There’s something undeniably cozy about wrapping your hands around a warm chai latte. The aromatic spices, gentle sweetness, and creamy texture create the kind of comfort that feels like home. Instead of relying on store-bought mixes, you can make your very own homemade chai concentrate with just a handful of pantry spices and black tea.
This easy recipe not only fills your kitchen with the warm scent of cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves but also gives you a flavorful base for lattes, iced chai, or even spiced mocktails. It’s simple, budget-friendly, and perfect for cozy mornings or slow afternoons.
Recipe Info
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drink / Beverage | 5 minutes | 30 minutes | 8 servings (1 cup per serving) | ~60 calories |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 cups water
- 10 black tea bags (or 3 tablespoons loose black tea)
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 8 whole cloves
- 6 whole cardamom pods, lightly crushed
- 6 black peppercorns
- 1–2 star anise pods
- 1–inch piece fresh ginger, sliced
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Simmer the spices
In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a gentle boil. Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, cardamom, peppercorns, star anise, and sliced ginger. Reduce heat and let simmer for 15–20 minutes to infuse the flavors. - Add the tea
Remove from heat and add the black tea bags (or loose tea in a strainer). Cover and let steep for 5–7 minutes, depending on how strong you like your tea. - Sweeten & flavor
Remove tea bags and stir in brown sugar until dissolved. Add vanilla extract for a warm finishing note. - Cool & store
Let the chai concentrate cool before transferring to a glass jar or bottle. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. - Make your latte
To serve, mix 1 part chai concentrate with 1 part milk (dairy or non-dairy). Heat for a cozy latte or pour over ice for a refreshing iced chai.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Spice Control – Want it spicier? Add more ginger or black pepper. Prefer it mild? Reduce cloves and pepper.
- Sweetness Swap – Use honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar instead of brown sugar.
- Storage Tip – Store in a sealed glass bottle or mason jar. Shake before each use.
Recipe Variations
- Iced Chai Latte – Pour over ice with cold milk for a refreshing summer drink.
- Dairy-Free Chai – Use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk for a vegan latte.
- Spiced Chai Mocktail – Mix concentrate with sparkling apple cider or a fruit spritzer for a festive non-alcoholic drink.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a warm slice of pumpkin bread, banana bread, or a buttery scone.
- Top your chai latte with frothed milk and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- Serve alongside breakfast favorites like oatmeal or pancakes for a cozy start to the day.
Conclusion
This easy homemade chai concentrate recipe is like a hug in a cup—spiced, sweet, and endlessly comforting. Once you try it, you’ll always have a batch ready for quiet mornings, cozy afternoons, or gatherings with loved ones.
Warm up your kitchen and your heart—try it for yourself today!