Low-Cost Spiced Chai Latte

Featured in: Seasonal Treats

This homemade spiced chai latte combines black tea with cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger for a soothing, aromatic beverage. Quickly simmered on the stove, it becomes creamy after blending with milk and a touch of honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option). Simple to prepare in less than 15 minutes, this cozy drink offers both affordability and customizable spices. For extra froth, whisk vigorously or use a frother before serving. Enjoy the warming blend of flavors—perfect for chilly evenings or as a comforting pick-me-up.

Updated on Fri, 31 Oct 2025 16:54:00 GMT
Homemade low-cost spiced chai latte in a cozy mug, fragrant and warming.  Save
Homemade low-cost spiced chai latte in a cozy mug, fragrant and warming. | crumbnest.com

A homemade, warming chai latte—affordable, aromatic, and perfectly spiced for cozy comfort.

I first made this chai latte on a chilly afternoon when I craved something comforting, but didn&t want to spend on a coffee shop drink. It quickly became my favorite homemade beverage for cozy moments at home.

Ingredients

  • Water: 1 cup
  • Black tea bag: 1
  • Ground cinnamon: ½ tsp
  • Ground cardamom: ¼ tsp
  • Ground ginger: Pinch
  • Milk (dairy or plant-based): ½ cup
  • Honey (or maple syrup): 1 tbsp

Instructions

Simmer spices and tea:
In a small saucepan, combine water, tea bag, cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger.
Infuse flavors:
Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
Remove tea bag:
Remove and discard the tea bag from the saucepan.
Add milk and sweetener:
Stir in milk and honey (or maple syrup). Heat gently, whisking until the mixture is hot and slightly frothy, but do not boil.
Serve:
Pour into a mug and serve immediately.
Creamy low-cost spiced chai latte topped with a frothy milk swirl and spices.  Save
Creamy low-cost spiced chai latte topped with a frothy milk swirl and spices. | crumbnest.com

Making this chai latte for a quiet weekend breakfast reminded me of sharing warm drinks with my family during winter mornings.

Required Tools

You only need a small saucepan, a whisk or spoon, and your favorite mug to enjoy this recipe at home.

Allergen Information

This recipe contains milk if not using a plant-based alternative, and honey is not suitable for young children and vegans.

Nutritional Information

Each serving contains approximately 120 calories, 3 g total fat, 20 g carbohydrates, and 4 g protein.

Vibrant low-cost spiced chai latte, steaming hot with aromatic spices and honey. Save
Vibrant low-cost spiced chai latte, steaming hot with aromatic spices and honey. | crumbnest.com

This easy spiced chai latte lets you enjoy cafe-quality comfort without leaving home. Warm up and savor every sip!

Recipe FAQ

Can I use plant-based milk?

Yes, almond, soy, oat, or other plant-based milks work well and create a creamy texture.

How can I adjust the spice level?

Increase or decrease cinnamon, cardamom, or ginger to suit your preference. Add black pepper or cloves for complexity.

Is this suitable for vegans?

Simply swap honey for maple syrup and use plant-based milk to make the drink fully vegan.

Can I froth the milk?

Whisk vigorously or use a milk frother for extra foam and a café-style finish.

What sweeteners can I use?

Honey adds floral sweetness; maple syrup, agave, or sugar are great alternatives for different flavors.

How long does it take to prepare?

Total time is about 15 minutes, including simmering and frothing for a warm, refreshing beverage.

Low-Cost Spiced Chai Latte

A warming chai latte, perfectly spiced and aromatic for relaxing moments. Simple, affordable, and comforting.

Prep duration
5 min
Cook duration
10 min
Complete duration
15 min
Created by Chloe Martin


Skill Level Easy

Heritage Indian-Inspired

Output 1 Portions

Dietary considerations Meat-Free, No Gluten

Components

Tea & Spices

01 1 cup water
02 1 black tea bag
03 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
04 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
05 Pinch of ground ginger

Dairy & Sweetener

01 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
02 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan)

Directions

Phase 01

Combine Tea and Spices: Add water, black tea bag, cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger to a small saucepan.

Phase 02

Simmer Mixture: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat and let it infuse for 5 minutes.

Phase 03

Remove Tea Bag: Remove and discard the tea bag using a spoon.

Phase 04

Add Milk and Sweetener: Stir in milk and honey. Heat gently, whisking until hot and slightly frothy without boiling.

Phase 05

Serve: Pour the spiced chai latte into a mug and serve immediately.

Tools needed

  • Small saucepan
  • Whisk or spoon
  • Mug

Allergy details

Review each component for potential allergens and seek medical guidance if you're uncertain about ingredients.
  • Contains milk unless plant-based alternative is used.
  • Honey is unsuitable for infants under 1 year; substitute with maple syrup for vegan diets.
  • Review all ingredient packaging for potential allergens.

Nutritional information (each portion)

These values are approximate guides only and shouldn't replace professional medical consultation.
  • Energy: 120
  • Fats: 3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Proteins: 4 g