Heather’s Favorite From-Scratch Chai Tea Latte Recipe

I would not be an author without Chai Tea Lattes! My muse works for that semi-sweet, cinnamon flavored warm goodness. Without it, she doesn’t show up – LOL! And at this time of year, when the weather turns crisp and cool, it keeps me comfortably warm and cozy.

I have some quick ways to brew some chai tea using concentrates, but if I have a bit of time, I like to brew my own from the spices in their simple form. The result is a milder, much more authentic taste of this delicious, soothing treat. I sipped it each day while I write my Scottish Historical Romances.

Ingredients:

1 cup whole milk (or non-dairy milk of your choice)

2 cups filtered water (I use from my refrigerator filtered water)

1-2 cinnamon stick(s) broken into pieces

6 cardamom pods

7 cloves

1 tsp. black peppercorn

3 star anise pods

¼ tsp. ginger powder

1 inch cut off a whole vanilla bean (optional)

2 Tbsp. sugar (or less if you like it less sweet)

1 Tbsp. loose leaf black tea

Put milk and water in medium saucepan. Add cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, peppercorns, anise pods, ginger, vanilla bean piece and sugar. Bring to boil (watch closely so it doesn’t boil over), then simmer for 5 minutes on low heat. Turn off heat, add tea leaves and steep, covered for 3-4 minutes. Strain out spices, then enjoy! Serves 2.