If you’re craving the cozy warmth and spicy sweetness of your favorite coffee shop chai latte but want to recreate it right at home, then you are going to adore this Homemade Chai Latte Mix Recipe. It’s a deliciously fragrant blend of spices, creamy powders, and tea that comes together in a mix you can whip up in minutes and enjoy anytime. Whether you like it bold and spicy or soft and sweet, this mix lets you customize each cup to your heart’s content—without a trip out or breaking the bank. Plus, making a big batch means you’re never more than a few spoonfuls away from comfort in a cup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Homemade Chai Latte Mix Recipe shines because of its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays an important role—bringing out layers of flavor, creaminess, and that inviting chai aroma we all crave.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds the perfect touch of sweetness to balance the spices.
- 1 cup unsweetened instant tea: Provides that essential robust tea base without any bitterness.
- ¾ cup powdered French Vanilla non-dairy coffee creamer: Gives a creamy texture and delightful vanilla undertone.
- ¾ cup powdered non-dairy creamer: Offers extra creaminess making the latte rich and smooth.
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar: Brings warmth and a subtle molasses note for depth.
- ½ cup nonfat dry milk powder: Adds body and richness without extra fat.
- 2 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon: The quintessential chai spice that imparts warmth and sweetness.
- 2 ½ teaspoons ground cardamom: A fragrant spice that adds citrusy, floral brightness.
- 2 teaspoons ground cloves: Brings heady, aromatic spiciness to the mix.
- 1 ¼ teaspoons ground white pepper: Adds a subtle spicy kick without overpowering.
- 1 ¼ teaspoons ground coriander: Offers a mild lemony flavor enhancing the spice blend.
- 1 ¼ teaspoons ground ginger: Gives warmth and smoky spice that’s classic in chai.
How to Make Homemade Chai Latte Mix Recipe
Step 1: Combine All Ingredients
Start by gathering all your measured ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Pour in the sugars, instant tea, creamers, dry milk powder, and spices. Using a whisk or spoon, mix everything thoroughly so the sugars, powders, and spices are evenly distributed. This step is crucial to ensure each spoonful of your mix delivers consistent flavor and goodness.
Step 2: Blend Into a Fine Powder
Next, transfer the combined mixture to a blender or food processor. Pulse and blend until the mix becomes a fine, smooth powder. This blending step helps to break down any clumps and fully incorporate the spices and sugars into one harmonious blend, making it easier to dissolve beautifully in hot liquids.
Step 3: Store Properly
Once blended, pour your chai mix into an airtight container or jar. Seal tightly and store it in a cool, dry place away from moisture or sunlight. Your mix will remain fresh and flavorful for up to five months, ready to transform your tea or milk into a comforting chai latte any time.
How to Serve Homemade Chai Latte Mix Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your chai latte experience, think beyond just the mix. A sprinkle of ground cinnamon or a few whole cardamom pods on top adds visual appeal and an extra burst of fragrance. You can also swirl in a bit of honey or maple syrup for natural sweetness or top your latte with a frothy milk foam for that café touch.
Side Dishes
A spicy chai latte pairs wonderfully with a variety of treats. Consider buttery shortbread cookies, warm cinnamon rolls, or a fresh almond biscotti. The sweet and spiced notes of the chai beautifully complement baked goods that carry subtle vanilla or nut flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings or a cozy tea party, serve your chai latte in clear glass mugs to showcase the creamy texture and inviting color. Layer the latte with whipped cream and a dusting of pumpkin pie spice for an indulgent treat. If you’re feeling adventurous, try making iced chai lattes by chilling the mix with milk and ice cubes garnished with a cinnamon stick stirrer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your homemade chai latte mix keeps beautifully at room temperature for up to five months when stored in an airtight container. Keep the jar tightly sealed and away from heat or humidity to preserve the vibrant flavors and prevent clumping.
Freezing
Freezing the chai mix is generally not necessary because it stores well in a pantry environment. However, if you prefer to freeze a large batch, make sure to use a freezer-safe airtight container and let the mix return to room temperature before scooping to avoid condensation.
