Name: Coconut Chai
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Indian-inspired
Ingredients: 1 cup coconut milk; 1 cup water; 2 black tea bags (or 2 teaspoons loose leaf black tea); 2-3 tablespoons honey (or sweetener of choice); 2-3 cardamom pods; 2-3 whole cloves; 1 cinnamon stick; 1-2 slices fresh ginger

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Why You’ll Love Coconut Chai Recipe

The Coconut Chai is a perfect blend of bold, aromatic spices and smooth coconut creaminess. If you love chai, this version will offer a tropical upgrade that’s just as comforting but with an extra touch of sweetness and richness from the coconut. It’s quick to prepare, customizable to your sweetness preference, and can be enjoyed hot or iced. This drink is ideal for those who enjoy a creamy, spiced beverage with a unique twist!

Ingredients

1 cup water
1 cup coconut milk (canned)
1-2 tablespoons black tea leaves or 2-3 tea bags
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1-2 tablespoons honey or sweetener of choice
A pinch of black pepper

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

Directions

Prepare the Spice Mix: In a small saucepan, add the water, coconut milk, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
Add Tea: Once the mixture is simmering, add the black tea. Reduce the heat and let it steep for 5-7 minutes, depending on how strong you like your tea.
Sweeten: Remove from heat and stir in honey or your chosen sweetener. Adjust the sweetness to your liking.
Strain and Serve: Strain the chai to remove the tea leaves and spices, and serve it warm in your favorite mug. Optionally, top with coconut whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Iced Coconut Chai: For a refreshing twist, serve this chai over ice.
Non-Dairy: Use almond, oat, or soy milk if you prefer a non-dairy option.
Spice Variations: Feel free to experiment with other spices such as nutmeg or star anise for additional depth of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: This drink is best served fresh, but you can store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the chai gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a little extra coconut milk if needed to restore creaminess.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular milk instead of coconut milk?

Yes, you can substitute regular milk or any plant-based milk if you prefer, but the coconut milk gives it a signature tropical flavor.

2. Can I make this chai decaffeinated?

Absolutely! Use decaffeinated black tea for a caffeine-free version.

3. How sweet should I make it?

The sweetness depends on your taste. Start with a tablespoon of honey and adjust from there.

4. Can I use store-bought chai spice mix?

Yes, if you have a chai spice mix, feel free to use it instead of individual spices.

5. Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground ginger?

Yes, you can use fresh ginger, about a teaspoon of finely grated ginger, in place of ground ginger.

6. How long should I steep the tea?

For a more intense flavor, steep the tea for 7-8 minutes. For a lighter chai, steep for 5 minutes.

7. Can I add coconut whipped cream on top?

Yes, coconut whipped cream would be a delicious and indulgent topping for this drink.

8. Can I make this chai iced?

Yes, just brew the chai, let it cool, and pour over ice for a refreshing iced coconut chai.

9. What kind of tea should I use for chai?

Traditional chai is made with strong black tea, such as Assam or Darjeeling, for the best flavor.

10. Can I double this recipe for more servings?

Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to make more servings.

Conclusion

Coconut Chai is a flavorful, creamy twist on the classic chai tea that’s sure to become a favorite in your drink rotation. Whether enjoyed hot or iced, it’s perfect for cozy moments or when you need a refreshing, tropical treat. It’s easy to make, highly customizable, and adds a rich, spiced flavor to your day!

Coconut Chai

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This Creamy Coconut Chai recipe brings a tropical twist to your classic chai tea experience. The combination of rich coconut milk and traditional chai spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves offers a warm, comforting beverage perfect for chilly days or relaxing evenings.