If you're a fan of hot chocolate and chai tea, this Chai Hot Chocolate is the perfect drink for you. Combining the creamy richness of hot chocolate with the warming spices of chai, this beverage is a comforting and indulgent treat for chilly days
cozy evenings, or anytime you need a little pick-me-up. It's a fusion of flavors that brings together the best of two beloved drinks, making it perfect for holiday gatherings, self-care moments, or any time you crave a delicious twist on a classic.
Chai hot chocolate is a wonderful blend of robust spices and rich cocoa. Traditional chai tea is made with black tea, milk, and a mixture of spices like cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, and black pepper.
When combined with the deep, smooth taste of chocolate, these spices create a drink that's both exotic and familiar, sweet and spicy. It's the best of both worlds in a single cup!
– 2 cups whole milk (or any milk of your choice): Whole milk provides creaminess, but you can use almond, oat, or soy milk for a dairy-free option. – 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder: The foundation of the hot chocolate, delivering rich chocolate flavor. – 2 tablespoons sugar (or sweetener of choice): Sweetens the hot chocolate to balance the spices.
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a layer of warmth and enhances the flavors. – 1-2 chai tea bags (or 1 tablespoon loose chai tea): The key ingredient that brings the signature chai spice flavor. – 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and a slight sweetness. – 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: Provides a subtle spiciness.
– Brew the Chai Base: In a small saucepan, bring the milk to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Add the chai tea bags (or loose chai tea in a tea infuser) and let them steep in the hot milk for about 5-7 minutes, or until the milk is infused with the chai flavors. Remove the tea bags or strain out the loose tea leaves.
Add Spices and Chocolate: To the chai-infused milk, whisk in the cocoa powder, sugar, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, and a pinch of black pepper. Continue to whisk over medium heat until the cocoa powder is fully dissolved and the milk is warmed through but not boiling.
Enhance with Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract, which will add depth and a sweet aroma to the drink. Taste and adjust the sweetness or spice levels if needed
Serve Hot and Garnish: Pour the chai hot chocolate into mugs. Top with whipped cream or marshmallows for an extra indulgent touch. Garnish with a cinnamon stick for stirring and an added aromatic boost.
Enjoy: Sip and savor the rich, spicy, and chocolatey goodness that’s sure to warm you up from the inside out!