Ingredients
Chai Latte Base
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup milk (or a 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
For the Whipped Cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 tsp of the spice mix (cinnamon, cloves, ginger, cardamom, nutmeg, black pepper blend)
- 1 tsp honey
Instructions
- Prepare the Spice Mix: In a small bowl, combine ground cinnamon, cloves, ginger, cardamom, nutmeg, and a pinch of black pepper. Reserve 1/4 teaspoon of this mixture to use later in the whipped cream.
- Heat Water and Add Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, mix together the water, black tea leaves (or tea bag), brown sugar, and the remaining spice mix. Gently heat over medium flame, stirring occasionally, until the mixture just begins to simmer.
- Brew the Chai Base: Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and stir in the milk. Allow the chai to steep for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors thoroughly.
- Strain and Serve: Use a fine mesh strainer to pour the chai into a mug, filtering out tea leaves and spice sediment. Keep the chai warm while preparing the whipped cream.
- Make the Whipped Cream: In a chilled bowl, whisk heavy cream with honey and the reserved 1/4 tsp spice mix until soft peaks form. Use a hand whisk or electric mixer for best results.
- Top and Garnish: Spoon or pipe the spiced whipped cream over the chai latte. Optionally, dust a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for a festive finish.
Notes
- Adjust brown sugar to your desired sweetness.
- For a vegan option, substitute dairy milk and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives like almond or oat cream.
- The spice mix can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container.
- Use freshly ground spices for maximum flavor.
- Serve immediately for the best warm and creamy experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian-inspired
