Homemade Dirty Chai Latte (Iced or Hot!)

No more going to coffee shops for a dirty chai latte! This is one of my favorite weekend treats and I'm sharing how you can make it for yourself, including a homemade chai concentrate.

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You’ll love this homemade dirty chai latte recipe.

It’s packed with flavor. This is a popular drink for a reason! The blend of spices including the warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg mixed with the taste of espresso shots pairs so perfectly together. Plus, it's delicious hot or iced.

It’s so easy to make, including the chai concentrate! With just a few minutes of making a big batch of chai tea concentrate, you'll have everything you need to whip up this espresso drink in no time.

It’s much more affordable than going to a coffee shop. Seriously, you can save some serious money by making this drink or a few of my other favorites like this strawberry latte or Nutella latte at home!

Ingredients

Espresso. I use an ALDI Nespresso dupe espresso machine to make the perfect shot or two of espresso. You can use whatever method of making espresso you prefer, including instant espresso, or you can use a few ounces of very strong coffee.

Chai Concentrate. I make chai concentrate from tea bags and it is so delicious! I've included directions below.

Milk, of choice. Whether you prefer oat milk, soy milk, dairy milk, whole milk, or coconut milk, use whatever milk you like to use in your coffee.

What is dirty chai latte?

A dirty chai latte also referred to as a red eye chai, is a chai latte with a shot of espresso for an extra kick of caffeine. If you want a filthy chai latte that means you want a double shot of espresso. You can drink it hot or order it as an iced dirty chai latte. I really like either option.

How to make chai concentrate from chai tea bags.

A dirty chai tea latte needs chai concentrate. Now, you can make it entirely from scratch, or you can make it using tea bags, sugar, and water. Here's how to do that.

1. Prepare 15 chai tea bags by removing the tabs at the top so you are left with string and the bags. Tie them all together.
2. In a small stock pot, combine 4 cups of water, your 15 chai tea bags, and ⅓ cup of granulated sugar.
3. Over medium heat, continue to stir until the mixture is boiling and your sugar is melted.
4. Let it simmer for 5 minutes over low heat.
5. Remove from the heat and allow it to steep for 30 minutes.
6. Store in an airtight container in the fridge, like a mason jar, it will be good for about a month.

How to make a dirty chai latte.

1. Use a milk frother, immersion blender, or french press to froth your milk.
2. Frother/Immersion Blender: using a microwave-safe glass, microwave your milk for 1 minute. Froth for about 30 seconds and let it sit and settle for 30 seconds.
3. French Press: add very hot milk to the fresh press and pump until frothy. Let it settle for 30 seconds.
4. In your coffee mug, add 2 oz. of chai concentrate and 2 oz. espresso.
5. Top with your frothed milk.
6. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon on top and enjoy!

Tips for making the perfect drink.

Sweetness. Now, if you like your coffee a bit sweeter, you can add a sweetening agent to your milk. Maple syrup, cane sugar or honey are great options.

Plant-Based Milk. If you want to make this a vegan latte, use your favorite plant-based milk.

Decaf Option. Don't want caffeine? You can make the chai simple syrup with decaf tea and opt for decaf shots of espresso.

Make your own traditional Masala Chai. If you're really feeling up for the challenge, make your own cup of homemade Masala Chai and add a shot of espresso. For any tea enthusiasts out there, this is for you!

Is a dirty chai latte sweet?

It is! It's sweet and spicy! The spice blend of the chai tea and the bitterness from the addition of espresso makes it one of my favorite coffee drinks.

What milk is best with dirty chai?

I prefer 2% milk (dairy-based) or oat milk. I like thicker milk for this recipe! I really like how the extra cream complements the spicy chai flavor and sweetness of a classic dirty chai latte.

FAQ

Why is dirty chai called dirty?

A dirty chai latte is called "dirty" because the addition of espresso "dirties" the color of the traditional chai tea latte.

How do you order a dirty chai latte?

If you find yourself at your local coffee shop or Starbucks, you can simply order a dirty chai latte! If they're unsure, ask for your desired size of chai latte with an extra shot of espresso.

What’s the caffeine content in a dirty chai latte?

In this recipe, there are about 130 mg of caffeine. 2 oz. of espresso + 2 oz. of chai concentrate is roughly that much caffeine.

Amazon home finds

If you're in the market for an espresso maker, here's a stovetop espresso Moka pot or a countertop espresso maker.

I love a good double-walled coffee mug.

If you need a frother to froth milk, this handheld one has been my go-to for the last few years.

Pin it for later!

Want more coffee recipes?

• Nutella Latte
• Starbucks Honey Almond Milk Cold Brew
• Starbucks Brown Sugar Shaken Iced Espresso
• Easy Espresso Martini with Bailey’s