Vegan Spiced Chai Latte with Coconut Whipped Cream
Warming, deeply aromatic, and genuinely indulgent, this spiced chai latte is the kind of drink that makes a slow morning feel like a real occasion. Whole cardamom pods, a cinnamon stick, cloves, black peppercorns, and fresh ginger are simmered together until the kitchen smells absolutely incredible, then black tea is steeped right into that fragrant base for a brew that's bold and layered. Plant-based milk and maple syrup round everything out into something creamy and naturally sweet without a drop of dairy or honey in sight. The real showstopper is the coconut whipped cream on top — chilled overnight so the fat separates and whips up into soft, billowy peaks that slowly melt into the hot chai below. It's one of those details that takes about three minutes of effort but makes the whole drink feel café-worthy. This recipe makes two generous mugs, so it's perfect for sharing or for treating yourself twice. A dusting of ground cinnamon over the top is optional, but honestly, don't skip it.
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Learn more →Ingredients
2 servings
For the coconut whipped cream
- 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk, refrigerated overnight
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
For the chai
- 4 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 whole cloves
- ¼ tsp black peppercorns
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 cup water
- 2 black tea bags
- 1 ½ cups plant-based milk
- 2 tbsp maple syrup, or more to taste
For serving
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- 1
The night before (or at least 8 hours ahead), place the unopened can of full-fat coconut milk in the refrigerator so the cream separates and solidifies at the top.
- 2
Open the chilled coconut milk can without shaking it. Scoop the thick, solidified cream from the top into a medium bowl, leaving the watery liquid behind. Add 1 tbsp maple syrup and the vanilla extract, then beat with a hand mixer on medium-high speed until the cream holds soft, billowy peaks, about 2–3 minutes. Refrigerate until ready to use.
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