Chai, but make it chocolate
A cozy morning drink
Chocolate chai is exactly what it sounds like: warm, comforting chai with a gentle hint of chocolate and spices folded in. It’s rich without being heavy, indulgent without being overly sweet.
This recipe is an easy way to turn an ordinary morning into something a little more thoughtful - whether you’re sharing it with someone you love, or making it just for yourself. It’s especially perfect for Valentine’s Day, when the quiet, intentional moments tend to mean the most.
Why We Love This Pair
The secret to a truly great chocolate chai is ensuring the tea isn't overshadowed by the cocoa. For this recipe, we use our Karak Chai Blend. The tea and cardamom bloom perfectly when simmered, cutting through the richness of the chocolate for a perfectly balanced cup.
Ingredients
Makes 2 cups | Cook time: 15 minutes
- 2½ cups milk
- ½ cup water
- ½ cinnamon stick
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon crushed ginger
- 1 clove
- 2 tablespoons elaichi co. Karak Chai Blend
- 25 g chocolate chunks (milk chocolate works best - I use 2 pieces of Tony’s Chocolonely milk chocolate or a Trader Joe’s milk chocolate bar)
- 1½ tablespoons hot chocolate powder (I use Guittard hot chocolate mix)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- A small pinch of flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Add the milk and water to a pot along with the cinnamon stick, ground cinnamon, crushed ginger, and clove.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a soft boil.
- Stir in the Karak Chai Blend, chocolate chunks, and hot chocolate powder.
- Lower the heat and let everything simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chocolate is fully melted and the flavors come together.
- Turn off the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a small pinch of sea salt.
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Strain into two mugs, pour, and enjoy hot. For a sweeter, more decadent version, top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
Shop the Recipe
Get the Karak Chai Blend Our blend of organic Assam black tea and cardamom. Bold, authentic, and the perfect base for your morning chocolate chai.
Notes
What is "karak" chai?
In this recipe, we use our loose-leaf karak chai blend, which literally translates to "strong tea". It is the go-to source of caffeine in South Asian countries. This simmering process allows the tea and cardamom to fully integrate with the milk, giving you that authentic, deep flavor you won't get from a standard tea bag.
Chocolate choice matters
Milk chocolate keeps this drink cozy and balanced. Dark chocolate will make it richer and more intense - still delicious, just less classic hot-chocolate vibes.
Make it your own
This recipe is forgiving. Adjust sweetness, spice, or chocolate levels based on what you love. That’s part of the magic.
