This Iced Vanilla Chai Latte is a deliciously spiced, chilled twist on the traditional Indian chai. It’s bold, refreshing, creamy, and perfectly sweetened with honey and vanilla. Blending aromatic spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves with black tea and frothed milk, this drink is perfect for hot summer days or whenever you crave a cozy flavor in a cool form. Whether you’re sipping it solo or serving it to guests, it’s a flavorful pick-me-up that feels both comforting and sophisticated.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients (Makes 2 servings)

• 2 cups water

• 2 black tea bags (preferably Assam or Darjeeling)

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• ½ tsp ground cardamom

• ¼ tsp ground cloves

• ¼ tsp ground ginger

• 1 vanilla bean (split and scraped) or 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

• 2 tbsp honey (or to taste)

• 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based like almond or oat)

• Ice cubes

• Optional garnish: cinnamon, vanilla pods, star anise

Directions

1. Brew the Chai: In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add tea bags, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and ginger. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.

2. Add Vanilla & Sweeten: Remove from heat. Add vanilla bean (seeds and pod) or vanilla extract. Stir in honey to taste.

3. Cool the Chai: Remove tea bags and vanilla pod. Let cool to room temperature or chill quickly by placing the pot in an ice water bath.

4. Froth the Milk: In a separate container, froth your milk using a milk frother or shake it in a tightly sealed jar. You can also whisk it after slightly warming.

5. Assemble: Fill two glasses with ice cubes. Pour the cooled chai tea into the glasses, filling about ⅔ of the way.

6. Add Milk: Slowly pour the frothed milk over the chai for a swirling effect.

7. Garnish & Serve: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon, a piece of vanilla pod, or a star anise on top. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrients (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 120 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 20g

• Protein: 2g

• Fat: 3g

• Sugar: 17g

• Caffeine: ~40–50mg

• Vitamin C: ~1mg

• Calcium: ~100mg

• Iron: ~0.5mg

The Best of Both Worlds: Spicy and Sweet

Chai is known for its aromatic spice blend, often including cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves. When paired with vanilla and honey, those bold spices mellow into a rich and well-rounded flavor profile that feels luxurious and balanced. The sweetness of honey enhances the natural warmth of the spices, while vanilla adds a smooth, creamy depth that ties it all together. This harmonious blend makes the Iced Vanilla Chai Latte appealing to both chai lovers and those new to spiced teas.

Perfect for Warm Weather

While traditional chai is typically served hot, this iced version is the ultimate refreshment on sunny days. The spices are invigorating without being overpowering, and when served over ice with chilled milk, the result is light and cooling. It’s an ideal way to enjoy the flavors of fall or winter without overheating in the summer. Whether you’re lounging in the backyard or working from home, this drink adds a touch of luxury to your day without requiring a trip to a café.

A Healthier Alternative to Store-Bought Lattes

Many store-bought or coffee shop versions of iced chai lattes come loaded with sugar and artificial flavorings. Making your own Iced Vanilla Chai Latte at home gives you full control over what goes into your cup. You can sweeten it naturally with honey, adjust the level of spice to your liking, and choose between dairy or plant-based milk. The use of whole spices or high-quality ground spices ensures you’re getting the real deal, not a concentrated syrup. It’s a cleaner, healthier option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.

Customizable to Suit Your Taste

The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. Prefer it stronger? Steep your tea longer or add an extra tea bag. Want more sweetness? A little more honey will do the trick. If you’re a fan of bold spice, increase the amounts of cinnamon or ginger. Looking for a vegan version? Use maple syrup instead of honey and froth up some oat milk or almond milk for a creamy finish. This drink is incredibly easy to personalize, making it perfect for experimenting with until you find your perfect blend.

Ideal for Entertaining and Impressive Presentations

If you’re hosting brunch or a summer gathering, the Iced Vanilla Chai Latte is a gorgeous and flavorful beverage to serve. The layered effect of dark spiced tea with swirling white milk creates a striking visual that looks as good as it tastes. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon, a star anise, or a vanilla pod for added charm and sophistication. It’s a drink that impresses guests while still being incredibly easy to prepare ahead of time.

Rooted in Tradition, Elevated with Vanilla

This drink takes inspiration from masala chai, a centuries-old Indian tea tradition that centers on the meditative act of steeping black tea with warming spices and milk. The Iced Vanilla Chai Latte honors that tradition while adding a contemporary twist with the addition of vanilla and cold preparation. Vanilla not only balances the bolder spices but also adds a velvety smoothness that elevates the drink from simple iced tea to a specialty latte. It’s a modern nod to a timeless recipe, appealing to traditionalists and trendsetters alike.

Caffeine with a Calming Edge

With around 40 to 50 milligrams of caffeine per serving, this iced latte provides a gentle pick-me-up—less than a typical cup of coffee but enough to help you power through your day. The spices, especially ginger and cardamom, offer natural digestion-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties, while the warmth of cinnamon helps regulate blood sugar levels. So while you’re sipping on something that feels indulgent, you’re also nourishing your body with ingredients that bring wellness benefits beyond hydration.

Budget-Friendly and Made From Pantry Staples

You don’t need fancy equipment or specialty ingredients to make this latte. Most of the spices are common pantry staples, and the tea bags can be found at any grocery store. Vanilla extract and honey add depth without breaking the bank, and the milk choice is entirely up to you and your dietary needs. Compared to the cost of café drinks, this homemade version is incredibly affordable, allowing you to enjoy a luxurious beverage anytime, without the extra cost or additives.

Perfect for Meal Prep or Busy Mornings

The chai tea base can be brewed in advance and stored in the fridge for several days. This makes it perfect for prepping at the beginning of the week, so you have your favorite iced latte ready whenever you want it. Simply pour over ice and add frothed milk when you’re ready to enjoy. It’s also a great solution for those rushed mornings when you want something delicious and energizing but don’t have time for a full breakfast or trip to the coffee shop.

Conclusion

The Iced Vanilla Chai Latte is a beautifully spiced, naturally sweetened drink that brings together the comfort of chai with the refreshment of an iced beverage. Its creamy texture, bold flavor, and striking presentation make it a standout choice for anyone seeking a more exciting alternative to traditional coffee or sugary iced drinks. Whether you enjoy it as a morning ritual, an afternoon energy boost, or a weekend treat, this latte proves that you don’t need to sacrifice flavor or quality for convenience. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again—not just for the taste, but for the sense of calm, creativity, and comfort it brings to every sip.