Chai Tea

This homemade Chai Tea is a warm, spiced, and creamy drink inspired by authentic Indian chai. Made with bold black tea, a blend of whole spices, and sweetened milk, it’s a rich and comforting beverage perfect for cozy mornings, relaxing afternoons, or serving to guests. This version comes together in under 10 minutes and delivers bold flavor with every sip.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings the true essence of traditional Indian chai into your kitchen. The combination of cardamom, cinnamon, and star anise infuses the tea with complex spice notes, while the black tea provides strength and balance. The use of half & half (or whole milk) creates a luxuriously creamy texture. It’s incredibly simple to make, easy to customize, and even better than what you’ll get at a coffee shop.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• water

• whole star anise

• cinnamon stick

• green cardamom pods (cracked)

• black tea bags or loose black tea

• half & half (or whole milk)

• granulated sugar

Directions

1. Prepare the spices:
   Lightly press the cardamom pods with the back of a spoon to crack them open and release their flavor.

2. Boil the tea:
   In a saucepan, combine the water, star anise, cinnamon stick, cardamom, and black tea. Bring to a boil.

3. Simmer:
   Let the mixture boil for 8–10 minutes, until the liquid reduces by about half and turns a deep amber color.

4. Strain and sweeten:
   Strain the tea into another pot or heat-safe container. Stir in the sugar while the tea is hot until fully dissolved.

5. Add the milk:
   Pour in the half & half (or whole milk) and stir. Heat gently if needed to bring it back to serving temperature.

6. Serve:
   Pour into cups and optionally place a used cardamom pod at the bottom of each cup for a traditional touch.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4 (8 oz. each) or 12+ small Indian-style servings

• Prep time: 1 minute

• Cook time: 8 minutes

• Total time: 9 minutes

Variations

• Dairy-free version: Use oat milk, almond milk, or coconut milk instead of half & half.

• Stronger spice: Add cloves, ginger slices, or black peppercorns for a more robust chai.

• Sweeter: Increase sugar to ⅓ cup for a café-style sweet chai.

• Vanilla chai: Add a dash of vanilla extract for a smooth, sweet twist.

• Iced chai: Chill and pour over ice for a refreshing summer version.

Storage/Reheating

• To store: Refrigerate leftover chai in an airtight container for up to 10 days. Keep the spices in the tea to continue deepening the flavor.

• To reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave until hot. Stir well before serving.

• To serve cold: Pour over ice and enjoy as an iced chai latte.

FAQs

What kind of tea is best for chai?

Black tea like Assam or Darjeeling is traditional, but any strong black tea will work. Avoid flavored teas.

Can I use ground spices?

Whole spices are preferred for a cleaner, less gritty flavor, but you can use ground in a pinch—just strain carefully.

How do I crack cardamom pods?

Use the back of a spoon or a rolling pin to gently press until the pod splits open.

Can I make this caffeine-free?

Yes, use rooibos tea or a decaf black tea alternative for a caffeine-free version.

What is the difference between chai and chai latte?

“Chai” means tea in Hindi. A “chai latte” usually refers to a milk-heavy version often served at cafés. This recipe is closer to authentic Indian chai.

Can I use honey instead of sugar?

Yes, honey or maple syrup can be used. Stir in after boiling to preserve their flavor.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just maintain the same spice and tea ratios, and simmer for a few extra minutes.

Why boil the tea for so long?

Boiling helps the spices infuse deeply and strengthens the tea flavor. Reducing the water also concentrates the taste.

Is half & half too rich?

Not at all. It gives a creamy texture similar to traditional Indian chai made with full-fat milk. Use whole milk for a lighter version.

Should I leave spices in when storing?

Yes, the longer the spices stay in the chai, the more flavor they’ll release. Just strain before serving.

Conclusion

This Best Chai Tea recipe brings bold, authentic flavor in every cup—rich, spiced, sweet, and soothing. Whether served hot or iced, it’s a comforting drink that’s perfect for any time of day. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a homemade ritual you’ll look forward to again and again.