Whats In The Starbucks Chai Tea Latte:
The Starbucks chai tea latte uses a base of a chai tea concentrate that has the traditional chai spices:
- Star Anise
These, combined with strong black team, create the orchestra of flavors known as chai. But, know that chai is easily customizable, so each coffeehouse has their own take on the chai with Peets being on the spicier side and Starbucks having a more cinnamony and less kicky chai.
The flavor is sort of like pumpkin pie without the pumpkin its warm and comforting and tasty.
For the chai tea latte, this concentrate is mixed with your choice of milk and then ice is added and voila! Deliciousness is served.
Sometimes, they shake it in the shaker and thats when its the best ever because it gives it some froth. Yall know we are all about the froth here at WTF.
We have noticed that the depth of color is different based on milk choice. Heres a picture of one with regular milk. Notice its lighter in color. Also, I drank some before we took pictures. Sue me.
So, you can see that milk choice not only effects taste but color. I find the oatmilk brings out the flavors even more.
What Is The Difference Between A Chai Latte And A Chai Tea Latte
Chai tea is a type of black tea that is flavored with spices such as cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon.
A chai latte is made with steamed milk and these spices.
The difference between the two drinks lies in the preparation method and ingredients used.
Chai tea is brewed with water and then mixed with milk and spices, while a chai latte starts with already-steeped tea mixed with milk and spices which is then frothed.
Final Thoughts: Chai Tea Vs Chai Latte
The battle of Chai tea vs Chai latte is basically the traditional vs the modern world. If you prefer the strong taste of black tea and spices with just enough milk to tone it down, chai tea is your choice.
But if youre looking into something smoother you can easily customize, a cup of Chai latte would suit you best.
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Wondering What *is* Chai Tea You’re Not Alone We’re Breaking It Down For You From Its Health Benefits To A Tasty Chai Tea Recipe You Can Make At Home
Oh, how I love chai tea. When I was growing up, my mom, sister and I would brew up chai tea lattes in the morning before school, each dolloped with whipped cream. A piping-hot chai still holds a special place in my heart. Its one of my favorite fall drinks and my go-to coffee shop copycat recipe.
Over the years, Ive come to realize that besides its incredible taste, traditional chai tea has multiple health benefits! Now, its my turn to get you hooked.
Is Vanilla Chai Tea Healthy
You can buy chai tea and chai tea lattes with a few different additions, but vanilla is very common.
Vanilla chai lattes are usually created by adding vanilla syrup which is going to increase the sugar and calories in the drink.
If you like the combination youd be better off buying a fresh Chai Tea with vanilla included.
Twinings sell a Chai Tea with French Vanilla that will fit the bill.
So there you have it. We all know more than we probably ever needed about the health effects of chai. Personally, I go to cafes so infrequently Im feeling its fine to keep up with my new find, but if youre drinking chai tea lattes daily, you might want to use some of our tips to make things healthier to help cut back on calories and sugar.
If you liked this, you might also want to check out our guide to the health benefits of instant coffee is really good for you, or should you avoid it?
Who is The Wellness Nerd?
My name is Helen Foster and Im a health journalist and wellness author. Publications Ive written for include Womens Health, Readers Digest, Body and Soul, Good Health at the Daily Mail and more. I have also written 16 books on health and nutrition.
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Add Some Sugar And Spice To Your Life With Masala Chai A Delicious Tea With A Fascinating History And Surprising Health Benefits
Sweet cinnamon, peppery cardamom, and robust black tea tingle along your tongue and spread warmth throughout your body. With creamy milk and sugar to balance out the spice, chai is the perfect drink when youre craving a treat. But what is chai tea, exactly? Simply put, its an Indian tea that started gaining popularity in the United States decades ago. While youve always been able to order it at your favorite Indian restaurant, nowadays you can find chai tea written on almost every coffee shop menu, and you can even buy cartons of premade chai in your local grocery store.
As niche coffee and tea drinks go mainstream, casual sippers are seeking answers to the big questions: What is cold brew coffee? Whats a macchiato? Whose utterly brilliant idea was it to combine spiced tea, milk, and sugar?
Chai Tea Latte Starbucks Recipe
I love a good chai tea latte recipe, Starbucks style. Were going to learn whats in a Starbucks Chai Tea Latte and how to craft your own using by using Tazo chai tea bags, oat milk and maple syrup or honey! Of course you can use any chai tea, but the Tazo contains the same spices as the Starbucks concentrate.
The only thing I dislike about most Starbucks lattes is their sweetness level. So I like making them at home so can make them more to my taste. Its also more afforable to make at home.
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What Is A Dirty Chai A Brief Definition
A Dirty Chai is a very popular espresso-based drink.
Nowadays, people serve it in many coffee shops and restaurants. Chances are very high, that you probably already had a taste or sip of it yourself.
Or, you are already a real Chai tea lover anyhow, like me. Hence, it was just a matter of time until we would also very much appreciate the Dirty Chai.
Typically, the Dirty Chai consists of a single shot of espresso. And, it is mixed or even infused into a spiced chai tea.
