Save It Last summer I walked into my kitchen at 3 PM craving something that felt like a treat but also like comfort. The air conditioner was struggling and I remembered a tiny café in Pune that served iced chai with this impossibly creamy foam on top. I decided to recreate it right then with whatever I had in my spice drawer.
My roommate walked in mid-experiment asking why I was furiously whipping cream by hand. She tried the first glass and immediately demanded I make another one. Now it is our Friday afternoon ritual even when it is raining outside.
Ingredients
- Water: Use filtered water because the spices need a clean canvas to shine through
- Black tea bags: Regular breakfast tea works beautifully but Assam adds that authentic depth
- Cinnamon stick: Whole cinnamon infuses differently than ground giving you those warm woody undertones
- Whole cloves: Just four adds the perfect amount of warmth without overpowering everything else
- Green cardamom pods: Crush them lightly with the back of a spoon to release their floral aroma
- Black peppercorns: They provide a subtle kick that makes all the other spices pop
- Fresh ginger: Slice it thin so the flavor infuses evenly into the concentrate
- Honey or maple syrup: Sweeten while the tea is still warm so it dissolves completely
- Cold heavy cream: The higher fat content creates that luxurious texture you want in cold foam
- Sugar or honey: Dissolve it thoroughly so your foam stays smooth and velvety
- Vanilla extract: Pure vanilla adds a comforting sweetness that balances the bold spices
- Ice cubes: Fill your glasses generously because no one wants lukewarm chai
- Ground cinnamon: A light dusting on top makes it look like something you would order out
Instructions
- Brew the spiced tea concentrate:
- Bring water to a gentle boil then add tea bags and all your whole spices. Let it simmer for five minutes so the flavors meld together.
- Steep and sweeten:
- Remove from heat and let the spices hang out for another five minutes before straining. Stir in your sweetener while everything is still warm then chill completely.
- Whip the cold foam:
- Combine cold cream with sugar and vanilla using a frother or whisk. Watch for soft peaks forming because you want it fluffy not stiff.
- Build your drinks:
- Fill tall glasses with ice then pour the chilled chai until they are two thirds full. Leave room for that gorgeous foam on top.
- Add the finishing touch:
- Spoon the foam over each glass generously letting it cascade down the sides. Dust with cinnamon if you are feeling fancy and serve right away.
Save It This drink became my go-to when friends visit because it looks impressive but takes zero actual skill. Last month my cousin asked for the recipe before she even finished her first glass.
Making It Dairy Free
Oat cream whips up surprisingly well and still gives you that pillowy texture you are looking for. Coconut cream works too but it will add a subtle tropical note to the finished drink.
Adjusting the Spice Level
If you love heat add an extra peppercorn or two during the brewing step. For a gentler experience stick to just cinnamon and cardamom which provide warmth without the bite.
Serving Suggestions
This chai shines alongside something buttery and spiced to echo those same warm flavors. Keep these ideas in mind for your next serving session.
- Pair with almond biscotti for dunking
- Serve alongside spiced butter cookies
- Add a splash of milk before the foam for extra creaminess
Save It There is something about watching that foam settle into the tea that makes even a regular Tuesday feel special. Enjoy every sip.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → How do I make the cold foam?
Whip cold heavy cream with sugar or honey and vanilla extract until thick and foamy but not stiff. Use a whisk or milk frother for best results.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute cold heavy cream with coconut or oat cream to create a dairy-free foam while maintaining texture and flavor.
- → What spices are used in the chai concentrate?
Cinnamon, cloves, green cardamom pods, black peppercorns, and fresh ginger provide a warm, aromatic spice blend.
- → How do I adjust the sweetness?
Sweetness can be modified by adding more or less honey or maple syrup to suit personal taste.
- → Are there tips for serving this drink?
Serve over ice with the cold foam spooned on top. Optionally dust with ground cinnamon for added aroma and presentation.
- → Can I add milk or alternatives?
Yes, adding a splash of milk or a milk alternative before topping with foam creates a creamier texture and rich taste.