Chai Latte from Costa Coffee features a harmonious blend of robust black tea, aromatic spices like cinnamon and cardamom, and steamed creamy milk, topped with a light froth, delivering a warm and flavorful beverage with a smooth, velvety texture.
Equipments
- Kettle or water boiler
- Saucepan
- Fine mesh strainer or tea infuser
- Milk frother or steam wand
- Measuring spoons
- Spoon or whisk
- Mug
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 2 black tea bags (or 2 teaspoons loose leaf black tea)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 green cardamom pods
- 4 whole cloves
- 2 black peppercorns
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger
- 2 tablespoons honey or sugar
- 1 cup whole milk
The key ingredients for making a chai latte include robust black tea, aromatic spices such as cinnamon sticks, green cardamom pods, whole cloves, black peppercorns, and fresh ginger. Using whole spices rather than ground versions ensures a more intense and fresh flavor profile that closely mirrors the authentic chai experience. Whole milk is essential for achieving the creamy, velvety texture characteristic of a traditional chai latte; non-dairy alternatives may alter the flavor and consistency. Your choice between honey and sugar will subtly influence the sweetness and depth of the beverage. Replicating the Chai Latte from Costa Coffee requires careful balance and fresh ingredients to capture its distinctive warmth and spice blend.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Boil 2 cups of water in a kettle or saucepan.
- Lightly crush cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, peppercorns, and ginger.
- Add spices and ginger to the boiling water.
- Simmer for 3–5 minutes to infuse.
- Add black tea bags or loose tea and simmer for another 2–3 minutes.
- Strain the mixture into a saucepan, discarding solids.
- Add honey or sugar; stir until dissolved.
- Heat 1 cup whole milk until steaming but not boiling.
- Froth milk using a frother or steam wand.
- Pour spiced tea into a mug until 2/3 full.
- Top with frothed milk.
- Sprinkle with extra cinnamon if desired.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Chai Latte from Costa Coffee copycat recipe offers a rich and comforting blend of black tea infused with warm spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, combined with steamed whole milk for a velvety finish. You can substitute whole milk with almond, oat, or soy milk to accommodate dietary preferences or lactose intolerance while maintaining a creamy texture. If you don't have fresh ginger, powdered ginger or ginger syrup can be used as a convenient alternative, though it may slightly alter the flavor profile. Honey can be swapped with maple syrup, agave nectar, or brown sugar depending on your sweetness preference. Using a fine mesh strainer or tea infuser ensures a smooth chai without any spice residues in your cup.
Tips
Ensure you lightly crush the spices before adding them to the boiling water to release their full aromatic flavors. Avoid boiling the milk; heat it until steaming to prevent a burnt taste and maintain smooth texture. Use a fine mesh strainer to remove all solids for a clean, velvety chai latte experience. Your sweetener, whether honey or sugar, should be fully dissolved in the hot tea base before combining with the frothy milk.
Nutritions
Chai Latte from Costa Coffee contains antioxidants from black tea, which may support heart health, while spices like cinnamon and cardamom provide anti-inflammatory properties and aid digestion. The inclusion of whole milk contributes calcium, vitamin D, and protein, promoting bone strength and muscle repair. However, the added honey or sugar increases the beverage's calorie and sugar content, which is something you should moderate depending on your dietary goals. This combination creates a comforting drink with both nourishing nutrients and flavorful spices.
Storage
To keep your chai latte fresh, store any leftover spiced tea mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. Reheat gently on the stove or in a microwave without boiling, then froth fresh milk before serving for the best texture and flavor. Avoid storing the mixed chai latte with milk already added, as this can affect the milk's texture and overall taste.
Variation or Alternatives
You can customize your Chai Latte by substituting whole milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free alternative that still provides creaminess. To enhance the spice profile, try adding star anise or a pinch of nutmeg during the simmering process. Instead of using black tea, experimenting with rooibos or green tea can offer a unique flavor while maintaining the warm and comforting essence. Adjust the sweetness to your preference by replacing honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Allergies
Chai Latte from Costa Coffee contains common allergens such as whole milk, which may cause reactions in individuals with dairy intolerance or allergies. The beverage also includes spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, which can occasionally trigger sensitivities in some people. You should be cautious if you have known allergies to any of these ingredients to avoid adverse reactions.
Why this recipe?
The Chai Latte from Costa Coffee offers a perfect blend of robust black tea and warming spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, creating a comforting and flavorful experience. Its creamy texture combined with subtle sweetness makes it a popular choice for those seeking a cozy, aromatic beverage. You can easily recreate this delightful drink at home, allowing you to customize the spice levels and sweetness to your preference while enjoying a cafe-quality chai latte. Making a copycat recipe is worth it for the satisfaction of savoring a beloved menu favorite anytime without the cafe trip.