Description
This Christmas Chai Latte is a warm and aromatic beverage perfect for the holiday season. Infused with a blend of traditional chai spices like cinnamon, cloves, ginger, cardamom, nutmeg, and a hint of black pepper, this latte is sweetened with brown sugar and topped with a festive spiced whipped cream. Whether made with dairy or a plant-based alternative, it’s a comforting and flavorful treat to cozy up with.
Ingredients
Scale
Chai Latte
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup milk or plant-based alternative
- 1 black tea bag or 1 tsp black tea leaves
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
- a pinch of ground black pepper
Whipped Cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 tsp of the same spice mix (cinnamon, cloves, ginger, cardamom, nutmeg, black pepper)
- 1 tsp honey
Instructions
- Prepare Spice Mix: In a small bowl, combine 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground cloves, 1/4 tsp ground ginger, 1/4 tsp ground cardamom, 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg, and a pinch of ground black pepper. This warming spice blend forms the base of your chai latte flavor.
- Brew Tea: Bring 1/2 cup water to a boil in a small saucepan. Add the black tea bag or tea leaves, then stir in the spice mix and 1 tablespoon brown sugar. Let steep for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse deeply.
- Add Milk: Pour in 1/2 cup of milk or your preferred plant-based alternative. Warm gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is hot but not boiling. This creates the creamy chai base.
- Prepare Spiced Whipped Cream: In a cold mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup heavy cream with 1/4 teaspoon of the prepared spice mix and 1 teaspoon honey. Whip with a mixer or whisk until soft peaks form, giving the whipped cream a fragrant and sweet spice note.
- Serve: Pour the hot chai latte into a mug, then top generously with the spiced whipped cream. Optionally, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for an extra festive touch. Enjoy your cozy Christmas chai latte!
Notes
- You can adjust the sweetness by altering the brown sugar amount or using your preferred sweetener.
- For a vegan option, use plant-based milk and substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for the whipped topping.
- The spice blend can be made in larger quantities and stored in an airtight container for future use.
- Use freshly ground spices for the most vibrant flavor.
- If using loose tea leaves, strain the mixture before adding milk for a smooth texture.
