Start your mornings or enjoy your afternoons with this easy Vanilla Chai Latte Recipe. Making your own homemade chai couldn't be easier, and this recipe is proof.
I call this my own little Starbucks copycat recipe because it really does taste like the real deal. You'll save so much money making your own at home rather than buying from the local coffee shop! It's the perfect drink with just the right amount of spices to be able to enjoy anytime of day.
Speaking of delicious drink recipes, be sure to check out my Chocolate Chips Hot Chocolate and Starbucks White Hot Chocolate. If you are looking for a coffee-based drink, try a Starbucks Caramel Brulee Latte Recipe.
Ingredients
- Boiling Water - Needed to steep the chai tea bags and create the tea base.
- Chai Tea Bags - Buy your favorite brand at the store. Chai tea already contains spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom, so you don't need to add them separately.
- Sugar - You can use regular sugar or brown sugar.
- Vanilla - Vanilla extract is my go-to in this recipe.
- Milk - Use the milk of your choice. I normally use whole milk, but almond milk or even coconut milk are both fine. Oat milk would work, too.
See quantities in the recipe card.
How to Make a Vanilla Chai Latte
Step One: Bring the water to a boil, remove it from the heat, and add the chai tea bags. Let the tea steep in the hot water according to the package directions or until it reaches your desired strength. Remove the tea bags, then add the sugar and stir until dissolved. Add the vanilla.
Step Two: Bring the milk to a gentle simmer in a saucepan or heat it in a microwave-safe mug.
Step Three: Combine the hot milk and the tea in a mug. Top with whipped cream, if desired.
Top Tip
For a stronger chai flavor, let the tea steep a little longer before adding the milk. I like to use whole milk because it makes the latte rich and creamy, but you can use whatever milk you have on hand.
Variations
- Add more spice - Adding a few cinnamon sticks is great for warmth and also works well as a stirrer.
- Add toppings - Whipped cream on top is delicious, and don't forget to add a sprinkle of ground cinnamon as well.
- Make it chilled - Even though this easy recipe is typically made warm, who says that you can't make this drink into an iced vanilla chai latte? Let the tea cool before combining it with cold milk and pouring it over ice cubes. Chilled tea lattes are delicious, too.
- Vanilla syrup - Substitute this Vanilla Bean Simple Syrup Recipe for the sugar for a boost of vanilla flavor. Or try it with honey, as we do in our Honey Latte Recipe.
In a fall mood? Try this Pumpkin Chai Latte Recipe!
Equipment
You'll need a small saucepan or kettle for heating the water (or a microwave), a mug for steeping the tea, and a spoon for stirring. You can heat the milk in a saucepan or microwave, whichever is easier.
Storage
This vanilla chai latte tastes best fresh, but you can store leftovers in a covered jar or airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring before serving, or enjoy the leftovers iced.
If you're making an iced chai latte, you can prepare the tea ahead of time and keep it refrigerated until you're ready to add the milk and ice.
Common Questions
Can I make this sweeter?
You can. Add a little bit of honey or maple syrup to the tea mixture, and stir. This is a great way to add natural sweetness, and both are great alternatives to use. Don't forget that adding a little dash of cinnamon is also a good way to enhance the flavors.
Is a chai latte healthier than coffee?
It depends on how you make it. Chai tea generally has less caffeine than brewed coffee, but the sugar and milk you add make a difference in the calories and sweetness. Making it yourself lets you control how much sugar goes into your drink, which is one of the reasons I like making it at home.
📖 Recipe
Vanilla Chai Latte Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz boiling water
- 2 chai tea bags
- 2 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 8 oz whole milk
Instructions
- Combine the water and tea bags. Let steep for 5 minutes. Add the sugar and stir until it dissolves. Add the vanilla.
- Meanwhile, bring the milk to a gentle simmer. Alternatively, you can heat the milk in the microwave.
- Combine the tea mixture with the hot milk in a large mug.
Nutrition
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Lauran Hollowell says
So what can I substitute if I don't have vanilla?
Taryn Scarfone says
You can just omit it.