Easy Chai Tea Latte (Homemade)

I love a chai tea latte, but ordering one out always feels like a gamble.

Sometimes it’s way too sweet, other times it barely tastes like chai at all, and most days I just do not want to leave the house for a drink.

Between busy mornings and long afternoons, I wanted something cozy I could make at home that still felt like a treat.

Something warm, comforting, and familiar without needing special tools or a trip to a coffee shop.

This easy homemade chai tea latte solves that.

You’ll learn how to make a simple, flavorful chai latte using everyday ingredients, adjust it to your taste, and turn it into a small daily ritual that feels special.

It’s the kind of drink you’ll reach for on slow mornings, quiet afternoons, and those moments when you just need something warm in your hands.

What You Might Need

Saucepan or small pot
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk or spoon
Mug
Milk frother (optional but fun)

Ingredients for Easy Chai Tea Latte

1 cup water
1 chai tea bag (or 1 tablespoon loose-leaf chai)
1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
1 to 2 teaspoons honey, maple syrup, or sugar
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg (optional)

Making your chai tea latte at home just makes sense once you see how simple this ingredient list is.

You control the sweetness, the spice level, and the milk, so it actually tastes the way you want it to.

It’s quicker than a coffee shop run, costs way less, and ends up tasting warmer and more balanced because nothing is rushed or overly sweetened.

Once you try it this way, buying one out starts to feel unnecessary.

Step-By-Step Instructions on How to Make Chai Tea

Step 1: Steep the chai

You start by bringing the water to a gentle simmer in a small saucepan, not a full boil. Once it’s warm, you add the chai tea bag and let it steep for about five minutes. This gives the spices time to open up and creates that rich chai flavor instead of something weak or watery.

Step 2: Sweeten the tea

You remove the tea bag and add your sweetener while the tea is still hot so it dissolves smoothly. Stir well and taste as you go. This is the moment to adjust the sweetness so it feels balanced and not overpowering.

Step 3: Heat the milk

You pour the milk straight into the saucepan with the brewed chai. Warm it gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally, and keep an eye on it so it doesn’t boil. Heating it slowly keeps the milk creamy and smooth.

Step 4: Add vanilla and spice

You stir in the vanilla extract and a small pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. These little extras add warmth and depth without taking over the chai flavor.

Step 5: Froth and serve

You whisk the latte or use a milk frother until the top is lightly foamy. Pour it into your favorite mug and add a sprinkle of cinnamon if you like. This final step makes it feel just as special as something you’d order out, only better because you made it yourself.