How to Make Cozy Instant Masala Chai Tea Mix

Ever wished you could recreate your favorite café-style chai latte at home in under 10 minutes without fancy equipment or long steep times? Well, you're not alone. Chai tea is one of the most beloved warm drinks in the U.S., but its roots go deep into South Asian culture. Our Instant Chai Tea Mix Recipe makes it easy to enjoy the warm, spiced magic of traditional masala chai anytime, anywhere. This DIY chai powder is the cozy shortcut your mug's been waiting for. You get to control the sweetness, creaminess, and spice level. And if you’ve got a milk frother in hand, you’re about to take your chai game to a whole new level.

How to Make Cozy Instant Masala Chai Tea Mix

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes

Servings: 10–12 cups (makes about 1.5 cups of mix)

Ingredients

• • 1 cup of sugar (you can use coconut sugar or monk fruit for a healthier twist)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • Black tea of your choice (loose-leaf or bagged)
  • Milk of your choice (dairy or non-dairy like oat, almond, or coconut)

Optional: a dash of vanilla extract, a sprinkle of nutmeg, or extra cinnamon for topping

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Mix.

In a small bowl or spice jar, combine sugar, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves. Stir well until fully blended. Store your chai tea mix in an airtight container like the ones in our Zulay Mixing Bowl Set with lids to keep spices fresh.

Step 2: Brew the Tea.

Steep 1 strong cup of black tea using a tea infuser or loose-leaf tea. For a more robust flavor, brew it a bit longer than usual (about 4–5 minutes).

Step 3: Sweeten & Spice.

Add 1–2 teaspoons of your instant chai mix directly into the brewed tea and stir well. More mix means sweeter chai. 

Step 4: Froth the Milk.

Heat 1/4 cup of milk in the microwave or on the stovetop. Then use our bestselling milk frother to whip the milk until it becomes rich and foamy. For less hassle preparation, you can use our automatic milk frother that comes with an electric heater, so you don't have to manually warm your milk. 

Step 5: Assemble Your Chai.

Pour the frothed milk on top of your sweetened black tea. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of vanilla extract if desired. Pour into your favorite mug and enjoy! For a café-style vibe, use our Stainless Steel Frothing Pitcher to pour with precision.

Tips & Twists to Try with Instant Chai Tea Mix

• Use coconut or almond milk and a plant-based sugar alternative like monk fruit.
• Add 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract for a rich, creamy flavor.
• Mix your chai with a shot of espresso for a spicy caffeine kick.
• Want more heat? Add 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper or increase the ginger.
• Skip the sugar and sweeten your cup with honey or stevia directly.

Health Benefits of Chai Tea

Chai tea is rich in health benefits thanks to its blend of warming spices. Cinnamon helps regulate blood sugar and fight inflammation, while ginger supports digestion and eases nausea. Cardamom promotes gut health with its antimicrobial properties, and cloves offer both antibacterial and antioxidant effects. The black tea base provides a gentle caffeine boost along with antioxidants. With your own homemade chai mix, every cup becomes a delicious way to nourish your body and soul.

Make Your Own Chai Tea Today!

Making your own Instant Chai Tea Mix means never settling for bland store-bought packets or overpriced lattes again. You get full control over the ingredients, sugar levels, and spices, and best of all, you can whip it up in minutes. So if you’re starting your morning or winding down for the night, this chai mix brings the café to your kitchen with every warm, spiced sip.

Take Your Recipe to the Next Level with Premium Ingredients

Want your chai to taste even more luxurious? Check out some of our premium ingredients from our online shop to elevate your mix. Just browse the premium pantry section at Zulay Kitchen and stock your shelf with flavors your chai deserves.

 Shop More Ingredients!

Let Us Know What You Think!

Tried this recipe? Tell us how it turned out and tag us @zulay_kitchen with #kitchenhappiness. Want more easy DIY drink recipes? Let us know in the comments!

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Frequently Asked Questions About This Recipe

How long does homemade chai tea mix last?

Homemade chai tea mix can last up to 6 months when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. For the freshest flavor, we recommend using a glass food container or a spice jar. 

Can I make a sugar-free version?

Absolutely! You can use stevia, monk fruit, or erythritol instead of sugar. Just adjust the amount to match your preferred sweetness. Since sugar provides bulk and balances the spices, you may need to slightly reduce the amount of spice when going sugar-free to prevent overpowering flavors.

What’s the difference between chai and masala chai?

In India, “chai” simply means tea. “Masala chai” refers to spiced tea, which is what we in the West call “chai tea.” Our recipe is for an instant masala chai mix that blends sugar and spices you’d traditionally find in masala chai, making it convenient to mix into any brewed black tea.

Can I use this chai mix in iced drinks?

Yes, just brew your black tea, add the chai mix while it's hot, then cool it down and pour over ice. Froth cold milk with a milk frother for a creamy iced chai latte. You can even blend it with ice and milk for a chai frappé-style drink.

Can I give this mix as a gift?

Definitely. A homemade chai mix makes a thoughtful and delicious DIY gift. Package it in a cute jar, add a ribbon, and attach a tag with brewing instructions. Pair it with a milk frother or tea infuser from Zulay Kitchen for an even sweeter gift idea.

Which tea works best for this recipe?

Black tea is the classic base, and Assam or Darjeeling are great choices for strong, bold flavor. But feel free to experiment! Ceylon tea adds citrusy notes, while decaf versions work great for evening sipping. 

Can I use whole spices instead of ground?

Yes, but you'll need a spice grinder. Using whole spices like cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods, and cloves and grinding them fresh can enhance flavor and aroma significantly.