Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
spiced vanilla chai recipe

Spiced Vanilla Chai

A warming and aromatic homemade chai tea blend featuring traditional spices, fresh ginger, and vanilla. This authentic spiced vanilla chai creates a rich, creamy beverage that rivals any coffee shop version at a fraction of the cost.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 2 per serving 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups filtered water
  • 2 black tea bags (Assam/Darjeeling)
  • 1 inch fresh ginger, sliced
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 12 cinnamon sticks
  • 4 cardamom pods, crushed
  • 1 cup whole milk or alternatives (oat, almond, or coconut work)
  • 2 tbsp honey or sugar (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Prep: Boil water, crush cardamom pods, slice ginger – prepare all ingredients (2-3 minutes)
  2. Infuse: Add spices to boiling water, simmer gently for 5 minutes to extract spice oils
  3. Steep: Add tea bags, reduce heat, steep covered for 5 minutes, avoid over-steeping
  4. Finish: Remove bags, add vanilla and sweetener, stir in milk and heat through gently (2-3 minutes)

Notes

  • Crush cardamom pods with flat knife blade to release aromatic oils effectively
  • Use whole milk for richness or coconut milk for dairy-free creaminess
  • Adjust spice quantities to taste – start mild and increase gradually
  • For extra froth, whisk vigorously for 30 seconds before serving to create café-quality texture
  • Author: Jennie Graham
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Beverages
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 120 calories
  • Sugar: 14g
  • Sodium: 65mg
  • Fat: 4g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 12mg

Keywords: spiced vanilla chai, homemade chai, chai tea recipe, spiced tea, vanilla chai latte, traditional chai