The Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai Latte is like a cozy fall day in a glass, even when the weather is warm. It combines the spiced warmth of chai tea with the sweet, fresh taste of apple and the creamy richness that makes every sip so smooth. With little bursts of apple flavor and a touch of cinnamon, this drink feels just like having a slice of apple crisp—but cooler and perfect for any time you need a refreshing treat.
I love making this latte because it’s sweet without being overpowering, and the chai spices add a little zing that wakes up your taste buds. I usually use a good chai concentrate to make things easy, then stir in some apple syrup and creamy milk. It’s also fun to add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top—makes it look as nice as it tastes! I find it’s a great way to enjoy apple crisp flavors without turning on the oven or heating up the kitchen.
Whenever I serve this iced latte to friends, they always ask for the recipe. It’s perfect for afternoon breaks or as a little pick-me-up when you want something cool but still comforting. If you like chai and apples, this drink will quickly become one of your favorites, bringing a little bit of that fall feeling no matter what season it is.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chai Tea or Concentrate: Strong chai is the soul of this latte, with its warming spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. If you can’t find chai concentrate, just brew extra-strong chai tea and cool it down before mixing.
Apple Juice or Cider: Apple juice adds that crisp, sweet flavor that makes this drink feel like apple crisp in a glass. Fresh apple cider works great too, especially if you want a more natural taste. For a twist, try pear juice as a substitute.
Milk or Cream: I enjoy using half-and-half for a creamy texture, but you can swap in any milk you like—oat milk or almond milk make good plant-based alternatives. For a lighter drink, unsweetened versions are best.
Vanilla or Apple Syrup: Syrups bring sweetness and depth. Vanilla syrup adds a smooth touch, while apple syrup highlights the apple flavor. If you don’t have apple syrup, mix a little maple syrup with apple juice for a nice substitute.
Spices: Ground cinnamon is key for that apple crisp feel. Nutmeg is optional but gives an extra layer of warmth. Feel free to experiment with a pinch of ground cloves or allspice if you want.
How Do You Get the Best Creamy Swirl in Your Iced Latte?
The beautiful swirl in this iced chai latte comes from carefully layering the ingredients and the order you add them. Here’s how to get it right:
- Start by filling the glass with ice cubes so the drink stays cold and the cream doesn’t melt too fast.
- Pour the spiced chai and apple mixture over the ice—this is your base.
- Slowly pour the milk or cream on top. Pouring gently over the back of a spoon helps the cream float and swirl instead of mixing immediately.
- Don’t mix if you want the pretty layered effect. Let the cream blend with the chai as you drink.
- Adding whipped or frothed cream on top before sprinkling cinnamon makes it even richer and more visually appealing.
Use cold ingredients and fresh ice to keep the layers distinct longer. This not only looks great but lets you enjoy the changing flavors with each sip.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Glass or large mug – clear glass lets you enjoy the pretty swirls of chai and cream.
- Tea kettle or pot – to brew strong chai tea if you’re not using concentrate.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for getting the right balance of tea, apple juice, milk, and spices.
- Spoon or small whisk – to mix the ingredients smoothly without lumps.
- Straw – a fun way to sip the iced latte and enjoy the cream blending as you drink.
- Frother (optional) – to make whipped or frothed cream for topping if you want extra creaminess.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try swapping apple juice with pear or cranberry juice for a twist on the fruit flavor.
- Add a splash of cold brewed coffee or espresso for an iced apple chai latte mocha.
- Use cinnamon syrup or a dash of pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon and nutmeg for a seasonal feel.
- Mix in a little caramel syrup with the apple syrup for a sweeter, dessert-like drink.
Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai Latte
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup strong brewed chai tea, cooled (or chai concentrate)
- ½ cup apple juice or apple cider
- ½ cup milk or cream (use your favorite dairy or plant-based milk)
- 1-2 tbsp vanilla syrup or apple-flavored syrup (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon, plus more for garnish
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- Ice cubes
- Whipped cream or frothed cream for topping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick because the chai tea should be brewed and cooled beforehand or you can use ready-made chai concentrate. Assembling the drink and adding toppings only takes a few minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brew or Prepare the Chai Base:
Brew a strong cup of chai tea and let it cool completely, or simply use chai concentrate following the package instructions. This will be the warming spice base of your latte.
2. Mix the Drink:
In a large glass or shaker, combine the cooled chai tea, apple juice or cider, milk or cream, vanilla or apple syrup, ground cinnamon, and optional nutmeg. Stir or shake well to mix everything evenly.
3. Serve Over Ice and Garnish:
Fill your serving glass with ice cubes. Pour the chai and apple mixture over the ice. If you want, add whipped or frothed cream on top. Finish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon for extra flavor and a pretty touch.
4. Enjoy!
Serve immediately with a straw and watch the beautiful cream and chai swirl together as you sip your refreshing, spiced iced latte.
Can I Use Chai Tea Bags Instead of Concentrate?
Absolutely! Brew a strong chai tea using tea bags and let it cool completely before mixing. Using several bags or steeping longer helps get a bold flavor similar to concentrate.
What’s the Best Milk to Use for This Latte?
You can use any milk or cream you like—dairy, oat, almond, or coconut all work well. For a creamier texture, half-and-half or heavy cream is delicious, but plant-based milks keep it lighter and dairy-free.
Can I Make This Drink Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the chai and apple juice mixture in advance and keep it refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Add ice and milk just before serving to keep it fresh and maintain the creamy swirl effect.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day. Stir well before drinking and add fresh ice for the best taste and texture.
