Iced Chai Tea with Cold Foam (Print Version)

Aromatic spiced chai concentrate served over ice and topped with silky cold foam for a refreshing beverage.

# What You Need:

→ Chai Concentrate

01 - 1 cup strong brewed chai tea (from loose leaf or 2 chai tea bags)
02 - 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
03 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Cold Foam

04 - 1/2 cup cold whole milk (or milk of choice)
05 - 1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
06 - 1 teaspoon powdered sugar

→ Assembly

07 - 1 cup ice cubes
08 - Ground cinnamon, for garnish

# How To Make:

01 - Brew the chai tea strong by steeping the tea bags or loose-leaf chai in hot water for 5 minutes. Stir in honey (or maple syrup) and vanilla extract. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until cold.
02 - In a small bowl or frothing pitcher, combine cold milk, heavy cream (if using), and powdered sugar. Froth with a handheld milk frother or vigorously shake in a sealed jar until thick and foamy.
03 - Fill two glasses with ice cubes. Divide the chilled chai concentrate evenly between the glasses.
04 - Gently spoon or pour the cold foam over the iced chai.
05 - Garnish with a light dusting of ground cinnamon. Serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It gives you that cafe moment at home without the line or the price tag.
  • The cold foam adds a creamy sweetness that mellows the spice in the most satisfying way.
  • You can make the chai base ahead and froth the foam in under a minute when the craving hits.
02 -
  • If your foam deflates quickly, your milk was too warm or you didn't froth it long enough, it needs to be cold and agitated until it's thick.
  • Don't skip chilling the chai concentrate or the ice will melt too fast and water down the whole drink.
  • A pinch of cardamom or ginger stirred into the concentrate before chilling makes the spice way more complex and interesting.
03 -
  • Use a clear glass so you can see the layers of chai and foam, it makes the drink feel more impressive even though it's so simple.
  • If you don't have a frother, pour the milk and sugar into a mason jar, seal it tight, and shake it hard for 30 seconds until it's thick and foamy.
  • Taste the chai concentrate before you chill it and adjust the sweetness then, it's harder to fix once it's cold and assembled.
Go Back