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–+ servings
Chai tea latte bought in a US restaurant in a white cup.
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5 from 1 vote

One of Popular Ways to Use Chai: A Chai Latte

Warm up in front of the fireplace this winter with a boozy and comforting chai latte, prepared with fresh spices and black tea.
Course: cocktail, Drinks, Tea
Cuisine: American, Indian
Servings: 2
Author: Dorothy Stainbrook

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 2 cups water
  • 2-3 tsp loose black tea see notes
  • 2 green cardamom pods
  • 1 inch ginger fresh, grated
  • 2 cloves
  • ½ cinnamon stick
  • 5 black peppercorns
  • 2 tsp sugar
  • 1 cup whole milk or plant-based milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract optional
  • 3 oz dark rum see notes
  • whipped cream to serve

Instructions

  • Heat the water in the saucepan. While you wait, crush the spices (except the pre-grated ginger) using your mortar and pestle or spice grinder. They don't have to be powdered, just crushed to release their flavors.
    2 cups water
  • Add all the crushed spices and sugar to the water. Boil on medium for three minutes and add the tea baggies, then let boil for two more minutes.
    2-3 tsp loose black tea, 2 green cardamom pods, 1 inch ginger, 2 cloves, 1/2 cinnamon stick, 5 black peppercorns, 2 tsp sugar
  • Add milk and vanilla extract (optional) to the saucepan. Let the contents come up to a boil again, then turn off the heat. Cover with a lid and let sit for 2-3 minutes.
    1 cup whole milk, 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Strain the masala chai into the mugs. Add the rum and top with whipped cream. Optionally, sprinkle some cinnamon on top.

Notes

  1. Use the spices you like. I included basic masala chai spices here, but there are more options: allspice, star anise, fennel seeds, nutmeg...
  2. If you're not into rum, you can also prepare this spiked chai drink with bourbon or whiskey.
  3. There are different types of black tea. Try a bunch to see which is your favorite! 
  4. If you prefer, use frothed milk instead of whipped cream.