As the colder months settle in, there’s nothing like a warm, spiced drink to cozy up with. Whether it’s the aromatic allure of chai or the gentle heat of a turmeric latte, spiced beverages are both comforting and healthful. With Milky Plant, you can elevate these classics by making fresh, creamy plant milk as the base, ensuring every sip is wholesome and delicious.
In this blog, we’ll explore how to craft homemade chai with plant milk, along with other spiced drink ideas to brighten your day.
The Perfect Homemade Plant Milk Chai
Chai, a spiced tea that originated in India, is beloved for its harmonious blend of spices like cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and ginger. With fresh plant milk, your chai will have a smooth, creamy texture that perfectly complements these bold flavors.
Ingredients :
- 1 cup water
- 2 black tea bags or 2 tsp loose-leaf black tea
- 1 cup fresh plant milk (almond, cashew, or oat milk made with Milky Plant)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 cardamom pods, lightly crushed
- 2-3 whole cloves
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger or ½ tsp ground ginger
- 1-2 tsp maple syrup or sweetener of choice (optional)
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, combine water, cinnamon stick, cardamom, cloves, and ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 5 minutes to release the spice flavors.
- Add the tea bags or loose tea and simmer for 2 more minutes.
- Strain the tea and spices into a clean saucepan.
- Add fresh plant milk and sweetener, then heat gently, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling.
- Pour into cups, sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon, and enjoy!
Golden Turmeric Latte
Often referred to as “golden milk,” this turmeric latte is a soothing blend with anti-inflammatory benefits. When made with fresh plant milk, the latte becomes extra creamy and luscious.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh cashew or almond milk
- ½ tsp ground turmeric
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of ground black pepper (enhances turmeric absorption)
- 1 tsp maple syrup or honey (optional)
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, heat the fresh plant milk over medium-low heat.
- Whisk in the turmeric, cinnamon, and black pepper until well combined.
- Heat until steaming (but not boiling), stirring occasionally.
- Pour into a mug, top with a dash of cinnamon, and savor its warmth and spice.
Spiced Hot Cocoa
Who doesn’t love hot chocolate? Add a twist to this classic with a dash of warming spices like cinnamon or cayenne.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh oat or hazelnut milk
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1-2 tbsp maple syrup or sugar
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional for a spicy kick)
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, whisk together the cocoa powder, cinnamon, cayenne (if using), and sweetener.
- Slowly add the fresh plant milk, whisking to combine.
- Heat over medium heat until steaming, stirring occasionally.
- Serve in mugs with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of plant-based whipped cream.
Tips for Infusing Spices into Plant Milk
One of the advantages of using Milky Plant is that you can infuse spices directly into your plant milk as it’s being made. Here’s how:
- Add spices like cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods, or vanilla beans to the blending compartment of the Milky Plant alongside your nuts, grains, or seeds.
- Alternatively, prepare your plant milk as usual and infuse it afterward by gently heating it with your desired spices.
This method ensures your plant milk is naturally aromatic and perfectly suited for your spiced drinks.
Store-bought plant milk often contains additives and lacks the creamy richness of homemade versions. Milky Plant ensures your drinks are free of preservatives, customizable, and fresh every time. Whether you’re using almond milk for its nuttiness or oat milk for its velvety texture, fresh plant milk takes your spiced drinks to the next level.
Homemade spiced drinks are a celebration of warmth and flavor, especially during chilly seasons. With Milky Plant, you can create fresh, high-quality plant milk to use as the base for chai, turmeric lattes, spiced hot cocoa, and more. So, grab your favorite spices, start your Milky Plant, and let the cozy sipping begin!
Let us know which recipe you’re trying first—or share your own spiced drink creations!