Craft your own Homemade Spiced Chai Latte Mix and let the comforting aroma of warm cinnamon, fragrant cardamom, and zesty ginger fill your kitchen. This mix is your ticket to a warm, soothing escape, bringing comfort with every sip.
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I love creating cozy traditions in the kitchen, and this homemade spiced chai latte mix is one of my favorites. We’ve blended real spices like cardamom pods, Ceylon cinnamon, and fresh nutmeg with black tea leaves (or tea black tea bags) to bring the inviting warmth of a coffee shop right into your own home.
This mix makes the best chai latte, whether served as a hot chai latte with creamy milk or an iced chai latte over ice cubes for a refreshing treat. You can even turn it into a dirty chai latte with a shot of espresso or leave out the tea for a caffeine-free version. We love storing the Masala Chai mix in mason jars with a sprinkle of whole spices for thoughtful holiday gifts. This recipe has the perfect balance of sweetness and spice, making it a family favorite season after season. Each sip is a harmony of bold spices and creamy milk, wrapping you in the kind of warmth that feels like home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Real Tea Flavor: Made with loose-leaf tea or tea bags, this mix provides the rich, earthy base of traditional chai with the flexibility to adjust the amount of spice for your perfect brew.
- Customizable Options: Adjust the sweetness with your sweetener of choice, experiment with green tea or English breakfast, and try dairy or non-dairy milk like almond milk or coconut milk for a unique spin.
- Cost-Effective: Save money by skipping expensive chai concentrate and pre-made powders from grocery stores. This mix delivers multiple servings for a fraction of the cost.
- Perfect for Gifting: Layer the mix in mason jars with decorative whole spices like *star anise(optional) or black peppercorns, and pair it with instructions for a personalized gift.
Ingredients
- Loose Black Tea Leaves or crushed leaf tea bags
- Powdered Milk (or coconut milk powder for dairy-free)
- Ceylon Cinnamon Ground or Sticks, cardamom pods, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and black peppercorns
- Granulated Sugar or your preferred sweetener of choice
Find the full list of ingredients and exact measurements in the printable recipe card below.
Creative Twists and Flavor Variations
These variations make it easy to adapt the recipe to different tastes and occasions!
- Chai-Cocoa Mix: Add unsweetened cocoa powder for a luxurious, chocolatey chai.
- Pumpkin Spice Chai Latte: Mix in pumpkin spice for a fall-inspired latte.
- Vanilla Chai: Add vanilla powder or vanilla beans for a café-style twist.
- Citrus Chai Mix: stir in finely ground dried orange zest for a refreshing, zesty twist that complements the spices.
You can find the full list of chai latte recipe variations, along with their exact measurements, on the printable recipe card below.
Please let us know if you tried any of these homemade chai latte recipes and which ones you loved the most in the comments below.
What is a Masala Chai Latte?
A Masala Chai Latte is a creamy and spiced beverage that combines the bold flavors of traditional masala chai with the frothy richness of a latte.
- Chai means “tea” in Hindi and refers to black tea brewed with water, milk, and spices. This comforting drink is a staple in Indian households and is enjoyed daily.
- Latte is an Italian word meaning “milk.” In the coffee and tea world, it refers to a drink made with steamed milk and often topped with froth, giving it a velvety texture.
- Masala translates to “spice mix” in Hindi. The spice blend for masala chai typically includes cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and black pepper, creating its signature warmth and complexity.
Masala chai originated in India, where it became a cultural staple and symbol of hospitality. Over time, it evolved into variations like the Masala Chai Latte, blending traditional Indian flavors with Western latte techniques for a globally loved beverage.
Tools You May Need
- Mixing Bowls: Essential for blending ingredients evenly.
- Measuring Spoons: Accuracy is key for the perfect spice blend.
- Mason Jar: Ideal for storing your mix and maintaining freshness.
- Milk Frother: This is used to create a creamy latte experience.
- Blender: Optional to blend your dry mix into a fine powder base for easier mixing and making a smooth latte.
How to Prepare the Chai Mix
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients: powdered milk, powdered creamer, sugar, loose black tea leaves, and the full array of spices (including the lightly crushed cardamom pods
In a large mixing bowl, add the powdered milk, powdered creamer, and sugar. Stir these dry ingredients together to break up any clumps and ensure an even base for your mix.
