Just mix this Easy Keto Chai Tea Mix into a cup of brewed tea for an instant sweet, spicy, creamy chai! This easy recipe for chai tea powder is low carb, keto, gluten-free, grain-free, sugar-free, and Trim Healthy Mama friendly.
I love sweet, creamy, hot keto chai latte on a cold day. One year I even made instant chai tea latte mix and gave it as a gift to friends and relatives. It had powdered milk, powdered creamer, sugar, instant tea powder, and all the chai spices. I decided to give that instant dry powder mix recipe a makeover this week.
There isn't much that's more relaxing than enjoying a cup of keto chai tea latte at the end of the day. It gets rid of that winter chill and is so comforting. Even the kids will enjoy sipping on a warm mug of it. Now that I have adjusted this drink recipe, it's even more incredible. This has 0 carbs per serving making it great for low carb, keto, and Trim Healthy Mama.
The secret ingredient in this keto chai latte is Heavy Cream Powder. That is how you can get it creamy without using artificial powdered products. Heavy cream powder is really just powdered milk like you see in the grocery store but with higher fat content. It is just powdered cream. If you don't mind a few more carbs subbing in whole milk powder is ok too.
I love this chai powder recipe and this is why:
- It's flavorful and perfectly spicy
- Fits a keto or low-carb diet
- Comforting and warm
- Super easy to make
- Makes a lovely gift
Ingredients in Keto Chai Tea Latte Mix
Some of these spices are pricey and I don't use them very often which is why I buy whole spices instead of ground. You can just grind them as needed. They can last years and years that way. To be honest, I think my cardamon is about 5 years old and was still fragrant and spicy when freshly ground.
Sweetener - I use a combination of granular sweeteners and stevia in my recipes. These sweeteners are low in carbohydrates and do not spike blood sugar levels, making them suitable for maintaining ketosis. Stevia, erythritol, xylitol, allulose, and monk fruit extract are some common keto-friendly sweeteners that provide sweetness without adding extra calories or carbs to the diet.
Heavy cream powder (or coconut milk powder) - Heavy cream powder is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes and dishes. Its rich and creamy texture adds a luxurious element to both sweet and savory dishes. It also has a longer shelf life than liquid heavy cream, making it a practical choice for those who may not use it frequently.
Cinnamon - Cinnamon is a spice that is derived from the bark of trees in the Cinnamomum family. It has a warm and sweet flavor that is commonly used in baking and cooking. Cinnamon is also known for its numerous health benefits, such as its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to lower blood sugar levels. Additionally, cinnamon has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its antimicrobial and antioxidant effects. Overall, cinnamon is a versatile spice that adds a delightful taste and beneficial qualities to various dishes and beverages.
Ginger - Ginger is a versatile and aromatic spice that has been used for centuries in various cuisines and traditional medicine. It is derived from the root of the ginger plant, which has a distinct spicy and slightly sweet flavor. Ginger is known for its numerous health benefits, including its ability to aid digestion, reduce nausea, and alleviate inflammation. It is commonly used in Asian cooking as a key ingredient in curries, stir-fries, and marinades. Additionally, ginger can be consumed in various forms such as fresh, dried, powdered, or even in the form of ginger tea or ginger ale. Overall, ginger adds a delightful zing to dishes while also providing a range of health advantages.
Allspice - Allspice is a spice derived from the dried berries of the Pimenta dioica tree, native to Central America and the Caribbean. It got its name because it resembles the flavors of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg combined, giving it a unique taste profile. Allspice is commonly used in both sweet and savory dishes, adding warmth and depth to recipes. It can be found in various forms such as whole berries, ground powder, or essential oil. In cooking, allspice is utilized in diverse cuisines worldwide, ranging from Jamaican jerk seasoning to Scandinavian mulled wine. With its versatile nature and rich flavor, allspice continues to be a popular ingredient in many culinary creations.
Cardamom - Cardamom is a spice that is native to the Indian subcontinent and is commonly used in both sweet and savory dishes. It has a strong, unique flavor that is described as slightly sweet and floral, with hints of citrus and eucalyptus. Cardamom pods contain small black seeds that are ground into powder or used whole in cooking. This versatile spice can be found in a variety of cuisines, including Indian, Middle Eastern, and Scandinavian. In addition to its culinary uses, cardamom also has medicinal properties and is often used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for digestive issues and respiratory ailments. Whether used to enhance the flavor of a curry or add depth to a cup of chai tea, cardamom is truly a beloved spice around the world.
Cloves - Cloves are a type of aromatic spice that is derived from the flower buds of the clove tree. These small, dark brown buds have a strong and pungent flavor that adds depth and warmth to various dishes. Cloves are commonly used in both sweet and savory recipes, such as gingerbread cookies, spiced chai tea, and traditional Indian curries. They have a distinct aroma and taste that can be described as slightly sweet with hints of pepper and cinnamon. In addition to their culinary uses, cloves also possess medicinal properties and are often utilized for their antibacterial and antiseptic qualities. Overall, cloves are a versatile spice that enhances the flavor of many dishes while providing numerous health benefits.
Nutmeg - Nutmeg is a popular spice that originates from the seed of the Myristica fragrans tree. It is commonly used in both sweet and savory dishes, adding a warm and slightly sweet flavor. The spice has a rich history and has been traded for centuries. Nutmeg is also known for its numerous health benefits, including its ability to aid digestion, reduce inflammation, and boost brain function. Its versatility makes it a staple in many kitchens around the world.
