This warm and creamy vanilla chai latte combines the bold spices of chai tea with the smooth sweetness of vanilla and the comforting richness of steamed milk. It’s a perfect homemade version of your favorite café drink, made in just minutes using simple ingredients. Whether you’re cozying up on a cold day or looking for a relaxing evening beverage, this latte is a delicious and aromatic treat that’s easy to customize and enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A soothing blend of tea, spices, and vanilla perfect for any time of day
Ready in under 10 minutes with minimal effort
Customizable with your favorite milk or sweetener
No special equipment needed — just a saucepan and a mug
Tastes like your favorite coffee shop drink but made at home for a fraction of the cost
Can be made hot or iced depending on your mood
Kid-friendly, caffeine-adjustable, and easy to double for guests
Ideal for fall and winter but enjoyable year-round
Fragrant and flavorful, perfect for a cozy moment
Easy to make in big batches for gatherings or meal prep

Ingredients

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

2 chai tea bags (black tea blended with warming spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger)
1 cup boiling water
1 tablespoon granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup milk (whole milk recommended for creaminess, or use any plant-based milk such as oat, almond, or soy)

Directions

Bring 1 cup of water to a boil in a small saucepan or kettle.
Add the chai tea bags to the boiling water and steep for 5 minutes to extract the bold flavors of the tea and spices.
Remove the tea bags, squeezing out any excess liquid into the pot for maximum flavor.
Stir in 1 tablespoon of sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until fully dissolved.
In a separate small saucepan, heat 1 cup of milk over medium heat until hot but not boiling. You can also heat the milk in a microwave-safe cup for 1 to 1½ minutes.
Optional: Froth the milk using a milk frother or by shaking it in a sealed jar and then microwaving for 30 seconds to create foam.
Pour the chai mixture into a mug, then add the hot milk. Stir gently to combine.
Optionally top with whipped cream, cinnamon, or nutmeg for garnish.
Serve hot and enjoy immediately.

Servings and timing

Yields: 2 servings
Prep time: 3 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Total time: 8 minutes

Variations

Iced Vanilla Chai Latte: Let the steeped chai tea cool, then pour it over ice with cold milk instead of heating it.
Extra Spicy Version: Add a cinnamon stick, a few slices of fresh ginger, or a pinch of ground cardamom and black pepper while steeping the tea.
Sweeter Option: Replace sugar with honey, maple syrup, or vanilla syrup for a different twist.
Dairy-Free: Use oat milk for a creamy texture, or almond, soy, or coconut milk for other dairy-free alternatives.
Caffeine-Free: Use a decaffeinated chai tea blend if you’re avoiding caffeine.
Creamy Indulgent Version: Use half milk and half heavy cream for a richer, dessert-like drink.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover chai latte (without foam or whipped cream) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in 30-second intervals until hot.
If using plant-based milk, some separation may occur after storage — just stir or whisk before reheating.
Not recommended for freezing.

FAQs

What type of chai tea should I use?

Any store-bought chai tea bags will work, whether classic spiced chai or decaf. Choose one with black tea and warming spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger.

Can I adjust the sweetness?

Yes, you can increase or decrease the sugar, or use natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or stevia to suit your preference.

Can I use vanilla-flavored milk instead of adding vanilla extract?

Yes, but you may want to reduce the amount of added sugar since many flavored milks are already sweetened.

Is it okay to use loose-leaf chai tea?

Absolutely. Use about 2 teaspoons of loose-leaf chai for every tea bag, and steep using a tea infuser or strain after steeping.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe doubles or triples easily. Just scale up the ingredients and steep in a larger pot.

Will non-dairy milk froth as well as dairy milk?

Some non-dairy milks (like oat or barista blends) froth well, while others may not. Shake or froth as needed for a foamy top.

How can I make this more indulgent?

Use a mix of milk and cream or add a dollop of whipped cream on top with a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Is this drink suitable for kids?

Yes, if you use decaf chai tea and adjust the sweetness to taste, it can be a cozy drink for kids too.

Can I make a large batch and store it?

You can make the chai base (tea, sugar, and vanilla) in advance and refrigerate it. Add freshly heated milk when ready to serve.

What if I don’t have vanilla extract?

You can skip it, though it adds a key flavor. A splash of vanilla-flavored milk or syrup can substitute in a pinch.

Conclusion

This vanilla chai latte is a simple yet indulgent drink that brings the cozy comfort of spiced tea and creamy milk right to your kitchen. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy a café-style beverage anytime. Whether you make it hot or iced, with dairy or non-dairy milk, it’s a satisfying treat that’s easy to adapt and perfect to share.