Vanilla Chai Cooler Mocktail Recipe

I love cooling off with a sweet and spicy drink, and this Vanilla Chai Cooler Mocktail is honestly one of my favorites for hot days.

There’s something about having all those warm chai spices, but in a chilled, alcohol-free way—it just feels right, especially when I’m sharing with family or friends.

It’s simple to make at home and really feels like a treat, even though it doesn’t take much effort at all.

When I want something refreshing but not just the usual lemonade or iced tea, I end up reaching for these ingredients in my kitchen.

The mix of vanilla, chai tea, and a splash of milk makes this mocktail smooth and actually pretty satisfying.

If you’re looking for a new non-alcoholic drink to shake things up this season, maybe give this one a shot.

Vanilla Chai Cooler Mocktail Recipe

This Vanilla Chai Cooler is a super easy, non-alcoholic drink. I use creamy coconut milk, spicy chai tea, and a bit of vanilla syrup to make it smooth and cool.

The recipe’s not complicated, and you just need some basic kitchen stuff. I like to use a whisk to make sure everything blends together nicely.

A fine mesh strainer is handy to keep out any bits from the chai or spices. I always go for a tall glass because I like seeing the swirls in the drink.

If I want it extra cold, I’ll pop some fresh ice cubes in right before serving.

Equipment

• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small saucepan
• Whisk
• Fine mesh strainer
• Pitcher or large jar
• Tall glass (for serving)
• Stirring spoon
• Ice cube tray

Ingredients

• 2 cups water
• 2 chai tea bags
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 cup coconut milk or almond milk
• 2 tablespoons vanilla syrup
• 1 tablespoon chai spice (or a mix of ground cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves)
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or sweetener of choice (optional)
• Ice cubes
• Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for garnish (optional)

I usually go for coconut milk because it makes things creamier, but almond milk works too. The cinnamon stick brings a warm, spicy kick. Sometimes, if I’m in the mood for a little more sweetness, I’ll add some maple syrup.

Instructions

• Heat up the water in a saucepan until it’s just about to boil.
• Pour the hot water over the tea bags and cinnamon stick in a pitcher. Let it steep for around 5 minutes.
• Take out the tea bags and cinnamon stick.
• Stir in the chai spice until it’s dissolved.
• Add the coconut or almond milk and vanilla syrup.
• Whisk everything together so it’s nice and smooth.
• Let the mix cool down to room temperature.
• Fill a glass with ice cubes.
• Pour the cooled chai mixture over the ice.
• If you like, sprinkle some ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top.
• Serve right away and enjoy that creamy, refreshing taste.

I like to whisk the mix again before pouring, just to keep the flavors even. That way, the drink doesn’t separate and every sip tastes just right.

Notes

Sometimes I swap coconut milk for almond milk, just to switch up the texture. If I’m out of store-bought chai spice, I’ll make my own with cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and a little clove.

For an extra cold drink, I’ll keep all the ingredients in the fridge ahead of time. Vanilla syrup adds a soft sweetness, but honestly, honey or maple syrup work great too.

I love to garnish with a dusting of cinnamon, though grated nutmeg is nice if you want to mix it up. Skipping the sweetener makes it lighter, but if you want more warmth, just add extra spices.

I usually give it a stir before each sip so the flavors stay blended.

Tasting Notes

Taking that first sip, the smooth vanilla really pops out. It’s not overpowering or anything, just kind of weaves in with the chai spices.

The chai itself brings in cinnamon, cardamom, and a touch of ginger. These spices somehow make the mocktail feel cozy, yet still pretty refreshing.

There’s a bit of sweetness, though it’s not too much. Because it’s served cold, it stays crisp and super easy to drink—honestly, perfect if the weather’s warm.

Each sip finishes cool. I keep picking up that creamy vanilla and bold chai, and they’re balanced in a way that just works.

If you’re into drinks that are both spicy and sweet, this mocktail really does bring those together. The aftertaste is clean, with just a little lingering spice—kind of makes you want to go back for more.

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