There’s something truly magical about the blend of warm spices and rich chocolate in a cup of tea. This Chocolate Chai Tea Recipe (Vegan) is a deliciously comforting beverage that combines the bold flavors of traditional chai with the indulgent essence of cocoa.
Perfect for chilly mornings or relaxing afternoons, this vegan version uses plant-based milk to create a creamy texture without compromising on taste. Whether you’re a chai enthusiast or a chocolate lover, this recipe will soon become your go-to treat that soothes your soul and delights your taste buds.
Not only is it simple to make, but it also offers a wonderful alternative to coffee or hot chocolate with a spicy twist. Plus, it’s free from dairy and refined sugars, making it a healthful choice for many.
Dive into this cozy drink and discover how easy it is to bring a café-worthy chocolate chai experience right into your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan chocolate chai tea recipe is a fantastic fusion of two beloved flavors that many crave: the spicy warmth of chai and the smooth richness of chocolate. It’s naturally sweetened and made without any animal products, making it suitable for vegans and those with lactose intolerance.
Additionally, it’s highly customizable — you can adjust the spice level, sweetness, and chocolate intensity to suit your preference. The use of whole spices ensures a fresh, aromatic experience, while the cocoa powder adds a delightful depth without overpowering the chai’s signature flavors.
Best of all, this tea is quick to prepare and requires just a handful of pantry staples and simple equipment, making it accessible for even busy weeknights or lazy weekend mornings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk of choice)
- 1 cup water
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder (preferably unsweetened)
- 1 tbsp black tea leaves or 2 black tea bags
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 green cardamom pods, slightly crushed
- 4 whole cloves
- 1 tsp ground ginger or 1-inch fresh ginger slice
- 1 star anise (optional)
- 1-2 tbsp maple syrup or agave nectar (adjust for sweetness)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of black pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Fine mesh strainer or tea infuser
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Wooden spoon or whisk
- Mug or teapot for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the spice base: In a medium saucepan, combine the water, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, ginger, star anise, and black pepper. Bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- Simmer the spices: Reduce heat and allow the spices to simmer for about 10 minutes. This step helps release their rich aromas and flavors.
- Add tea and cocoa: Add the black tea leaves or tea bags along with the cocoa powder. Whisk gently to dissolve the cocoa powder evenly.
- Pour in plant-based milk: Stir in the almond milk and increase the heat slightly until the mixture is hot but not boiling. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Sweeten and flavor: Remove from heat and stir in the maple syrup (or agave nectar) and vanilla extract. Taste and adjust sweetness or spices as needed.
- Strain the tea: Using a fine mesh strainer, pour the tea into your serving mugs to remove the spices and tea leaves.
- Serve warm: Enjoy your creamy, spicy, and chocolatey chai tea immediately for the best flavor and warmth.
Tips & Variations
For a stronger chocolate flavor, add a small piece of vegan dark chocolate during simmering and stir until melted.
Feel free to substitute almond milk with oat, soy, or coconut milk depending on your preference. Each will give a slightly different creaminess and flavor background.
If you like your chai extra spicy, increase the amount of black pepper or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a unique twist. For a chilled version, let the tea cool and serve it over ice with a splash of plant-based milk.
To make this recipe sugar-free, omit the maple syrup or agave and use a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit, adjusting according to taste.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount Per Serving (1 cup) |
---|---|
Calories | 90 |
Fat | 3g |
Saturated Fat | 0.3g |
Carbohydrates | 15g |
Sugar | 10g (from maple syrup) |
Protein | 1g |
Fiber | 2g |
Caffeine | 30-50 mg (from black tea) |
Serving Suggestions
This chocolate chai tea is a wonderful companion to a variety of snacks and meals. It pairs beautifully with vegan baked goods like cinnamon rolls, almond biscotti, or a slice of spiced pumpkin bread.
For a cozy afternoon, serve alongside a light, fresh salad or a warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts and fruits. If you want to explore more vegan-friendly treats, check out our Pecan Crackers Recipe or the delightful Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe for a sweet finish.
Conclusion
This vegan chocolate chai tea is more than just a drink; it’s a comforting ritual that brings warmth and joy to your day. The harmonious blend of spices with rich cocoa and creamy plant milk creates a luxurious cup that feels both indulgent and nourishing.
Whether you’re seeking a morning pick-me-up or a soothing evening treat, this recipe offers an easy, wholesome solution.
Experiment with the spices and sweetness to make it uniquely yours, and enjoy the health benefits and cozy vibes every time you sip. Don’t forget to explore other delicious recipes like the Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe or the hearty Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe to round out your culinary adventures.
Cheers to flavorful, vegan-friendly delights!
📖 Recipe Card: Chocolate Chai Tea Recipe Vegan
Description: A rich and warming vegan chocolate chai tea combining aromatic spices with creamy plant-based milk. Perfect for cozy afternoons or as a comforting treat.
Prep Time: PT5M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT20M
Servings: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups almond milk
- 1 cup water
- 2 black tea bags
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 green cardamom pods, crushed
- 4 whole cloves
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced
- 1 star anise
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine water, cinnamon stick, cardamom, cloves, ginger, and star anise.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes to infuse the spices.
- Add the black tea bags and steep for 3 minutes.
- Remove tea bags and spices using a strainer.
- Whisk in almond milk, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
- Heat gently until warm but not boiling.
- Pour into cups and serve immediately.
Nutrition: Calories: 150 | Protein: 2g | Fat: 4g | Carbs: 28g
{“@context”: “https://schema.org/”, “@type”: “Recipe”, “name”: “Chocolate Chai Tea Recipe Vegan”, “image”: [], “author”: {“@type”: “Organization”, “name”: “GluttonLv”}, “description”: “A rich and warming vegan chocolate chai tea combining aromatic spices with creamy plant-based milk. Perfect for cozy afternoons or as a comforting treat.”, “prepTime”: “PT5M”, “cookTime”: “PT15M”, “totalTime”: “PT20M”, “recipeYield”: “2 servings”, “recipeIngredient”: [“2 cups almond milk”, “1 cup water”, “2 black tea bags”, “1 cinnamon stick”, “4 green cardamom pods, crushed”, “4 whole cloves”, “1-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced”, “1 star anise”, “2 tablespoons cocoa powder”, “2 tablespoons maple syrup”, “1 teaspoon vanilla extract”], “recipeInstructions”: [{“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “In a saucepan, combine water, cinnamon stick, cardamom, cloves, ginger, and star anise.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes to infuse the spices.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Add the black tea bags and steep for 3 minutes.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Remove tea bags and spices using a strainer.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Whisk in almond milk, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Heat gently until warm but not boiling.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Pour into cups and serve immediately.”}], “nutrition”: {“calories”: “150”, “proteinContent”: “2g”, “fatContent”: “4g”, “carbohydrateContent”: “28g”}}