Saffron chai latte brings a golden infusion to a warming blend of black tea, milk, cardamom and cinnamon. Optional ginger adds a little extra spice, while a modest sweetener keeps the flavours balanced.
Makes 2 cups · Saffron infuses for about 10 minutes · Tea and spices simmer for 5 minutes, followed by gentle warming with milk · Contains caffeine.
Ingredients for 2 cups
- 250 ml milk or a plant-based alternative
- 200 ml water, plus 2 tablespoons for the saffron infusion
- 1 teaspoon loose black tea
- 1 small pinch of saffron threads
- ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1 pinch of ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar, to taste
- Optional: 1 small slice of fresh ginger
How to make saffron chai latte
- Infuse the saffron. Steep the threads in 2 tablespoons of warm water for about 10 minutes.
- Prepare the chai. Put the 200 ml water, black tea, cardamom, cinnamon and optional ginger in a pan. Simmer gently for about 5 minutes.
- Add milk. Pour in the milk and warm gently for another 3 minutes, stirring and watching the pan so it does not boil over.
- Finish. Add the saffron infusion and sweetener, then stir until combined.
- Strain and serve. Pour through a fine sieve into two cups and serve at a comfortable temperature.
Tips and variations
Adjust the black tea’s strength to taste: longer cooking can make it more assertive. Use an unsweetened plant drink if you want control over the added sweetness.
For a vegan version, choose a suitable plant drink and sugar rather than honey. The spices provide warmth of flavour; the recipe is an enjoyable drink rather than a tested mood treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Does it contain caffeine?
Yes. This version uses black tea. For a drink without tea leaves, try plain saffron milk or saffron tea.
Can I make a foamy top?
You can froth a little of the warm milk separately and spoon it on top, choosing a milk or plant drink that froths well.
Which allergens should I check?
Dairy milk contains milk allergens. Plant drinks may contain soy, nuts or other allergens; check labels.
More saffron drinks
Try saffron latte, saffron milk with honey or plain saffron tea. Explore the Saffron Academy, or discover Saffrona saffron.