This apple chai latte is a cozy, spiced drink that blends the warmth of chai tea with the crisp sweetness of apples. It’s like sipping fall in a cup. I love making it as an afternoon pick-me-up or as a caffeine-free option to enjoy on chilly mornings when I want something flavorful and comforting.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love how the spicy notes of chai—like cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom—pair perfectly with apple juice to create a drink that’s both soothing and vibrant. It feels like a seasonal treat, but it’s so easy to whip up at home. Whether I want a dairy-free version, a caffeine-free nightcap, or a warm, aromatic hug in a mug, this latte hits the spot every time.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Chai tea bags (or loose leaf chai)
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Apple juice or apple cider
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Milk (dairy or non-dairy like oat, almond, or soy)
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Ground cinnamon
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Vanilla extract
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Optional: sweetener like maple syrup or honey
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Optional: whipped cream and apple slices for topping
Directions
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I start by brewing a strong cup of chai tea using two tea bags and about half a cup of boiling water. I let it steep for 5–7 minutes for maximum flavor.
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In a small saucepan, I combine the apple juice and milk, then heat gently over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
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I stir in the brewed chai, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. If I want it sweeter, I add a little maple syrup or honey.
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Once everything is heated through, I use a milk frother or whisk to create a bit of foam before pouring it into my mug.
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I top it with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon—or even a thin apple slice—for a festive touch.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 1 large or 2 small servings. It takes about 10 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy homemade latte whenever I need something warm and seasonal.
Variations
When I want a stronger apple flavor, I use spiced apple cider instead of plain juice. For a vegan version, I use almond milk and maple syrup. I’ve also added a shot of espresso or brewed coffee for a dirty chai twist. A pinch of nutmeg or star anise adds extra depth if I’m in the mood for bolder spice.
storage/reheating
If I have leftovers, I store them in the fridge for up to 2 days in a sealed jar. When reheating, I warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave and give it a good stir. I don’t recommend freezing it, since the texture changes when thawed.
FAQs
Can I make this caffeine-free?
Yes, I use decaf chai or herbal chai blends when I want to keep it caffeine-free. It’s still just as flavorful.
What kind of apple juice works best?
I prefer fresh-pressed or unfiltered apple juice for the best taste. It gives the latte a richer, more natural apple flavor.
Can I serve this iced?
Definitely. I let the mixture cool and pour it over ice. It’s especially refreshing with a splash of vanilla almond milk and a cinnamon stick for garnish.
Can I make a large batch?
Yes, I scale the ingredients up and keep it warm in a slow cooker for gatherings. It’s a cozy drink for fall brunches or holiday mornings.
Do I have to froth the milk?
Not at all. I like the texture it adds, but I’ve also made it without frothing and it’s still delicious—just smooth and creamy.
Conclusion
Apple chai latte is one of my favorite warm drinks to make when I want something a little different from the usual coffee or tea. It’s sweet, spicy, and full of cozy autumn flavor. Whether I’m sipping it by the window on a crisp day or making a batch for friends, this drink always makes the moment feel a little more special.
Print
Apple Chai Latte
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 large or 2 small servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Apple Chai Latte is a cozy, spiced drink that blends the warmth of chai with the crisp sweetness of apple juice or cider. Creamy, aromatic, and full of fall flavors, it’s the perfect seasonal pick-me-up for chilly mornings or relaxing evenings.
Ingredients
2 chai tea bags (or 2 teaspoons loose leaf chai)
1/2 cup boiling water
1/2 cup apple juice or apple cider
1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy: oat, almond, soy)
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey (to sweeten)
Optional: whipped cream and apple slices for garnish
Instructions
- Brew a strong chai tea using 2 tea bags and 1/2 cup boiling water. Steep 5–7 minutes.
- In a small saucepan, combine apple juice and milk. Heat gently over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
- Stir in the brewed chai, cinnamon, vanilla, and sweetener if using. Mix well.
- Froth with a milk frother or whisk to create foam (optional).
- Pour into a mug and top with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or an apple slice if desired.
Notes
For stronger apple flavor, use spiced apple cider instead of juice.
Make it vegan with almond or oat milk and maple syrup.
Add a shot of espresso for a dirty chai twist.
Try adding nutmeg or star anise for deeper spice notes.
Serve iced by cooling the mixture and pouring over ice.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
