BHA & BHT Free Spiced Chai Latte
Warming, aromatic, and deeply satisfying, this homemade chai latte is built entirely from whole spices, fresh ginger, real milk, and honey ā every ingredient exactly what it says it is. That matters more than it might seem, because many store-bought chai concentrates and flavored syrups quietly rely on synthetic preservatives like BHA and BHT to extend shelf life. Making it from scratch sidesteps all of that without any compromise on flavor. Simmering cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, peppercorns, star anise, and ginger together first coaxes out deep, layered warmth before the tea even hits the pot. The result is a brew that's boldly spiced, gently sweet from honey, and rounded out with steamed whole milk. It's the kind of drink that feels like a small luxury on a slow morning ā and knowing exactly what went into your mug makes it taste even better.
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Learn more āIngredients
2 servings
- 1 cup water
- 4 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 whole cloves
- 4 whole black peppercorns
- 1 star anise
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, thinly sliced
- 2 tsp loose-leaf black tea or 2 black tea bags
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1ā2 tbsp honey, to taste
For serving
- ground cinnamon, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the water, cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, cloves, black peppercorns, star anise, and ginger in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes, until the liquid is fragrant and lightly amber.
- 2
Add the black tea (loose-leaf or bags) to the saucepan and steep for 3 minutes, until the brew is deep brown and strongly aromatic.
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