Homemade Chai Tea Latte – Just Like Starbucks Chai Tea Latte (But Real Ingredients, Infused with Fresh Ginger and Much Cheaper!)

When it comes to cozy, soul-warming drinks, nothing tops a homemade chai tea latte. It’s one of my top 10 favorite foods (yes, foods—because this latte is a whole experience), and you better believe I’ve perfected it to rival Starbucks. Actually, it’s better. Cheaper, less artificial, and full of real, deep, spiced flavor.

The Non-Negotiable Ingredient: Fresh Ginger

Let’s get one thing straight—steeping fresh ginger is non-negotiable for this recipe. That zingy warmth? That gentle, throat-soothing, spicy bite? It all comes from fresh ginger, and you can’t replicate it with powder. Trust me on this one.

Whole Spices vs. Pantry Spices

In my ideal world (and kitchen), I would simmer whole cardamom pods, star anise, whole cloves, and cinnamon sticks for the richest, most authentic chai. But here’s the thing—I know most home kitchens aren’t stocked with whole spices. That’s why my recipe uses ground spices—simple, pantry-friendly ingredients you likely already have.

But if you’re a spice lover like me and want the full, authentic version with whole spices—let me know in the comments! I’ll happily share that version too.

Why My Chai Latte Recipe Is Perfected:

• Rich Flavor: The perfect blend of warm spices and creamy milk, just like Starbucks but without the fake syrups.
• Pantry Friendly: Uses ground spices you already have.
• Creamy Texture: Warm, frothed milk with a touch of vanilla for smoothness.
• Customizable: Adjust the sweetness to your liking.

Ready to make the best chai latte ever? Let’s do this.

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The Best Homemade Chai Tea Latte: Better Than Starbucks

Recipe by Ellen

Servings

1

servings

Prep timeminutes

Cooking timeminutes

Calories

275

kcal

Ingredients

• Steeped Tea Base:

• 2 bags black tea (Earl Grey, Black, or a blend)

• 1 inch fresh ginger, sliced or grated

• 3–4 whole black peppercorns (for subtle warmth)

• 1 cinnamon stick, optional

• 1 cup water

• Spiced Frothed Milk:

• 1 cup whole milk (or oat milk for a creamy, dairy-free version)

• ¼ tsp ground cinnamon, heaping

• ¼ tsp ground cardamom

• ⅛ tsp ground black pepper (for a subtle kick)

• Pinch of ground cloves (adds warmth without overpowering)

• 1 tbsp brown sugar

• ½–1 tbsp maple syrup (adjust based on sweetness preference)

• Pinch of salt (balances sweetness and sharpens flavors)

• ½ tsp pure vanilla extract (added after heating)

Directions

• Make the Spiced Tea Base
  In a small saucepan, add 1 cup water, ginger, black peppercorns, and cinnamon stick.
  Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes for stronger spice infusion. (Skip simmering if you prefer a milder flavor.)
  Add tea bags to the hot spiced water and steep covered: 2 minutes for black tea (prevents bitterness)
  3–4 minutes for Earl Grey (for richer bergamot notes)
  Remove tea bags and strain out the whole spices into your prepared cup. Set aside.
• While the Tea is steeping, make the Spiced Frothed Milk
  In a separate small saucepan, combine: Milk, Cinnamon, cardamom, ground black pepper, cloves, brown sugar, maple syrup, and pinch of salt.
  Warm over medium heat, stirring gently, until hot but not boiling (about 160°F).
  Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
  Froth the spiced milk using a handheld milk frother, handheld immersion blender or regular blender until creamy and foamy. If you don't have a blender a good whisk should do the job! Do so for only 20 seconds or so until frothy, as blending too long will make it cold!
• Assemble the Latte
  Gently pour the frothed spiced milk on top of your steeped tea.
  Optional: Dust with a sprinkle of cinnamon. Enjoy your café-style chai tea latte at home!

Notes

• Pro Tips:
  Spice Balance: Adjust cardamom and cloves to your taste—less for mild, more for bold.
  Salt Secret: The pinch of salt is key—it sharpens flavors and balances sweetness.
  Stronger Flavor: Simmer the whole spices longer before adding tea bags, you may need to top up the water to ensure you have the whole cup of liquid.
• Tastes Like:
  Smooth, cozy, and perfectly balanced—deeply spiced without being overpowering. Rich from brown sugar and maple with that creamy café-style foam.
• Ideally, instead of ground cloves, you would use 2-3 cloves and simmer them. However, the use of ground cloves is easier, faster and more convenient!