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Spicy Chai

Learn how to make spicy chai with bold ingredients like ginger and black pepper. Discover recipes and top store-bought spicy chai blends.

This Spicy Chai is a bold and aromatic tea blend infused with warming spices like cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and black pepper. Perfectly balanced with black tea and creamy milk, this homemade chai is a comforting and invigorating drink! ☕

Ingredients

Scale

For the Spicy Chai:

  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 3 green cardamom pods, crushed
  • 3 cloves
  • 1-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced
  • ½ tsp black peppercorns
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 star anise (optional)
  • 2 black tea bags (or 2 tsp loose-leaf black tea)
  • 1 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
  • 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  • Simmer the Spices:

    • In a saucepan, combine water, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, ginger, black pepper, nutmeg, and star anise.
    • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 5 minutes to release the flavors.
  • Brew the Tea:

    • Add black tea bags to the pot and let steep for 3-5 minutes.
  • Add the Milk:

    • Stir in milk and simmer for another 2 minutes, ensuring it’s well combined.
  • Sweeten & Strain:

    • Remove from heat and strain the tea into mugs.
    • Stir in honey or maple syrup and vanilla extract if using.
  • Serve & Enjoy:

    • Pour into mugs and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a cinnamon stick.

Notes

  • For an extra spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • For a dairy-free version, use oat milk, almond milk, or coconut milk.
  • For an iced chai, let cool and pour over ice cubes.