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Vanilla Chai Latte

Hunar Baig
A Vanilla Chai Latte is the perfect combination of warm spices, creamy sweetness, and a touch of vanilla that makes every sip feel like a cosy hug in a cup. And the best part? You can make it at home in just a few simple steps!
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Breakfast, Coffee, Tea
Servings 4 - 6 servings

Equipment

  • Saucepan

Ingredients
  

  • 3 black tea bags
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 2 whole cloves
  • 4 whole black peppercorns
  • 1 star anise
  • 4 whole green cardamom
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 100 g light brown sugar (1/2 cup)
  • 1 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tsp vanilla bean paste or extract

Instructions
 

Chai Concentrate

  • In a medium saucepan, combine the tea bags, whole spices, sugar, and water. Stir well.
  • Place the saucepan over high heat and bring the mixture to a vigorous boil. Keep an eye on it, as it can foam up quickly. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer.
  • Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes, letting the spices fully infuse the liquid. The longer it simmers, the more intense the spice flavour will be. Stir occasionally.
  • After simmering, remove the saucepan from the heat. Let it cool slightly for a couple of minutes, then carefully strain the chai concentrate to remove the tea bags and spices.
  • Stir in vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract to the strained chai concentrate. Mix well to ensure the vanilla flavour is evenly distributed throughout the concentrate.
  • Pour the chai concentrate into a clean jar or bottle. Let it cool to room temperature before sealing the container. Store it in the refrigerator for about 2 weeks. You can also pour it into an ice tray to make chai ice cubes.

Vanilla Chai Latte

  • For a Hot Vanilla Chai Latte:
    Pour 1/4 cup of chai concentrate into your mug. Heat 1 cup of milk (or your preferred non-dairy milk) on the stove or in the microwave until warm and frothy. Pour the steamed milk over the chai concentrate and stir to combine. Optional: Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavour.
  • For an Iced Vanilla Chai Latte:
    Fill a glass with ice. Pour 1/4 cup of chilled chai concentrate over the ice and top with cold milk (about 3/4 cup, or to taste). Stir well and enjoy a refreshing, chilled latte.

Notes

 
  • Experiment with Milk: The type of milk you use can drastically change the flavour and texture of your latte. For a creamier result, use whole milk or oat milk. If you prefer a lighter drink, opt for almond milk or soy milk.
  • Go "Dirty": Add a shot of espresso to your vanilla chai latte to make it a dirty chai—a great option if you want a stronger caffeine boost while enjoying the spiced chai flavours.
  • Customise the Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sugar in the concentrate to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet drink, reduce the sugar.
Keyword Chai Concentrate, Chai Latte, Chai Latte Recipe, Vanilla Chai Latte