy chai latte is comforting, deeply flavorful, and perfect for slow mornings or chilly evenings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 black tea bags (or 2 tsp loose black tea)
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 3 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
  • 2 whole cloves
  • 1 star anise (plus more for garnish)
  • 1/2 tsp ground ginger or 1 slice fresh ginger
  • 1/4 tsp black peppercorns
  • 1 cup whole milk (or plant-based milk)
  • 12 tsp maple syrup or sweetener of choice

Instructions

  1. In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, star anise, ginger, and peppercorns. Simmer for 5–7 minutes to infuse.
  2. Add black tea and continue simmering for 2–3 more minutes.
  3. Stir in milk and sweetener. Let it heat until just about to boil.
  4. Strain the chai into mugs, discarding the solids.
  5. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a whole star anise. Serve hot and enjoy.

Notes

  • Adjust spice levels to taste for a milder or bolder chai.
  • Use oat milk or almond milk for a vegan version.
  • Sweeten with honey, jaggery, or sugar as desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: masala chai, chai latte, Indian tea, spiced tea, cozy drink