In terms of tea choice, most of common is to use the traditional Masala Chai from India.
Furthermore, the Dirty Chai is usually made with a chai concentrate or actual tea. Plus, you are adding steamed milk and the single shot of espresso.
The result is a cross between a regular Latte and a Chai Tea Latte.
However, you may be more familiar with the Dirty Chai under a different name. Alternative names are Espresso Chai or Java Chai. Other common names also include Red Eye Chai, Chai Charger or Tough Guy Chai.
Probably, the most well-known synonym is the widely used name of Chai Tea Latte.
Essentially, both names stand for the same type of drink. And, they both also have more or less very similar or even identical recipes.
Nonetheless, some people would argue that the Chai Tea Latte is an individual drink on its own. We respectfully want to honor all opinions and therefore mention it here.
Traditionally, you can either serve a Dirty Chai hot or cold.
Going More Into Detail
Is the Dirty Chai Healthy?
Are Chai And Masala Chai The Same Thing
What started as masala chai in India is known in the West today as chai tea.
Its a hot drink that you make by brewing tea with aromatic spices and often ginger.
Some cultures use milk in chai, and some dont. The issue is that the flavor can change depending on where its made and whos making it.
In India, you can find street vendors called chai wallahs on every street corner.
They put on flashy tea presentations and serve savory chai with black pepper. In the US, chai is sweeter. It also has strong flavors of cinnamon, cloves, and sometimes vanilla.
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So What Does A Chai Tea Latte Taste Like
A chai tea latte tastes like sweet spiced tea with milk, but each recipe is a little different.
Chai tea lattes have a spiced flavor, usually from aromatics like cinnamon, clove, and green cardamom.
Ginger makes it brighter, while black pepper kicks up the spice! Some masala chai has saffron or vanilla.
These additions sweeten and mellow things out. Chai also gets a malty flavor from black tea or a grassy flavor if you use green tea.
Western chai drinkers also use Rooibos and Pekoe teas with a lighter malt flavor.
Preparation also makes a difference. Use a chai tea bag for a milder, more uniform flavor. Using premixed syrups and powders allows you to control how strong the flavor is.
For a more traditional spiced flavor, add loose spices.
Tip: Some people toast and crack the spices. This method lends a nutty, bitter taste to your chai tea latte.
Milk is steamed and added at the end of preparation. Adding vegan milk like coconut or oat milk also influences the taste.
If you like sweet chai tea lattes, you can add white sugar.
Across the globe, white sugar is the most common chai tea sweetener. Ultimately, its about what you like. I suggest that you find a recipe and stick to it.
How To Store Chai Latte To Enjoy All Week Long
The steeped tea and the honey syrup will keep separately for at least a week in the refrigerator. You can double or triple the recipe, depending on how much you’ll be drinking, to make a week’s worth. Add the milk just before serving.
If you find you have some extra prepared chai tea that you won’t be using, you can freeze it in ice cube trays to add to future glasses of iced chai lattés or even regular iced tea.
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Caff Latte With Chai Syrup
Espresso + Steamed 2% Milk + Chai Concentrate
How to Order: Order a Caffè Latte from the hot coffees section of the Starbucks menu. Turn it into a dirty chai by customizing it with a pumps of chai.
One thing to note ordering a dirty chai with a Caffè Latte as the base drink has a stronger chai flavor compared to a dirty chai whose base drink is a chai tea latte.
This is because a chai tea latte has water added to it since Starbucks chai tea syrup is concentrated. Take that into account when selecting the number of pumps of chai to add to a Caffè Latte.
Is Starbucks Chai Tea Latte Healthy
Starbucks chai tea lattes may taste delicious, but they aren’t exactly healthy. The chai tea concentrate used at Starbucks is loaded with sugar. Grande Starbucks chai tea lattes have 240 calories and 42 grams of sugar!
That’s why I prefer to make my own Starbucks chai tea lattes at home using a homemade chai concentrate that has far less sugar.
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A Few Questions Answered
Should you use ground or whole spices?
Traditionally, whole spices are simmered in the pot. But Im keeping this recipe simple with ground spices for those who dont have direct access to the latter. Fret not though, because the results are still a deliciously spice latte!
How do I make a dirty chai latte?
As you let the black tea simmer with the milk in the pot, brew 2 shots of espresso. Then pour one shot into each mug. Once youve finished making the chai latte, pour it over the espresso shots and give it a stir before drinking.
How do I make an iced chai latte?
If its a warm day and youd like a refreshing iced chai, all you need to do is prep two cups with ice cubes. After youve made the recipe as is, just pour the chai latte over the ice and give it a stir.
Chai Frappuccino With Affogato
Chai Concentrate + Ice + Whole Milk +Creme Frappuccino Syrup + Brewed Espresso + Whipped Cream + Cinnamon
How to Order: Order a Chai Creme Frappuccino from the Frappuccino Blended Beverages menu section on the Starbucks app. Then, to make it a dirty chai frappuccino, customize it by selecting Add Affogato-Style Shots in the Espresso & Shot Options section. You can also choose the espresso roastâsignature, blonde or decaf.
