Description
This cozy flourless chai is a warm, aromatic drink infused with black tea, creamy milk, and classic chai spices. Cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, and a touch of sweetness create a comforting homemade beverage perfect for chilly mornings or relaxing evenings.
Ingredients
Chai Spice Blend
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
- 4 whole cloves
- 3 thin slices fresh ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Pinch of ground nutmeg
Tea Base
- 2 cups water
- 2 black tea bags
Finishing Touches
- 1 cup milk or unsweetened almond milk
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Combine Spices and Water: Add water, cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods, cloves, ginger, black pepper, and nutmeg to a small saucepan, preparing the base for your chai.
- Simmer Spices: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse the water fully.
- Steep Tea: Add the black tea bags to the simmering spice water and steep for 4-5 minutes to develop the rich tea flavor.
- Strain Mixture: Remove the tea bags and strain the liquid to discard the whole spices, resulting in a smooth spiced tea base.
- Add Milk and Sweetener: Return the spiced tea to the saucepan and stir in the milk and maple syrup (or honey). Warm gently over medium-low heat until steaming but not boiling.
- Finalize Flavor: Stir in the vanilla extract to add a subtle, sweet depth to your chai.
- Serve: Pour the warm chai into mugs and enjoy immediately for a comforting drink.
Notes
- Adjust the sweetness according to your preference using more or less maple syrup or honey.
- Try using oat milk, coconut milk, or dairy milk for different flavor experiences.
- For a stronger chai, simmer the spices a few minutes longer before adding tea bags.
- Store any leftover chai in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently to preserve flavors.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian-Inspired
