This Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai Latte tastes like autumn in a cup! It blends spicy chai tea with creamy steamed milk, apple flavors, and just a hint of cinnamon and sweetness—like a cozy apple crisp dessert you can sip on a warm day. The iced version makes it cool and refreshing, perfect for chai lovers who want a little fruity twist.
I love making this latte whenever I’m craving something comforting but also a bit special. The combination of chai spices with the apple crisp flavor is surprisingly delightful, and adding the cream gives it a nice smooth finish. I find it’s a great way to enjoy some fall flavors even when it’s not chilly outside.
My favorite way to drink this is over ice with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. It’s easy to whip up at home and tastes just like the Starbucks version, which always impresses friends and family. If you like chai and apple desserts, this latte is definitely worth trying—it’s a fun treat with a little twist!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chai Tea: The base flavor comes from strong brewed chai. You can use a chai tea bag or loose leaves. For a caffeine-free option, try a herbal chai blend.
Apple Juice or Cider: Apple cider adds more autumn flavor and natural sweetness. If you don’t have cider, clear apple juice works fine.
Milk & Cream: Mixing milk and heavy cream gives a rich, smooth texture. Try oat or almond milk for a dairy-free twist. Use coconut cream in place of heavy cream for a creamy vegan version.
Vanilla Syrup: This adds a subtle sweetness and warmth. If you don’t have vanilla syrup, simple syrup with a splash of vanilla extract works well too.
Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg are key for that cozy apple crisp vibe. Feel free to add a pinch of cloves or allspice for extra spice depth.
How Can I Get That Perfect Layered Look in the Latte?
Creating the layered effect of cream over chai apple tea is simple but adds charm:
- Start by filling your glass with ice—you need this chill to slow the mixing.
- Pour the chai and apple juice mixture first, letting it fill up most of the glass.
- Slowly pour the cream and milk mix over the back of a spoon or down the side of the glass. This slows the pour, keeping layers from blending immediately.
- Serve immediately; the layers will look pretty before you gently stir to combine flavors.
Taking your time with this step makes your latte look just like the Starbucks version—smooth, inviting, and ready to sip!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Tea kettle or saucepan – I like using a kettle for quick boiling, but a saucepan works fine for steeping the chai.
- Tea infuser or strainer – makes it easy to remove loose chai leaves if you use them.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredients like syrup, cream, and spices.
- Tall glass – perfect for layering and sipping this iced latte.
- Small whisk or spoon – helps mix the cream and spice mixture smoothly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use almond or oat milk instead of dairy for a dairy-free version that still tastes rich.
- Add a splash of caramel or maple syrup to enhance sweetness and add depth.
- Include a pinch of ground ginger or cloves for extra spice complexity.
- Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a dessert-like finish.
Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai Latte (Starbucks Copycat)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup brewed strong chai tea (or 1 chai tea bag steeped in 1 cup hot water)
- ½ cup apple juice or apple cider
- ¼ cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp vanilla syrup or vanilla-flavored simple syrup
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional, for more sweetness)
- Ice cubes
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, including steeping the chai tea and mixing the ingredients. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy a cold, flavorful latte anytime you like.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brew the Chai Tea:
Steep your chai tea bag or loose chai leaves in 1 cup of hot water for 5-7 minutes to make a strong brew. Remove the tea bag or strain out the leaves once done.
2. Mix in Apple Juice:
While the chai tea is still warm, stir in the apple juice or apple cider to blend those lovely apple flavors.
3. Prepare the Cream Mixture:
In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, vanilla syrup, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and brown sugar (if using) until smooth and combined.
4. Assemble Your Latte:
Fill a tall glass with ice cubes. Pour the chai and apple mixture over the ice. Then slowly pour the cream mixture over the top to create a pretty layered effect.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Give the drink a gentle stir before sipping to mix the flavors. Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a cinnamon stick for an extra cozy touch.
Can I Use Plant-Based Milk and Cream?
Yes! You can easily swap dairy milk and heavy cream for oat, almond, or coconut milk and coconut cream. This keeps the latte creamy and delicious while making it dairy-free.
How Do I Make the Latte Less Sweet?
Simply reduce or omit the brown sugar and vanilla syrup, or use a sugar-free vanilla syrup. You can adjust sweetness to your taste without losing the cozy apple and chai flavors.
Can I Prepare This Drink Ahead of Time?
You can brew the chai tea and mix it with apple juice up to a day ahead. Keep it refrigerated and add ice and cream mixture just before serving for the freshest taste.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chai apple mixture in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Stir well before reheating or serving over ice again.