BARISTA TIP: To order a dirty chai frappuccino, order it with affogato shots. This way, the espresso will be poured over the completed frappuccino and overall it will come out thicker than blending in the espresso.
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References And Further Reading
1. Homemade Chai Tea Latte , on Live Simply – a recipe and detailed instructions and pictures on how to make one of these drinks from scratch, using whole ingredients.
2. Home Made Chai Latte’ on Instructables – Also a recipe with step-by-step instructions and pictures, on making this drink from scratch, using tea bags and whole spices.
Questions You May Have
Can you get a vegan or dairy-free dirty chai tea latte from Starbucks?
Starbucks does not claim to make any drinks vegan or dairy-free since there is shared equipment and cross-contamination is possible. That being said, to order a Starbucks dirty chai made with dairy-free or vegan ingredients, simply substitute the milk for an alternative plant-based milk such as almond, oat, soy or coconut. Additionally, skip the whipped cream on dirty chai frappuccinos.
Does Starbucks have a healthy, sugar-free dirty chai latte option?
Starbucks chai tea concentrate is a blend of black tea and spices sugar and honey and other flavors. Since this tea mix comes to Starbucks in pre-mixed boxes, its not possible to order a sugar-free dirty chai or any chai drink from the concentrate. However, to get a healthier dirty chai, order a chai tea latte made from chai tea bags without any sugar added.
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Chai Tea Health Benefits
Not only is chai tea delicious, but it also has a slew of health benefits! If you are looking to de-bloat or become a little more regular in the loo, add a cup of chai tea to your daily routine!
Good for digestion- Chai tea spices are a combination of some amazing digestive spices that promote healthy bowels, people!
Cinnamon and ginger are said to calm the stomach while spices like cardamom and allspice have properties that help decrease bloating.
Reduced Caffeine- Yes, black tea does have caffeine, but it has half the amount of caffeine than a cup of black coffee.
If you are looking to cut back on your caffeine intake try black tea instead of coffee! Or? Make yourself a delicious chai tea latte, duh!
Antioxidant-rich Black tea is the base of most chai tea and black tea is antioxidant-rich, which support heart health!
Anti Inflammatory Ginger and cinnamon are two of the main ingredients in our DIY chai spices and both ginger and cinnamon are known for their anti-inflammatory properties!
The History Of Chai Tea Latte Is Vague
The history of a chai tea latte is quite uncertain. Some suggest that it appeared in Western coffee shops in the 1990s. But there is no accurate data to confirm when it originated. However, its popularity has increased for the past 10 to 15 years.
Currently, it’s available in most popular coffee shop chains, including Costa Coffee, Dunkin’ Donuts, Tim Hortons, and Starbucks.
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Easy Chai Latte Recipe
This Chai Latte recipe has the sweet and spicy flavor that you love, and can be made at home in just minutes. Its dairy-free, naturally sweetened, and makes a great healthier alternative to the kind youd buy at a coffee shop.
As an added bonus, its cheaper and has no weird preservatives or additives. I love making it at home because I get to control the amount of spice and sweetness. You can simply taste as you go!
Can I Make My Own Chai Tea Concentrate
Yes you can make your own or purchase a premade one. I like making concentrated tea by using Tazo Chai Tea bags. They contain the same ingredients as the Starbucks chai concentrate. Tazo Chai Tea contains: Black Teas, Ginger, Cinnamon, Black Pepper, Cardomon, Cloves and Star Anise.
Some of you may prefer making your own spice mix. If so, check out this recipe that uses the same spices as the Starbucks chai concentrate. My method for creating a concentrated chai is is easy. All you need is a Tazo chai tea bag, honey or maple syrup and some hot water.
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Benefits Of Drinking Chai Tea Lattes
Before we talk about those frothy chai lattes that you likely know and love, lets first dive into whatchai tea actually is. Chai tea is most commonly made by combining black tea with a powerful blend of warm spices like ginger, cardamom, fennel, black pepper, clove and cinnamon.
Fun fact: did you know thatchai is the Hindi word fortea? And if youre a fan of Indian cuisine, you may know thatmasala refers to a combination of spices. So, once this spicy tea is combined with milk, its referred to asmasala chaiin India.You can refer to this cozy drink as any of the above, but in North America, it is typically called a chai tea latte.
Due to its increased popularity over the years, chai tea can be purchased in pre-packaged tea bags or almost any coffee shop around the world.
Is There The Difference Between A Chai Latte And A Dirty Chai
Somebody might be wondering what the difference between a chai latte and dirty chai is. A chai latte is a type of tea drink containing cinnamon, cardamon, clove, and ginger. Dirty chai is like a chai latte with the addition of espresso. The addition of coffee to the drink gives it a stronger flavour than a regular chai latte. If you cannot choose which to have, a cup of chai latte or coffee, then dirty chai may be the best option. As a coffee lover myself, this drink is a great invention!
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