How to Make Chai Latte with an Espresso Machine: Spice Up Your Coffee Routine

Do you love the flavor of chai and the buzz of espresso? Good news! You can combine the two with a chai latte recipe just like your favorite coffee shop. This will walk you through making a delicious chai latte and its caffeinated cousin, the dirty chai latte, at home with an espresso machine.

What is a Chai Latte

Chai tea originated in India and is a flavorful drink that blends strong spices like cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and ginger with black tea and milk. When turned into a chai latte it becomes an even more comforting and cozy drink. If you want a caffeine kick the dirty chai latte adds an espresso shot to the mix and becomes a whole new drink.

Making a chai latte at home can seem intimidating but with an espresso machine, it’s easy. In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know to make the perfect chai latte or dirty chai latte in your kitchen.

Equipment and Ingredients You’ll Need

Essential Equipment

To make a chai latte with your espresso machine you’ll need:

• Espresso machine with a steam wand: For frothing milk and pulling espresso shots.
• Milk frothing pitcher: To froth milk and get the perfect microfoam.
• Chai tea infuser or tea bags: For steeping your chai tea.
• Kettle (optional): If your espresso machine doesn’t have a hot water function.

Ingredients

Now let’s talk about the ingredients:

• Chai tea (loose-leaf or tea bags): The base of your chai latte.
• Milk (whole, almond, oat, etc.): Your choice of dairy or non-dairy.
• Optional spices (cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, fresh ginger): To customize your spice blend.
• Espresso shot (for dirty chai lattes): For the coffee kick.

You have your equipment and ingredients, now let’s get started.

How to Make Chai Latte

Step 1: Brew the Chai

Brew a strong chai tea concentrate. Steep your chai tea bags or loose-leaf tea in hot water for 5-7 minutes. If time is of the essence, pre-made chai concentrates can save you time without sacrificing flavor.

Step 2: Froth and Steam the Milk

Pour cold milk into your frothing pitcher to prepare steamed milk. Use the steam wand on your espresso machine to froth the milk until you get a smooth microfoam. Different milks froth differently so feel free to experiment to find your favorite.

Step 3: Pull the Espresso Shot

For the dirty chai latte you’ll need an espresso shot. Pull a single or double shot from your machine. The espresso adds depth and caffeine to your drink.

Step 4: Assemble the Ingredients

In a mug, pour your brewed chai concentrate, leaving room for the espresso and milk to create a chai tea latte. Add the espresso shot (if making a dirty chai), then top with the frothed milk. Stir gently to combine.

Chai Latte Tips

• Customize Your Spice Blend: If you’re making chai from scratch, try different spices like cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and ginger to your taste.
• Adjust Chai to Milk Ratio: Depending on how creamy or spicy you like your chai, modify the ratio of chai concentrate to milk. This is especially important when preparing chai tea lattes to achieve the perfect balance.
• Sweeten to Taste: Use honey, maple syrup, or sugar to sweeten your chai latte. For extra aroma, sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg on top.

Variations

Dirty Chai

Add one or two shots of espresso to your chai for an extra boost. Perfect for those mornings when you need a little extra oomph.

Iced Chai Latte

Brew your chai, espresso and milk as usual. Pour over ice for a cold version of the classic chai latte.

Masala Chai Latte

For a spicier version use freshly ground spices like black pepper, cinnamon, and cardamom. If you prefer just a tea, this one packs a punch.

Mistakes to Avoid

Overheating the Milk

Keep your milk below 155°F to avoid a burnt taste. Good frothing technique will give you a smooth and creamy texture.

Weak Chai Flavor

To avoid weak chai flavor brew a stronger chai concentrate by steeping the tea longer. Especially when adding more milk or espresso to your drink.

Disappointing Froth Quality

Getting the right microfoam is key. Practice frothing technique to get a smooth and silky milk.

The Last Drop

Making a chai latte or dirty chai latte at home with an espresso machine is easier than you thought. With the right gear, ingredients and technique you can have a delicious, aromatic drink just like the café. Try different spice blends, milks and ratios to find your favorite chai.

Ready to level up your home barista skills? Get brewing your perfect chai latte today and happy sipping!