Reheating
This mix is designed to be dissolved in hot water, milk, or tea, so reheating simply means preparing your latte fresh by mixing 2 to 3 tablespoons of chai mix into approximately 10 ounces of your preferred liquid. Stir well and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave until steaming and cozy.
FAQs
Can I adjust the spice level in this Homemade Chai Latte Mix Recipe?
Absolutely! One of the joys of this recipe is its flexibility. If you prefer a milder chai, reduce the cinnamon, cloves, and pepper slightly. For a more intense, spicy chai, increase the cardamom and ginger. Experiment until you find your perfect balance.
Is this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, this recipe uses non-dairy coffee creamers and powdered nonfat dry milk powder. For a truly dairy-free version, substitute the dry milk powder with coconut milk powder or additional non-dairy creamer to keep it creamy.
How long does the Homemade Chai Latte Mix Recipe last once made?
Stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry spot, this chai latte mix maintains its flavor and freshness for up to five months, making it a great make-ahead pantry staple.
Can I use loose leaf tea instead of instant tea?
Instant tea is recommended for ease and smooth blending, but if you prefer loose leaf tea, brew a strong concentrate and reduce the amount of added liquid accordingly when preparing your latte. However, the mix will not blend as dry if you try to substitute loose leaf directly.
How do I make a dirty chai using this mix?
Simply prepare your chai latte as usual by mixing 2-3 tablespoons of the mix with hot water or milk, then add two shots of freshly brewed espresso. This combo gives you that wonderful espresso kick combined with the warming chai spices.
Final Thoughts
Making your own Homemade Chai Latte Mix Recipe is such a rewarding experience—it’s like capturing the essence of a cozy café right in your kitchen. Once you try it, you’ll love the convenience of having a flavorful, customizable chai mix ready to brighten even the chillest mornings or the coziest evenings. It’s a simple recipe with big impact, perfect for sharing with loved ones or treating yourself whenever that chai craving hits. So go ahead, mix up a batch, and savor the spicy, creamy goodness at home anytime you want!
PrintHomemade Chai Latte Mix Recipe
Create your favorite coffee shop chai latte at home with this easy Homemade Chai Latte Mix. This versatile spice blend combines instant tea, powdered creamers, sugars, and warming spices, allowing you to customize the flavor to be as spicy or mild as you like. Perfect for making cozy chai lattes or dirty chai espresso drinks.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: About 30 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Indian-American Fusion
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsweetened instant tea
- 3/4 cup powdered French Vanilla non-dairy coffee creamer
- 3/4 cup powdered non-dairy creamer
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup nonfat dry milk powder
Spices
- 2 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (5 grams)
- 2 1/2 teaspoons ground cardamom (5 grams)
- 2 teaspoons ground cloves (5 grams)
- 1 1/4 teaspoons ground white pepper (3 grams)
- 1 1/4 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 1/4 teaspoons ground ginger
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix all the dry ingredients and spices thoroughly. Stir well to ensure even distribution of the sugars, instant tea, creamers, and spices.
- Blend to Fine Powder: Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor. Blend until it becomes a fine, consistent powder. This will help the mix dissolve easily in hot liquids.
- Store Properly: Pour the blended chai latte mix into an airtight jar or container. Store it at room temperature and keep it sealed to maintain freshness for up to 5 months.
- Prepare Your Drink: To make a chai latte, add 2 to 3 tablespoons of the mix to approximately 10 ounces of hot water, milk, or brewed black tea in a mug. Stir well to combine.
- Optional Dirty Chai: For a dirty chai latte, simply add 2 shots of espresso to the prepared chai latte for an extra caffeine kick and richer flavor.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of spices to make the chai latte more or less spicy according to your preference.
- Use hot water for a lighter chai or milk for a creamier texture.
- The mix can also be added to brewed black tea for a traditional chai flavor.
- Ensure the container is airtight to maximize shelf life and prevent moisture from clumping the powder.
- Use non-dairy creamers if lactose intolerant or prefer a vegan-friendly option.