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Spiced Chai Latte is a delightful and aromatic beverage that combines the rich flavors of black tea with a blend of warm spices, creating a comforting drink perfect for any time of the day. This recipe is not only easy to make but also allows you to customize the spice levels and sweetness to your liking. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly day or simply enjoy a cozy moment, this homemade Spiced Chai Latte is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 2 black tea bags (or 2 tablespoons loose black tea)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4-5 whole cloves
- 4-5 whole cardamom pods, crushed
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, sliced
- 1-2 tablespoons sugar or honey (to taste)
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- Optional: whipped cream and ground cinnamon for topping
Instructions
- Boil the Water: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil over medium heat.
- Add the Spices: Once boiling, add the cinnamon stick, cloves, cardamom pods, and sliced ginger to the water. Let the mixture simmer for about 5-10 minutes to allow the spices to infuse.
- Steep the Tea: Add the black tea bags (or loose tea) to the saucepan and let steep for another 5 minutes. Adjust the steeping time based on your preference for tea strength.
- Sweeten the Mixture: Stir in the sugar or honey, adjusting to taste. Make sure it dissolves completely in the hot liquid.
- Add the Milk: Pour in the milk and heat the mixture until it’s steaming but not boiling. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
- Strain and Serve: Using a fine mesh strainer, strain the chai latte into mugs, discarding the solid spices and tea leaves. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Spiced Chai Latte dairy-free?
Yes! You can easily substitute dairy milk with any non-dairy milk such as almond, oat, or soy milk to make a delicious vegan version of Spiced Chai Latte.
How can I adjust the spice level?
Feel free to increase or decrease the amount of spices based on your taste preferences. Adding more ginger or cinnamon can enhance the spiciness, while reducing the cloves and cardamom will make it milder.
Can I make a larger batch of Spiced Chai Latte?
Absolutely! Simply multiply the ingredient quantities by the number of servings you want. Just ensure that you have a large enough pot to accommodate the increased volume.
What type of tea is best for Chai Latte?
Black tea is traditionally used for making chai lattes, but you can experiment with other types of tea like green tea or rooibos for different flavors.
Can I prepare the chai concentrate in advance?
Yes! You can make a larger batch of the chai concentrate and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just heat it up and add milk when you’re ready to enjoy a cup.
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