Save The first time I made iced chai at home, I stood in my kitchen wondering why something so simple felt like such a revelation. The spices from that morning is tea bags filled the whole room, that warm cinnamon-cardamom cloud that makes you feel like everything is going to be okay. I had been ordering iced chai lattes for years, never realizing that the best version was hiding in my pantry the whole time.
Last summer, my neighbor Sarah came over looking completely defeated by the heat wave. I handed her a glass of this iced chai with cold foam, and I watched her shoulders drop about three inches. She took that first sip through the foam layer and actually gasped, then asked if I could teach her how to make it. Now we text each other whenever we is brewing a fresh batch.
Ingredients
- Strong brewed chai tea: Use two tea bags or loose leaf and steep for a full 5 minutes to get that bold spice foundation
- Honey or maple syrup: Sweetens just enough without overwhelming the spices, and honey adds a lovely floral note
- Vanilla extract: This little addition rounds everything out and makes it taste like something you would pay six dollars for
- Cold whole milk: The fat content here matters for getting that luxurious foam texture
- Heavy cream: Optional, but this is what makes the cold foam feel like a special occasion
- Powdered sugar: Dissolves perfectly into cold milk unlike regular sugar
- Ice cubes: The foundation that makes everything crisp and refreshing
- Ground cinnamon: The finishing touch that makes every sip smell like comfort
Instructions
- Brew your chai concentrate:
- Steep your chai tea in hot water for 5 minutes, then stir in honey and vanilla. Let it cool completely, or speed things up by popping it in the fridge for 15 minutes.
- Create the cold foam:
- Combine cold milk, cream, and powdered sugar, then froth with a handheld frother or shake in a sealed jar until thick and meringue-like.
- Build your drink:
- Fill glasses with ice, pour in the chilled chai, then spoon that gorgeous foam on top. Finish with a dusting of cinnamon and enjoy immediately.
Save 
Save My daughter now requests this on Sunday mornings while she is doing homework at the kitchen counter. There is something about watching the foam slowly mix into the chai that makes even algebra feel a little more manageable.
Making It Your Own
I have discovered that oat milk creates an incredibly smooth foam that almost rivals dairy. For extra spice, add a pinch of cardamom or ginger to your chai concentrate while it is still warm.
Batch Prep Secrets
The chai concentrate keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to a week. I often triple the recipe on Sunday and have iced chai ready to go all week long.
Serving Suggestions
This pairs perfectly with almond biscotti or a buttery shortbread cookie. The slight sweetness from the treat balances the spiced tea beautifully.
- Use a clear glass to show off those beautiful layers
- Sprinkle the cinnamon right before serving for maximum aroma
- Keep your milk glass in the freezer for extra cold foam
Save 
Save There is something deeply satisfying about making something at home that tastes even better than the coffee shop version. Your wallet and your taste buds will thank you.
Recipe Help
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute whole milk with oat, almond, or soy milk. Oat milk froths exceptionally well and creates a thick, creamy texture. Simply omit the heavy cream or use a plant-based whipping cream alternative.
- → How long will the chai concentrate stay fresh?
The chai concentrate remains fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container. Prepare a batch ahead of time for quick assembly throughout the week.
- → What's the best way to froth milk without a frother?
Vigorously shake cold milk and sweetener in a sealed jar for 30-60 seconds until frothy. Alternatively, use a whisk or immersion blender to incorporate air and create a thick foam consistency.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely. Add ground cardamom, ginger, or extra cinnamon to the concentrate for stronger warmth. Start with small pinches and adjust to your preference. The spice intensity also depends on your chai tea blend.
- → Is this better served immediately or can it wait?
For the best texture, enjoy immediately after assembly. The cold foam begins to dissolve after 15-20 minutes. If preparing ahead, keep the chai concentrate and foam separate until ready to serve.
- → Can I use store-bought chai concentrate?
Yes, bottled chai concentrate works perfectly in a pinch. Simply skip the brewing step and mix with honey and vanilla. Adjust sweetener since store-bought versions may already contain sugar.