What exactly is a chai tea latte?

A chai tea latte is a drink made from spiced black tea combined with milk and sweetener. Unlike plain chai tea, the latte version is creamier and smoother because of the higher milk content. In cafés, especially Starbucks, the drink is usually made with a chai concentrate or syrup mixed with milk. This method creates a consistent flavor that’s mildly sweet and spice-forward, making it appealing to a wide range of tastes.

Is a chai tea latte healthier than coffee?

A chai tea latte can be healthier than coffee in some situations, but it depends on how both drinks are prepared. Plain black coffee has fewer calories, but many coffee drinks include flavored syrups and creamers. In comparison, a chai tea latte contains spices like cinnamon and ginger and generally has less caffeine. However, café versions can be high in sugar. When made at home with controlled sweetness, a chai tea latte can be a balanced alternative to sugary coffee drinks.

Is a chai latte a lot of caffeine?

A chai latte is not considered high in caffeine. Because it’s made with black tea instead of espresso, it typically contains about half the caffeine of a regular cup of coffee. This makes it a good option for people who want a gentle energy boost without feeling overstimulated. An iced chai tea latte has roughly the same caffeine level as the hot version.

Are Starbucks chai tea lattes healthy?

Starbucks chai tea lattes are enjoyable but should be consumed in moderation. They use a sweetened chai concentrate, which increases sugar and calorie content. While they do contain tea and spices, the added sugar can add up quickly, especially in larger sizes. Choosing a smaller size, fewer pumps, or making a Starbucks-style chai tea latte at home can help make it a healthier option.

Chai Tea Latte: A Delicious Guide to Starbucks Calories & Recipes

Description

A chai tea latte is a smooth and spiced blend of black tea, milk, and warm aromatic spices. It’s one of the most comforting and popular café-style drinks, perfect for those who want flavor and coziness without the intensity of coffee.

Ingredients

Scale

2 chai tea bags or 2 tablespoons loose-leaf chai
1 cup water
1 cup milk (whole, almond, oat, or soy)
1–2 teaspoons sweetener (honey, maple syrup, or sugar)
Optional: extra cinnamon, ginger, or cardamom for stronger spice

Instructions

Brew chai tea bags or loose-leaf chai in 1 cup of hot water for 5 minutes.
In a separate pot, heat 1 cup of milk until warm (do not boil).
Froth the milk if desired for a café-style finish.
Combine the brewed tea and warm milk in a mug in equal parts.
Sweeten to taste with honey, maple syrup, or sugar.
Optionally, sprinkle with cinnamon or other spices for extra flavor.
Serve hot and enjoy your homemade chai tea latte.

Notes

To make it iced, chill the brewed tea, pour over ice, and add cold milk. For a Starbucks-style version, use chai concentrate and mix with milk at a 1:1 ratio.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Beverages
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 120
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 50mg
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: chai tea latte, homemade chai, Starbucks chai, iced chai latte, spiced tea