Spiced Apple Chai
A comforting blend of aromatic chai spices and sweet apple in a warming beverage
Welcome to the cozy world of Spiced Apple Chai, a delightful fusion of traditional Indian chai and classic American apple pie flavors. This heartwarming beverage originated from the desire to combine the best of both cultures, creating a unique drink that's perfect for chilly autumn evenings.
Our recipe uses a blend of black tea, fresh apple juice, and a carefully balanced mix of warming spices. The key to this drink's rich flavor lies in simmering the ingredients together, allowing the spices to infuse fully into the liquid. We recommend using a crisp, tart apple variety like Granny Smith for the best flavor contrast with the sweet spices.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with this Spiced Apple Chai! Here's why you'll adore it:
- Perfect autumn comfort: The combination of chai spices and apple creates the ultimate cozy drink
- Customizable sweetness: Easily adjust the sweetness to your liking
- Aromatic experience: The simmering process fills your home with an irresistible fragrance
- Versatile serving options: Enjoy it hot or over ice for a refreshing twist
- Health benefits: Packed with antioxidants from both tea and spices
Spiced Apple Chai
A comforting blend of aromatic chai spices and sweet apple in a warming beverage
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Strainer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mugs for serving
Ingredients
- 4 cups water
- 2 black tea bags
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 whole cloves
- 4 cardamom pods, lightly crushed
- 1 star anise
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, sliced
- 2 cups fresh apple juice
- 2 tablespoons honey (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Apple slices and ground cinnamon for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine water, tea bags, cinnamon sticks, cloves, cardamom pods, star anise, and ginger. Bring to a boil over high heat.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes to allow the spices to infuse.
- Remove from heat and discard the tea bags. Strain the liquid to remove the spices.
- Return the spiced tea to the saucepan and add apple juice and honey. Stir to combine.
- Add milk and vanilla extract. Heat gently over medium-low heat until hot, but do not boil.
- Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
- Pour into mugs and garnish with apple slices and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.
- Serve hot and enjoy your Spiced Apple Chai!