A refreshing, aromatic blend of traditional chai spices, bold black tea, creamy milk, and luxurious saffron. This iced latte is rich in flavor and cooling to the senses—perfect for warm days when you crave something both indulgent and comforting. The spices create a warming base, while the saffron adds a subtle floral note that takes this drink to the next level. Served over ice, it’s a gourmet-style iced beverage you can easily make at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the bold flavors of chai with a luxurious hint of saffron.

• Perfect for summer but can easily be served warm in cooler months.

• Customizable in terms of sweetness, milk choice, and spice intensity.

• Easy to prepare in advance and assemble when needed.

• Feels like a café-style drink without the price tag.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups water

• 1 cup milk (whole, skim, or plant-based alternatives like almond, oat, or soy)

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 4–6 whole cloves

• 4 cardamom pods, slightly crushed

• 4–5 black peppercorns

• ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• A small pinch of saffron strands (around 8–10 strands)

• 2 teaspoons black tea leaves (or 2 black tea bags)

• 4 teaspoons sugar (or sweetener of your choice; adjust to taste)

• Ice cubes

• Whipped cream (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Simmer the spices
   In a medium saucepan, add 2 cups of water along with the cinnamon sticks, cloves, crushed cardamom pods, and peppercorns. Bring it to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes to allow the spices to fully infuse the water.

2. Add saffron, tea, nutmeg, and sugar
   Turn off the heat. Add the nutmeg, sugar, saffron strands, and tea leaves or tea bags. Stir gently, cover the pan, and allow it to steep for 5 to 7 minutes.

3. Strain the tea
   After steeping, strain the mixture into a container or jug to remove all the spices and tea leaves. Let the brewed tea cool to room temperature. If serving later, refrigerate until chilled.

4. Assemble the latte
   For each serving, fill a glass with ice cubes. Add ¾ cup of the chilled chai base and top it with ¼ cup of cold milk. Stir gently to combine.

5. Garnish and serve
   Optionally, top the drink with a dollop of whipped cream. Serve immediately.

6. To make a hot version
   Use hot milk instead of cold milk and skip the ice. You can also froth the milk before adding for a creamy texture.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4 glasses

• Preparation time: 10 minutes

• Simmering and steeping time: 10–12 minutes

• Total time: 20–25 minutes

Variations

• Replace dairy milk with almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

• Adjust the sugar to your preference or use honey, maple syrup, or stevia.

• For a spicier latte, increase the amount of black pepper or add a slice of fresh ginger.

• Add a dash of vanilla extract for a sweet undertone.

• Skip whipped cream for a lighter drink.

• Enjoy the chai base on its own as an iced spiced tea without milk.

Storage/Reheating

• Store the spiced chai base (without milk) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Shake or stir well before using, especially if spices have settled at the bottom.

• Add milk and ice only when ready to serve.

• For a hot version, gently reheat the chai base and warm the milk separately before combining.

FAQs

What kind of tea should I use?

Use a strong black tea like Assam or Ceylon for a robust flavor that balances well with the spices and milk.

Can I use ground spices instead of whole?

Whole spices provide a more authentic, smooth flavor and are easier to strain out, but you can use small amounts of ground spices if necessary—just strain carefully.

Is saffron essential?

Saffron adds a unique, luxurious touch but isn’t mandatory. You can omit it and still enjoy a delicious iced chai latte.

How do I adjust the sweetness?

Start with 4 teaspoons of sugar and adjust up or down to your liking. You can also use alternative sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, the spiced chai base can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. Just add cold milk and ice before serving.

How can I make it stronger?

Steep the tea a bit longer or use more tea leaves for a bolder flavor. Just be careful not to over-steep, which can lead to bitterness.

What milk works best for frothing if I want a hot version?

Whole milk, oat milk, and barista-style almond milk froth well and add a creamy texture to the latte.

Can I skip ice?

Yes. Simply chill the tea base and milk, then combine and serve without ice. Or enjoy it hot.

Is whipped cream necessary?

No, it’s optional. It adds a creamy, indulgent finish but the latte is equally tasty without it.

Can kids drink this?

Yes, as long as you use a decaffeinated black tea or limit the caffeine content. Adjust the spices to make it milder if needed.

Conclusion

This Iced Chai Saffron Latte is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of traditional masala chai with a cool, luxurious twist. With its warming spices, aromatic saffron, and smooth milk, it’s both satisfying and refreshing. Whether you sip it on a hot afternoon or cozy up with the warm version, this drink delivers café-level flavor right from your kitchen.

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