Next, add the loose black tea leaves and the spices: ground cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, black pepper, and allspice, along with a pinch or two of salt.
Stir thoroughly, taking your time to evenly distribute the tea leaves and spices throughout the mix. This ensures every scoop of the chai mix is perfectly balanced in flavor.
Step 2: Customize with Flavor Variations
If experimenting with other variations, like adding vanilla powder or vanilla bean seeds, cocoa powder, pumpkin spice seasoning, finely ground dried orange zest, or increasing the spice level, incorporate those ingredients now to achieve an evenly blended mix.
Step 3: Blend for a Finer Texture (Optional)
For a smoother, café-quality mix, transfer the combined ingredients into a high-speed blender or food processor. Pulse the mixture several times until it reaches a fine, powder-like consistency. This step ensures the mix dissolves more easily in liquids, creating a luxurious and velvety texture in your chai latte.
How to Make a Cup of Homemade Spiced Chai Latte
Step 1: Heat Your Liquid
Start by heating 1 cup of milk, water, or a mix of both in a small saucepan over medium heat. Watch as the liquid begins to steam. Be sure not to let it boil—gentle steam is the key to preserving the creamy texture and ensuring your chai latte has a smooth, velvety base.
Step 2: Add the Chai Mix
Once the liquid is hot, stir in 2–3 tablespoons of the chai mix. Adjust the amount depending on how bold or mild you like your chai. As the mix blends into the liquid, you’ll see the spices swirling together with the tea, creating the beginnings of your perfect chai latte.
Step 3: Simmer and Infuse
Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, giving the spices time to infuse fully into the liquid. This is where the magic happens—cinnamon, ginger, clove, nutmeg, allspice, black pepper, and cardamom infuse, making your drink fragrant and flavorful.
Step 4: Strain (Optional) But Highly Recommended
Even with blending, you’ll still need to strain the mixture after heating it in your choice of liquid. Since this recipe uses whole spices—not artificial or pre-processed ingredients—small bits of spices may settle at the bottom of your mug. Pour the latte through a fine tea strainer directly into your favorite mug for a perfectly smooth and flavorful drink. PS: you still may have a little bit of spices floating around but the taste will be worth it.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Pour the rich, spiced chai latte into your mug, taking in the delightful aroma. For an extra-special touch, top it with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon. Sit back, take a sip, and let the cozy warmth of your homemade chai latte wrap around you like a soft blanket.
How to Make an Iced Chai Latte
- Combine 2–3 tablespoons of chai latte mix with 1/2 cup of hot water in a small saucepan. Stir and let simmer for 1–2 minutes to infuse the spices.
- Strain the mixture into a heat-safe glass or jar and let it cool to room temperature.
- Fill a glass with ice cubes and pour in the cooled chai concentrate.
- Add 1/2 cup of cold milk (or milk of choice) and stir well. Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon or cardamom for a refreshing, spiced treat.
Whether you’re curling up with a steaming mug on a chilly evening or savoring a refreshing iced latte on a sunny afternoon, this chai latte mix transforms into the perfect drink to match your mood. Warm, spiced comfort or cool, creamy indulgence—your cravings, your way!
Tips for Best Results
- Blend for Smoothness: Use a high-speed blender or food processor to create a fine, powder-like consistency. This ensures the mix dissolves easily and gives you a velvety, café-quality chai latte.
- Infuse for Maximum Flavor: When preparing your latte, let the mix simmer in hot liquid for 1–2 minutes. This step allows the spices to fully release their aroma and flavor, resulting in a rich and satisfying drink.
- Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices like cardamom, nutmeg, and Ceylon cinnamon provide the most vibrant and aromatic chai mix. Whole spices crushed or grated just before mixing will elevate the flavor.
- Customize Your Milk Base: Try different types of milk to suit your taste. Whole milk adds creaminess, while oat milk, almond milk, or coconut milk provide excellent non-dairy alternatives with unique flavors.
Cozy Pairings for This Recipe
Pair your warm and spiced chai latte with these delightful dishes and treats for the ultimate cozy experience. These complementary options are perfect for indulging in a comforting winter morning routine:
- Sourdough Ladyfingers – Light and delicate, these pair beautifully with the bold chai spices. Dip them into your latte for a soft, melt-in-your-mouth treat.
- Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls – Soft, fluffy rolls swirled with cinnamon and brown sugar are a match made in heaven with the chai latte’s warm spices. Topped with cream cheese frosting for an extra indulgent pairing.
- Homemade Sourdough Pop Tarts – Made with sourdough discard or starter, these flaky pastries can be filled with your favorite jams, cinnamon sugar, or spiced apples. They’re a fun, nostalgic treat to enjoy with your latte.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this chai latte mix without powdered milk or creamer?
Yes! If you prefer or are making a vegan version, skip the powdered milk and creamer entirely. Instead, prepare the mix as directed and use your favorite plant-based or fresh milk for creaminess.
How do I ensure the mix dissolves fully in hot liquid?
Blend the dry mix in a high-speed blender or processor for a fine, easily dissolvable powder. Next, stir well when adding the mix to your preferred hot liquid (milk, water, or half and half), and simmer for 1–2 minutes to fully infuse the flavors.
How long will this chai latte mix stay fresh?
If stored in an airtight container or mason jar in a cool, dry place, the mix will remain fresh for up to 6 months. To maintain the best flavor, keep it away from moisture and direct sunlight.
More Cozy Recipes From The Cottage;
- Homemade Sourdough Pop Tarts
- Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls
- Sourdough Ladyfingers
- Sourdough Animal Crackers Recipe (discard or starter)
- Raspberry Sourdough Popovers (discard or starter)
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Homemade Spiced Chai Latte Mix: Easy Masala Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered milk 120 g
- ½ cup powdered creamer 60 g or coconut milk powder for a dairy-free option
- 1 cup granulated sugar 200 g or coconut sugar
- ½ cup loose black tea leaves 30 g or 6–8 crushed black tea bags
- 10 whole cardamom pods seeds removed and hulls discarded, or use 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cardamom
- 1 ½ tablespoons ground Ceylon cinnamon 10 g or crushed Ceylon cinnamon sticks using a mortar and pestle
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger 2 g
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves 1 g
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg 1 g
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper 0.5 g (optional, for extra spice)
- ½ teaspoon ground allspice 1 g
- 2 pinches of salt approx. 0.5 g
How To Make
To Make the Chai Mix:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the powdered milk, powdered creamer, and sugar. Stir until well mixed.
- Add the loose black tea leaves, cardamom seeds (remove them from the pods and discard the hulls), and all the spices—cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, black pepper, allspice, and salt. Stir thoroughly to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed. If using cinnamon sticks, crush them into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle. For the cardamom seeds, lightly grind them as well to release their fragrant aroma and essential oils, enhancing the flavor of the mix.
- If desired, pulse the mixture in a high-speed blender or food processor to create a finer powder.
If adding a variation, mix in the additional ingredients:
- For Chai-Cocoa Mix, add 1/4 c. of unsweetened cocoa powder for a rich, chocolatey flavor.
- For Citrus Chai Mix, stir in 1/4 c. of finely ground dried orange zest to brighten the spices with a citrus twist.
- For Vanilla Chai Mix, add 2 Tbsp. of vanilla powder or the seeds of three vanilla beans for a touch of creamy sweetness.
- For Pumpkin Spice Chai: Add 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice blend to the chai mix during preparation. To make the latte, prepare the chai as usual and top with a sprinkle of additional pumpkin spice for a warm, fall-inspired drink.
- Once all ingredients are combined, transfer the chai mix to an airtight container or mason jar. Store in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months. Label and Enjoy!
To Make a Cup of Chai Latte:
- Heat 1 cup of milk, water, or a mix of both in a small saucepan over medium heat until steaming.
- Stir in 2–3 tablespoons of the chai mix, adjusting the amount to taste.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the spices and tea to infuse fully.
- If you used loose tea leaves or cardamom pods, strain the mixture into a mug using a fine mesh strainer.
- Serve hot, and for an extra special touch, top with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a star anise pod.
For an iced version:
- Combine 2–3 tablespoons of chai latte mix with 1/2 cup of hot water in a small saucepan. Stir and let simmer for 1–2 minutes to infuse the spices. Strain the mixture into a heat-safe glass or jar and let it cool to room temperature. Fill a glass with ice cubes and pour in the cooled chai concentrate. Add 1/2 cup of cold milk (or milk of choice) and stir well. Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon or cardamom for a refreshing, spiced treat.
- Enjoy your Homemade Spiced Chai Masala Latte!
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