Because of my gut sensitivity, I can’t have too much coffee. I am a chai lover and I love it.
This Christmas Chai Latte is honestly my favorite warm drink of the season.
I first made it on a night when I couldn’t decide between chai and hot chocolate, and the moment I tasted it, I knew it was going on the blog.
It’s creamy, spiced, and feels like a tiny festive hug in a cup.
If you’re someone who loves cozy drinks, soft fairy lights, and that warm feeling of “ah, finally,” then this is the holiday recipe you’ll keep making over and over.
I’m adding variations and substitutes at the bottom of the recipe.
Tips to Make It Even More Delicious
- For a super silky texture, I use this milk frother, this causes the milk to become nice and foamy like the one you get in a cafe.
- Use fresh spices instead of powders for the best fragrance.
- Add 1 tsp brown sugar for a deeper caramel note.
- For a super creamy version, replace 1/4 cup milk with cream or half-and-half.
- My favorite festive mug
- Whole spices set (amazing for winter drinks)
Christmas Chai Latte
Course: BreakfastDifficulty: Easy2
servings5
minutes10
minutesIngredients
• 2 cups milk (whole milk or lactose-free)
• 2 black tea bags
• 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 whole cloves
• 2–3 cardamom pods, lightly crushed
• 1 star anise
• 1 small piece of fresh ginger (or ½ tsp ginger powder)
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of nutmeg
• Whipped cream and ground cinnamon for garnish
Directions
- In a small saucepan, gently warm the milk with the cinnamon stick, cloves, cardamom, ginger, and star anise. Heat it on low so the spices slowly infuse without boiling over, letting the whole kitchen smell like Christmas in the best way.
- Once the milk is steaming, turn off the heat and drop in the tea bags. Let them steep for 3 to 4 minutes depending on how strong you like your chai flavor. Remove the tea bags and discard them.
- Stir in maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a tiny pinch of nutmeg. Whisk everything together until it looks creamy and festive. If you want a café-style frothy top, use a hand frother for 10 to 15 seconds.
- Pour the Christmas Chai Latte into your coziest mugs. Add whipped cream on top, dust with cinnamon, and serve with a cinnamon stick for full holiday vibes.
Notes
- This is one of my favorite beverages during Christmas
Variations and Substitutes
- Swap maple syrup with sugar-free sweetener for a lighter drink.
- Use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Add a teaspoon of cocoa powder to make a Christmas Chai Mocha.
- Add some orange zest for a citrusy Christmas twist.
- Replace black tea with rooibos if you want a caffeine-free version.
- For a gingerbread version, add 1 tsp molasses + extra cinnamon..
Conclusion
Every time I make this Christmas Chai Latte, it becomes a little ritual — the kind that instantly makes the day feel comforting and sweet.
It’s the perfect drink for reading by the tree, watching snowfall, or just taking a quiet moment for yourself. I hope this recipe becomes one of your cozy holiday traditions too.
If you’re building a holiday drink bar this season, you can also use this set of Christmas mugs to make your chai table extra festive.
