A chai tea latte is a comforting, milky drink made by blending black tea with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and ginger, then topping it with frothy steamed milk. Popular in coffee shops across the United Kingdom and beyond, it’s usually made using chai concentrate from a box, often sweetened with refined sugar or sugar, giving it a sweet, cozy flavor. Many baristas prepare it quickly by mixing cartoned chai concentrate with hot milk, creating a smooth latte that feels both indulgent and easy to enjoy.
What is Chai Tea Latte?
The chai tea latte is a modern version of traditional spiced tea. Unlike typical coffee or other drinks, it blends the boldness of black tea with warm, fragrant whole spices and your milk of choice. You can easily make a chai latte at home, using a simple recipe that gives you full control over sweetness, flavor, and price—with options like maple syrup as a natural sweetener. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold morning or replacing your usual coffee shop order, it’s a delicious alternative with a soothing touch.
What Does Chai Tea Latte Taste Like?
A chai latte has a unique balance of sweet, warm, and spiced notes. The earthy tone of black tea blends beautifully with the rich flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, while the milky, frothy texture makes every sip creamy and smooth. The flavor is both bold and mellow—perfect for those who enjoy layered taste without too much bitterness or sharpness. Depending on the chai concentrate or whole spices used, the sweetness and spice can vary, but the result is always a rich, comforting drink.
How is it Different from Masala Chai?
- Masala chai is brewed by boiling tea leaves with whole spices, milk, and sugar
- Chai tea latte is usually made with steamed milk and chai concentrate from a box
- Masala chai has a stronger, deeper, and more traditional flavor profile
- Chai tea latte is lighter, smoother, and more café-style
- Masala chai is often homemade; chai tea latte is popular in coffee shops
- Chai tea latte allows more control over sweetness, milk choice, and price
- Masala chai often uses raw spices; chai tea latte uses pre-made concentrate
- Chai tea latte may include alternatives like maple syrup instead of sugar
- The texture of masala chai is thicker and more robust; chai latte is creamier
- Masala chai focuses on strength and tradition; chai latte on convenience and customization
Here is a healthy chai latte recipe so you can enjoy it at home!
for more about chai latte, read here.