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.