Sticky Chai is my all-time favourite twist on classic chai (tea) – a comforting fusion of spices with just the right touch of sweetness.
I love sipping it not just on cozy days but anytime, like while reading, writing or relaxing. Whether enjoyed by itself or with pastries, it's my top...

Ingredients
- 1Star Anise
- 1/2tspBlack Peppercorns
- 2Cloves
- 1pieceCinnamon Stick (small)
- 3Green Cardamoms
- 1/2tspAniseed
- 1pinchNutmeg Powder
- 1/2tbspGinger (finely chopped)
- 1tbspBlack Tea Leaves
- 1 1/2tbspHoney
- 1tspLemon Juice
- 2cupWater
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
32.0kcal (1.6%)
Protein
0.2g (0.4%)
Carbs
8.6g (3.13%)
Sugars
7.7g (15.3%)
Healthy Fat
0.0g
Unhealthy Fat
0.1g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Sticky Chai
To prepare the tea blend
Coarsely grind star anise, black peppercorns, cloves, cinnamon sticks, cardamoms, and aniseeds using a mortar & pestle or a blender. Transfer the mixture to a mixing bowl.
Add finely chopped ginger, nutmeg powder, and tea leaves to the coarsely ground spices. Thoroughly combine all the ingredients. l
In a small pan, gently heat honey, and lemon juice over low-medium heat for about a minute. Once warmed, pour this mixture over the combined tea blend in the mixing bowl. Stir well and then store the concoction in an air-tight container.
To prepare the tea-1st Method
In a saucepan, mix water with two teaspoons of the tea blend.
Let the mixture bubble up, then reduce the heat to a simmer for 3-5 minutes.
Strain the mixture to remove the tea leaves and spices, using a fine mesh sieve.
Serve your dairy-free Sticky Chai hot and enjoy the flavorful blend.
2nd Method
Place two teaspoons of the tea blend in a teapot, pour hot boiling water over it, cover and let it steep for 3-5 minutes.
After steeping, strain the mixture to remove the tea leaves and spices, using a fine mesh sieve.
Serve your dairy-free Sticky Chai hot and enjoy the flavorful blend.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
32.0kcal (1.6%)
Protein
0.2g (0.4%)
Carbs
8.6g (3.13%)
Sugars
7.7g (15.3%)
Healthy Fat
0.0g
Unhealthy Fat
0.1g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
Sticky chai blend can be refrigerated and stored in a bottle and used when required.
Adjust the spice levels and sweetener according to your taste preferences.
Honey can be substituted with maple syrup.
FAQS
How can I adjust the sweetness or spiciness in my Sticky Chai recipe?
You can easily customize the sweetness of your Sticky Chai by adding more or less honey according to your taste. If you prefer a spicier flavor, consider increasing the amount of ginger or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Experimenting with the spices will help you find the perfect balance for your palate.
What are some good dairy-free substitutes for Sticky Chai?
If you're looking for dairy-free alternatives, you can use almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk instead of regular milk. These options will complement the spices in Sticky Chai while keeping it creamy and delicious. Just heat the dairy-free milk gently before adding it to your brewed chai for a comforting drink.
How should I store my Sticky Chai blend for maximum freshness?
To keep your Sticky Chai blend fresh, store it in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. This will help preserve the flavors of the spices and tea leaves. It's best to use the blend within a few weeks for optimal taste, but it can last up to a couple of months if stored properly.
What pastries or snacks pair well with Sticky Chai?
Sticky Chai pairs wonderfully with a variety of pastries and snacks. Consider serving it with spiced cookies, scones, or even a slice of gingerbread. The warm spices in the chai complement the flavors of these treats, making for a delightful afternoon tea experience.
Can I make Sticky Chai in larger batches for meal prep?
Absolutely! You can easily double or triple the Sticky Chai blend recipe and store it in an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy a cup, simply use two teaspoons of the blend per cup of water. This makes it convenient for busy mornings or cozy evenings when you want a quick and comforting drink.
Loading reviews...
Leena Kohli
(@leenakohli)
Elevate your confidence through the magic of home cooking with my easy-to-follow recipes 👩🍳✨ Elevate your confidence through the magic of home cooking with my easy-to-follow recipes 👩🍳✨...
Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia