There’s just something magical about that first sip of a warm, spiced drink on a crisp fall morning. This Easy Apple Cider Chai Tea Latte is the perfect cozy cup — smooth chai tea, sweet apple cider, and a hint of creamy milk all swirled together. It’s like a hug in a mug and a homemade twist on the Starbucks favorite that you can enjoy anytime without leaving the house.
Recipe Info
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hot Tea Drinks Recipes | 5 minutes | 10 minutes | 2 servings | ~120 kcal |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 chai tea bags (or 2 tablespoons loose-leaf chai)
- 2 cups apple cider (fresh or store-bought)
- 1 cup milk (dairy, oat, almond, or your favorite alternative)
- 1–2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
- Extra cinnamon or apple slices for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brew the chai:
In a small saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a gentle simmer. Add the chai tea bags and steep for 5 minutes to extract all those cozy spices. - Heat the cider and milk:
In another pot, warm the apple cider and milk together over medium heat until hot but not boiling. Stir occasionally to keep it creamy. - Combine and sweeten:
Remove the tea bags from the brewed chai and pour the tea into the warm apple cider mixture. Stir in honey or maple syrup and a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra warmth. - Serve and enjoy:
Pour the latte into your favorite mug. Top with whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon or garnish with an apple slice for a café-style finish.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Don’t boil the milk — it can curdle or scorch; keep it gently heated.
- Make it ahead: Brew a larger batch of chai and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, then mix with fresh warm cider when ready.
- Adjust the spice: Love it spicier? Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger. Prefer milder? Use one tea bag instead of two.
Recipe Variations
- Iced Apple Cider Chai: Let the mixture cool, pour over ice, and top with cold foam for a refreshing twist.
- Vanilla Twist: Add ½ teaspoon of pure vanilla extract for a sweet, aromatic note.
- Dairy-Free: Swap regular milk for oat or almond milk for a plant-based version that’s just as creamy.
Serving Suggestions
This latte pairs beautifully with a buttery scone, a slice of pumpkin bread, or a warm cinnamon roll. It’s perfect for a cozy breakfast, an afternoon pick-me-up, or sipping by the fire while reading your favorite book.
Conclusion
This Apple Cider Chai Tea Latte is the ultimate fall comfort drink — warm, spiced, and ready in minutes. Make a mug for yourself, or double the recipe to share with friends or family for a cozy afternoon together.