Authentic Homemade Chai Latte Recipe – A Cozy and Flavorful Indian Tea

Chai latte is a popular hot beverage that originated in India.

This sweet and aromatic drink is made with black tea, milk, and a blend of warming spices, including cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves.

So follow me to explore how to make an authentic homemade Indian chai latte— a rich, comforting infusion that’s perfect for a chilly day.

Homemade Indian Chai Latte – A Creamy and Spiced Delight

You’ve probably already heard about the amazing chai latte recipe.

Personally, it’s my absolute favorite—right after mint tea, which filled my childhood with warmth and nostalgia!

When I first arrived in England, I noticed how the British would drink their beloved “English tea” all day long. So, I gave it a try, and… nope! It wasn’t for me.

I just couldn’t get used to the idea of such a mild tea, diluted with so much water, only to add a few drops of milk. It just didn’t hit the spot.

Then, I discovered the magic of Indian chai latte, and chai massala. It happened at my children’s school, during a cultural exchange between parents where we shared recipes and traditional dishes.

That’s when I had my first sip of this rich, spiced, and utterly comforting drink.

Chai latte has a deep, complex flavor, thanks to its perfect blend of cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves.

While black tea is often described as slightly bitter or astringent, the warm spices in chai beautifully balance and enhance its taste.

The addition of milk makes it irresistibly creamy and velvety—perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or a weekend brunch indulgence.

Trust me, once you try it, you’ll never look at tea the same way again!

Ingredients for Homemade Indian Chai Latte

– Milk Base (Choose Your Favorite)

• 500 ml fresh milk – For a rich, creamy texture.
• Almond milk or any plant-based milk – A great dairy-free alternative with a subtle nutty flavor.

(Optional Toppings for Garnish)

• Ground cinnamon – Adds a warm, aromatic touch.
• Star anise – Enhances the visual appeal and deepens the flavor.

– Chai Concentrate (The Heart of the Recipe)

• 500 ml water – To infuse and extract the deep flavors from the tea and spices.
• 2 tbsp black tea leaves – Choose a strong variety like Assam or Darjeeling for a bold flavor.
• 3 tbsp brown sugar – Adds a subtle caramelized sweetness, balancing the spices.
• 1 cinnamon stick – Infuses warmth and sweetness with its woody, aromatic essence.
• 1 star anise – Brings a mild licorice-like flavor for depth and complexity.
• 10 cardamom pods – Crushed slightly to release their citrusy, floral aroma.
• 10 whole cloves – Introduces a bold, spicy-sweet kick.
• 2 tsp ground nutmeg – Enhances the warm, slightly sweet spice profile.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds a delicate, creamy sweetness to round out the flavors.
• ¼ tsp ground ginger – Offers a subtle heat and zesty kick.
• ¼ tsp whole black peppercorns – Provides a slight peppery heat, balancing the sweetness.

This carefully crafted blend of spices and tea creates a chai latte that’s not just a drink but an experience—bold, aromatic, and deeply comforting!

Step-by-Step to make a Flavorful Chai Latte

1. Prepare the Spices

• Lightly crush or roughly chop star anise, cloves, and cardamom pods to release their essential oils and maximize flavor.

2. Simmer the Chai Concentrate

• In a saucepan, combine all chai concentrate ingredients (except vanilla extract).
• Use high-quality water – bottled or filtered water is recommended for the best taste, as tap water can affect the tea’s flavor.
• Bring to a gentle simmer over low heat and let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the tea and spices to fully infuse.

3. Strain and Add Vanilla

• Strain out the tea leaves and spices, leaving a smooth, fragrant liquid.
• Stir in the vanilla extract for a warm, subtly sweet depth of flavor.

4. Heat the Milk

• In a separate saucepan, warm the milk over low heat until it’s hot but not boiling. This keeps it creamy and prevents a burnt taste.
• Remove from heat once it’s warmed through.

5. Assemble Your Chai Latte

• Pour the chai concentrate into a cup, filling it about halfway.
• Add the hot milk and stir gently to combine.
• For an extra indulgent touch, top with sweetened whipped cream (optional).

6. Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle with ground cinnamon for a warm, spiced aroma.
• Add a whole star anise for an elegant finishing touch.

Now, sit back, sip, and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of your homemade authentic chai latte!

Recipe Notes & Expert Tips for the Perfect Chai Latte

– Choosing the Best Ingredients

• Use high-quality black tea – Assam or Darjeeling works best for a strong and bold flavor.
• Opt for fresh whole spices – Grinding or crushing them just before brewing releases the most flavor.
• Filtered or bottled water is recommended – It enhances the tea’s purity and avoids any unwanted tap water taste.

– Enhancing Flavor & Customization

• Adjust the sweetness – Use honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for different flavor profiles.
• Customize the spice level – Add more ginger for heat or extra cinnamon for sweetness.
• Experiment with milk options – Oat, almond, or coconut milk add unique flavors and textures.

– Achieving the Perfect Texture

• Froth the milk for a café-style touch – Use a milk frother or whisk it vigorously for a light and airy texture.
• Don’t let the milk boil – Heating it gently prevents a burnt taste and keeps it creamy.

– Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Make the chai concentrate in advance – Store it in the fridge for up to 5 days and reheat when needed.
• Double or triple the recipe – Perfect for batch-making so you can enjoy chai lattes all week.
• Freeze chai concentrate into ice cubes – Just add hot milk for a quick and easy chai latte anytime.

– Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy with a biscuit or pastry – Chai latte pairs beautifully with spiced cookies, croissants, or scones.
• Turn it into an iced chai latte – Simply let the concentrate cool, pour over ice, and add cold milk.
• Try a dirty chai latte – Add a shot of espresso for an energizing twist.

Other recipes to try

• Mango Lassi
• Homemade Oat Milk
• Collagen and Chocolate Smoothie