What is a dirty chai latte?

A dirty chai latte is a fusion drink that blends traditional chai tea and espresso. It starts with a base of chai—spiced black tea steeped in milk—then gets a “dirty” twist with one or two shots of espresso added in. The result is a bold, spicy, and creamy beverage with a rich flavor profile and a nice caffeine kick. It’s the perfect drink for anyone who loves the warmth of chai and the energy of coffee in one cup.

What is the difference between chai and dirty chai?

A regular chai (or chai latte) is made with spiced black tea brewed in milk, sweetened to taste. A dirty chai latte , on the other hand, includes espresso. That’s the main difference—adding coffee to the traditional chai drink. The espresso introduces deeper notes and added caffeine, creating a more robust flavor and fuller body compared to a regular chai.

What does making a chai latte “dirty” mean?

When you “dirty” a chai latte, you're simply adding a shot (or two) of espresso to it. This not only changes the taste—adding rich, earthy undertones—but also ups the caffeine content. A “double dirty chai” means two shots of espresso, making it even bolder. It’s a fun way to personalize your latte and find that perfect balance between tea and coffee.

What is a dirty chai tea latte?

A dirty chai tea latte specifically emphasizes the tea portion of the drink, using brewed black tea or chai concentrate with steamed milk and a shot of espresso. This variation leans more tea-forward than versions made with pre-sweetened chai syrups or powders. It’s a cleaner, spicier option with more control over ingredients and sweetness. Whether you make it at home or order one from your local café, the dirty chai tea latte is a customizable favorite that fits a wide range of flavor and dietary preferences. And if you’re already planning your next cozy sip, you might want to try something fruity like the blackberry sage lemonade refresher —a refreshing contrast to the spice and warmth of chai.

Dirty Chai Latte Recipe – Enjoy 1 Bold Shot of Spiced Bliss

Name: Dirty Chai Latte Recipe – Enjoy 1 Bold Shot of Spiced Bliss
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 1 latte
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 1 chai tea bag or 1 tbsp loose leaf chai; ½ cup water; 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy); 1 shot espresso or strong coffee; 1–2 tsp maple syrup or sweetener of choice; Ground cinnamon for garnish

Description

A cozy and energizing blend of chai spices, milk, and espresso—this dirty chai latte recipe is your new favorite pick-me-up.

Ingredients

Scale

1 chai tea bag or 1 tbsp loose leaf chai

½ cup water

1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)

1 shot espresso or strong coffee

1–2 tsp maple syrup or sweetener of choice

Ground cinnamon for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Bring water to a boil, steep chai tea for 5 minutes

2. Brew espresso or strong coffee

3. Warm and froth milk

4. In a mug, combine tea, espresso, and sweetener

5. Pour in frothed milk and stir

6. Top with cinnamon and enjoy

Notes

Use decaf espresso for a lighter option

Store leftover chai tea in the fridge for iced lattes

Try oat milk for extra creaminess

Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Category: Drinks
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 mug
Calories: 120
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 60mg
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 0.5g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg