If you’re a fan of iced chai but looking for something a little more exciting, the Iced Raspberry Vanilla Chai is the perfect summer upgrade. It blends the cozy, spiced depth of chai tea with bright, juicy raspberries and smooth vanilla, all topped with chilled milk for a beautiful and refreshing drink. It’s sweet, fragrant, creamy, and lightly caffeinated — ideal for warm afternoons, weekend brunches, or anytime you want a chilled drink that feels a bit special.
With a swirl of color and layers of flavor, this iced latte is easy to prepare but tastes like something you’d find at a boutique café. And the best part? It’s easily made vegan and can be adapted to your ideal level of sweetness or creaminess.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Combines the warmth of chai with the brightness of fresh fruit
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Beautiful swirls of pink and cream make it visually stunning
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Naturally sweetened with honey or your choice of sweetener
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Customizable with any type of milk or milk alternative
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A perfect summer drink that still gives you a chai fix
Ingredients
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2 cups brewed chai tea, chilled
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½ cup fresh raspberries or raspberry purée
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 to 2 teaspoons honey or sugar, to taste
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½ cup milk or dairy-free alternative
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Ice cubes
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Optional: fresh raspberries and cinnamon for garnish
Instructions
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Brew your chai tea using two tea bags or 2 teaspoons of loose-leaf chai. Steep in hot water for about 5 minutes, then cool completely. Refrigerate to chill.
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While the tea chills, blend the fresh raspberries with 1 teaspoon of honey or sugar until smooth. Strain through a fine mesh sieve if you prefer a seedless texture.
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In a tall glass, pour in the chilled chai tea. Add the vanilla extract and raspberry purée, then stir gently to combine.
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Add a handful of ice cubes to the glass.
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Slowly pour the milk over the top for a pretty swirl effect.
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Garnish with extra raspberries and a light dusting of cinnamon, if desired. Serve immediately.
Variations and Substitutions
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Use raspberry jam instead of fresh berries for a shortcut
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Try oat milk or coconut milk for extra creaminess
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Replace honey with agave or maple syrup for a vegan option
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Add a splash of almond extract for a nutty twist
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For an iced dirty chai, add a shot of espresso to the mix
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
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Brewed chai and raspberry purée can both be made ahead and stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days
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Assemble just before serving to keep the layers distinct and the drink fresh
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This drink is best enjoyed fresh, as the milk and fruit can separate over time
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Not suitable for freezing
Conclusion
This Iced Raspberry Vanilla Chai is a fresh, fruity spin on a classic favorite. The tartness of raspberries balances beautifully with the bold chai spices, and a hint of vanilla brings it all together in one elegant, chilled latte. Whether you’re lounging on the patio or need a mid-afternoon refresh, this recipe will become your go-to summer sip.
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Iced Raspberry Vanilla Chai
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A bright and creamy iced chai latte featuring fresh raspberries, warm vanilla, and your favorite milk. This summer drink is as beautiful as it is refreshing.
Ingredients
2 cups chai tea, brewed and chilled
½ cup raspberries or raspberry purée
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1–2 teaspoons honey or sugar
½ cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
Ice cubes
Optional: raspberries and cinnamon for garnish
Instructions
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Brew chai tea and allow it to cool completely. Chill in the refrigerator.
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Blend raspberries with sweetener until smooth. Strain if desired.
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Pour chilled chai tea into a glass. Add vanilla and raspberry purée. Stir gently.
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Add ice. Slowly pour in milk for a swirl effect.
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Garnish and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use raspberry jam if you’re out of fresh berries
- Almond, oat, or coconut milk work well in place of dairy
- Sweeten to taste and adjust the vanilla for a stronger flavor
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: drink
- Method: Blending and Layering
- Cuisine: Seasonal Fusion