How to Make Chai Tea Latte (3 Different Methods Depending on How Much Time You Have)

Some mornings, you just need something comforting but also quick—something that feels a bit special but doesn’t require a lot of effort. That’s where a chai tea latte comes in. Whether you’re rushing out the door or enjoying a slow weekend, this spiced, creamy drink can be exactly what you need. And depending on how much time you have, there’s a version for everyone—from a quick fix to a more involved brew that allows you to savor every step.

Instant Chai Tea Latte

Sometimes you need your chai tea latte, and you need it now. This version is for those moments when every second counts, but you still want that warm, spiced goodness.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup pre-made chai concentrate
• 1/2 cup milk (or milk alternative)
• Sweetener to taste (optional)

Time Required: 2 minutes

Start by warming your pre-made chai concentrate. You can do this on the stovetop or in the microwave—whichever is faster for you. Once it’s hot, pour it into your favorite mug. Add the milk, and if you like it a bit sweeter, stir in a little honey or sugar. Give it a good stir to combine everything. That’s it—you’re done. This is the quickest way to get your chai fix, perfect for those mornings when you’re racing the clock.

The Tea Bag Method

If you’ve got a bit more time, this method allows you to brew a fresh cup of chai with a bit more depth and flavor. It’s ideal for those mornings when you can afford a few extra minutes but still want to keep things relatively simple.

Ingredients:

• 1 chai tea bag (or 1 teaspoon loose chai tea)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup milk (or milk alternative)
• Sweetener to taste (optional)

Time Required: 5-7 minutes

Boil the water in an electric kettle and pour it over your chai tea bag (or loose tea in a tea strainer). Let it steep for about 3-5 minutes, depending on how strong you like your chai. While the tea is steeping, heat the milk in a separate pot or in the microwave until it’s hot but not boiling. Once your tea is ready, remove the tea bag or strain the loose tea, then pour in the hot milk. Stir in sweetener if you prefer a sweeter chai. This method gives you a fresher taste with just a little more effort.

The Traditional Brew

For those days when you have the time and want to fully immerse yourself in the chai experience, this traditional method is the way to go. It involves simmering the spices and tea together, which creates a rich and deeply flavored chai tea latte.

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon loose chai tea or 1 chai tea bag
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup milk (or milk alternative)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
• Sweetener to taste

Time Required: 10-15 minutes

Start by bringing the water to a boil in a small pot. Add the loose chai tea or tea bag, along with the cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse the water. Next, add the milk and continue to simmer for another 3-5 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through. Strain the tea into a mug if you used loose tea, or simply remove the tea bag. Sweeten to taste and enjoy your deeply aromatic chai tea latte.

These three methods cover every situation, whether you’re in a hurry or have a bit of time to indulge. And if you’re a fan of using loose tea leaves, you might want to explore more about how to choose the right kind for your chai—there’s a lot to learn when it comes to loose tea leaves.

No matter which version you choose, you’re in for a treat. The warm spices, creamy milk, and soothing tea all come together to create something that feels like a small luxury, even on the busiest of mornings.