Name: Chai White Hot Chocolate
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy); 1/2 cup water; 1 chai tea bag; 1/4 cup white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate; 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract; Whipped cream (optional); Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for garnish (optional)

A cozy fusion of creamy white chocolate and warm chai spices, this Chai White Hot Chocolate is my go-to drink for chilly afternoons or quiet evenings at home. With its rich, velvety texture and aromatic layers of spice, it’s a luxurious twist on the classic hot chocolate, and it comes together in just minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this drink blends the bold, spiced notes of chai with the smooth sweetness of white chocolate. It’s indulgent without being too heavy, and it’s incredibly easy to customize. Whether I’m craving a soothing solo treat or want to impress guests with a festive warm drink, this recipe always hits the mark. It’s also naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free with a simple milk swap.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)

1/2 cup water

1 chai tea bag

1/4 cup white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate

1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Whipped cream (optional)

Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for garnish (optional)

Directions

I start by combining the milk and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. I heat it until it’s steaming, but I make sure it doesn’t boil.

Once it’s hot, I remove the pan from heat and steep the chai tea bag in the mixture for about 4–5 minutes, depending on how strong I want the chai flavor.

After removing the tea bag, I return the pan to low heat and add the white chocolate. I stir constantly until it melts completely and becomes silky smooth.

I stir in the vanilla extract, then pour the drink into a mug.

For a finishing touch, I sometimes top it with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.

Servings and timing

Servings: 1

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

Calories: 220 kcal

Variations

I often play around with this recipe depending on what I have on hand or what mood I’m in. Sometimes I use oat milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version. If I want an extra chai punch, I steep two tea bags instead of one. I’ve also added a splash of espresso to turn it into a dirty chai white hot chocolate—highly recommended for coffee lovers!

Storage/Reheating

This drink is best enjoyed fresh, but if I ever make a double batch, I store the extra portion in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When I’m ready to enjoy it again, I reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain the smooth texture.

Related Recipes:

Chai Cinnamon Rolls

FAQs

What type of white chocolate works best for this recipe?

I like to use high-quality white chocolate bars that I chop myself, but white chocolate chips work well too. Just make sure they melt smoothly.

Can I use loose-leaf chai instead of a tea bag?

Absolutely. I just steep about 1 teaspoon of loose-leaf chai in a tea infuser or strain it out after steeping.

Is it okay to use only milk instead of half milk and half water?

Yes, using all milk makes the drink even creamier. I sometimes go that route when I want it extra rich.

Can I make this ahead of time?

I can prepare it a few hours ahead and keep it warm in a thermos, or refrigerate and reheat later. Just be sure to stir it well when reheating.

Is this drink caffeinated?

Yes, chai tea typically contains caffeine. For a caffeine-free version, I use decaf chai or a caffeine-free spiced herbal tea.

Conclusion

This Chai White Hot Chocolate has become one of my favorite winter warm-ups. It’s simple, satisfying, and always hits that cozy comfort spot. Whether I’m curling up with a book or hosting friends for a holiday gathering, this spiced, creamy drink never disappoints.

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