How to make a chai latte

The best chai latte isn't found in any cafe. It's the chai latte that you've lovingly prepared in the comfort of your kitchen, with just the right balance of sweetness, spice, and warmth. Read on to learn what chai is and all the different ways it can brighten up your day.


What is a chai latte?

A chai latte is a mixture of black tea and spices, which can be purchase as a Chai blend or mixed yourself, with steamed milk and layer of foam on top. There’s also the option of adding a sweetener, typically honey. ​It’s similar to a matcha latte or caffe latte – where you have a strong concentrate (like espresso) and add steamed milk to taste.


How is a chai latte different to masala chai?

Let us explain – a chai latte should really be called a masala chai latte. The word masala comes from the Hindi language and translates in English to spice and chai translates to tea. Latte is taken from Italian, meaning milk. So while the correct name is masala chai latte, it is often shortened to simply chia latte. When someone says masala chai, they might also be referring to the stovetop method of making chai.

Some cafes don't brew the tea themselves; they make them by adding powdered tea or syrup to steamed milk. There's nothing wrong with this method. But if you do take the time to make a loose leaf chai latte at home, you'll end up with a beautiful drink and a house filled with its delightful spicy aroma. 


Serves 1 person
Ingredients
  • 2 teaspoons T2 Chai
  • 150 ml milk
  • 100 ml boiling water
  • Sweetener, if using
  • 2 teaspoons T2 Chai
  • 100 ml cold water
  • 100 ml milk
  • Ice cubes
  • Sweetener, if using

Tools
  • Cup or mug
  • Infuser
  • Glass or mason jar
  • Infuser
  • Shaker or spoon for mixing

Brew tip. Add honey or sugar to taste. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, try maple syrup or condensed milk for a caramel flavour.

Method

  • 1

    Find a blend of loose leaf chai you love.

  • 2

    Make a chai concentrate by steeping in boiling water for 3–5 minutes.

  • 3

    Heat and froth your milk.

  • 4

    Add hot milk to tea and stir in sweetener.

  • 1

    Steep chai in a small amount of boiling water for 3–5 minutes.

  • 2

    Let it cool slightly, then pour over ice.

  • 3

    Add cold milk and sweetener, stir well.

  • 4

    Optional: Shake for a frothy finish or top with a dash of cinnamon.