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–+ servings

Chai Latte Iced Cocktail Recipe

Chai Latte Iced Cocktail Recipe
I combine bold chai flavor with cream, a touch of sweetness, and a cool, refreshing finish for this drink. It’s perfect when I want something smooth, spicy, and not too strong.
John
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Serving Size 1

Equipment

  • Cocktail shaker: I use this to mix the drink well and chill it evenly.
  • Measuring jigger or small measuring cup: Accurate measurements keep the flavors balanced.
  • Fine mesh strainer: This helps catch any ice or spice bits before pouring.
  • Tall glass (like a highball or Collins glass): It fits the full cocktail and plenty of ice.
  • Long spoon or cocktail stirrer: I mix in extra ice or cream at the end if needed.
  • Ice cubes: These are important to keep my drink cold and refreshing.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz chai tea concentrate unsweetened or lightly sweetened
  • 1 oz vodka I use plain or vanilla vodka
  • 1 oz coffee liqueur like Kahlúa
  • 2 oz milk or cream whole milk, oat milk, or half & half all work well
  • 1/2 oz simple syrup adjust to taste, especially if chai is unsweetened
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon plus more for garnish
  • Ice cubes

Instructions

  • Fill the cocktail shaker halfway with ice.
  • Pour in chai concentrate, vodka, coffee liqueur, milk or cream, and simple syrup.
  • Add ground cinnamon for extra spice.
  • Shake briskly for about 15 seconds until the shaker feels cold.
  • Strain into a tall glass filled with ice.
  • Dust a little ground cinnamon over the top for flavor and looks.
  • If desired, add a star anise or cinnamon stick for garnish.
  • Stir once or twice with a long spoon before drinking.

Notes

I find that using chilled ingredients keeps the drink from getting watered down too quickly. If I want it sweeter, I add a bit more simple syrup.
I also like to use oat milk for a dairy-free version—it's creamy and blends well with chai and spice. To make the drink stronger, I sometimes use spiced rum in place of vodka.
If I want a lighter cocktail, I use more milk or serve the finished drink over extra ice. The garnish is optional, but adding a cinnamon stick or star anise makes the cocktail look appealing and gives off extra aroma.
For more spice, I sometimes grate a bit of fresh nutmeg or ginger on top right before serving. That little extra can really wake up the flavors.