Description
This Refreshing Iced Cherry Chai Starbucks Copycat recipe combines the spicy aromatic flavors of chai tea with the sweet tartness of cherry juice, finished with creamy milk and a touch of sweetener. Perfect for a cooling, flavorful iced beverage that you can easily make at home.
Ingredients
Scale
Chai Tea Base
- 2 chai tea bags (or 2 teaspoons loose leaf chai)
- 3/4 cup (180ml) hot water
- 1–2 teaspoons honey, maple syrup, or simple syrup (to taste)
Fruit and Dairy
- 1/2 cup (120ml) cherry juice or cherry syrup
- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk of choice (oat, almond, whole milk, etc.)
Extras and Garnishes
- Ice cubes
- Maraschino cherries or fresh cherries
- Cinnamon or nutmeg dusting (optional)
- Cold foam or whipped cream (optional)
Instructions
- Steep the chai tea: Place the chai tea bags in the hot water and steep for 5–7 minutes to fully extract the spices and flavors.
- Add sweetener and cool: Remove the tea bags and stir in honey, maple syrup, or simple syrup while the tea is warm. Then allow the tea to cool to room temperature.
- Combine ingredients: In a jar or shaker, add the cooled chai tea, cherry juice or syrup, and your choice of milk.
- Mix well: Shake or stir the mixture thoroughly to blend all the flavors evenly.
- Prepare glass and serve: Fill a tall glass with ice cubes, then pour the chai-cherry mixture over the ice.
- Garnish and enjoy: Top with a maraschino or fresh cherry and optionally dust with cinnamon or nutmeg or add cold foam or whipped cream for extra indulgence. Serve immediately.
Notes
- You can adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding more or less syrup, honey, or maple syrup.
- For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk like oat or almond milk.
- Cold foam or whipped cream adds creaminess and visual appeal but can be omitted for a lighter drink.
- Steeping the chai longer will result in a stronger spice flavor.
- Serve immediately after preparing to keep the drink cold and flavorful.