How to Make Chai Mix
Step One: Just stir together the ingredients to make the chai tea powder. That's it!
Expert Tip: If you grind whole spices you may want to put them through a mesh strainer to remove any large pieces.
How To Serve Keto Chai Tea Latte Mix
I decided not to use instant tea mix in this recipe. It really isn't much harder to steep a couple of bags of tea. The benefits of doing it this way are: you can choose your favorite variety of black tea, it's cheaper, and it's less processed. I made this with Oolong tea bags, and it was amazing.
You will need to put 2 tea bags in a large mug and pour 12 ounces of boiling water on top. Allow the tea to sit and steep for a few minutes or until it's the strength you prefer.
Then mix in 3-4 teaspoons of the homemade keto chai tea mix and stir well. Then add in a drop or two of vanilla if desired and enjoy!
Variations
Low Fat - To make this a fuel pull, just leave out the heavy cream powder and add almond milk after you add the mix. Start with 1 tablespoon of the mix and taste.
Dairy-Free -To make this chai tea latte dairy free just leave out the heavy cream powder and add a splash of coconut milk after you add the mix. Start with 1 tablespoon of the mix and taste. Or use dried coconut milk powder. A non dairy creamer powder would work but most are not low carb.
Vanilla Chai - Either add the seeds from a vanilla bean pod to the mix or add a dash of vanilla extract when making a cup.
Spiced Chai - To boost the spice just add more spices of your preference.
Common Questions
Can I Make This An Iced Keto Chai Tea Latte?
Yep! It's very important that you mix it with the boiling water as directed. Then let it cool down for several minutes. After it's cooled down, pour it over a glass that has been filled to the top with ice cubes. Depending on how hot the mixture is when you pour it on, the ice may melt quickly, so you may need to add more. If the ice melts, it will be a little watered down. To combat this, you may want to add another teaspoon of the mix to the water before you make the iced latte.
Another option is to blend ice along with the prepared mix until it's smooth and creamy. Add some whipped cream and sprinkle some cinnamon on top and enjoy.
Is Traditional Pre-Made Chai Tea Keto?
Yes, and no. You can buy tea bags that are flavored chai tea that does fit into a low-carb diet. However, there are many mixes you can buy, like Oregon chai latte powder, that are not keto at all. Most have tons of added sugar and other processed ingredients that aren't low carb.
It's also important to note that if you head into a coffee shop and order a chai tea, it's almost certainly going to be loaded with sugars and other stuff you probably don't want. So, be mindful and ask them what the ingredients are before you start sipping away. Or stick to making it at home with this keto chai tea latte instead. Try this sugar-free Russian tea recipe too!
How Long Does The Mix Last?
The keto chai latte mix will actually last several months if you keep it airtight. A mason jar is a fantastic storage option for keeping the mix airtight, but any sealed container would work. You should store the masala chai concentrate in a cool, dry spot in your home, away from any sources of heat. It shouldn't be near the stove, oven, sunlight, or near the dishwasher.
Any kind of moisture will cause the mix to go bad very quickly. So keeping it dry is essential if you want to have it on hand.
Giving this as gifts? I made some cute little tags you can include. You can get a printable version for free and there are 5 per 8.5x11 page (I recommend printing on cardstock).
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📖 Recipe
Ingredients
- ½ cup Joy Filled Eats Sweetener (or see alternatives in recipe notes)
- ½ cup heavy cream powder
- 2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon each ground allspice cardamon, cloves, nutmeg ***
Instructions
- Whisk together all the ingredients.
To serve:
- Pour 12 oz boiling water over 2 tea bags. Let steep until the desired strength is obtained. Stir in 3-4 tablespoon instant chai tea mix. Add a few drops of vanilla if desired.
Variations:
- To make this a fuel pull just leave out the heavy cream powder and add almond milk after you add the mix. Start with 1 tablespoon of the mix and taste.
- To make this dairy free just leave out the heavy cream powder and add a splash of coconut milk after you add the mix. Start with 1 tablespoon of the mix and taste.
Notes
Nutrition
Originally Published November 18, 2016. Revised and Republished July 7, 2023.
Carmen Moleon says
Hi ,thanks for all your lovely recipes , Do I need to add cloves , cardamom and nutmeg ? Or are they just all included in the ground allspice ?
Taryn says
You add ¼ teaspoon of each: ground allspice, cardamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
Victoria says
You are my hero!! I have tried many low carb chai recipes and disappointed each time. I never heard of heavy cream powder and let me tell you this has been a treat! I made the recipe with almond milk and it was amazing. Thank you 😊
angie says
amazing thank you ...having gestational diabetes...... i really needed this!!!
Angie says
Hey question, so instead of the heavy cream powder can I used Anthony’s coconut milk powder ? And do I still use the same measurements?
Taryn says
Yes
colleen liszkiewicz says
I use coconut milk powder for the recipe all the time. It is delicious
PixieLou says
Did you use ground cardamom or cardamom pods that you ground yourself? I'm wondering because I have black cardamom pods, but not green cardamom pods and I know they are quite different. Just wondering if I can use what I have or if I should buy some ground cardamom.
Taryn says
I ground black cardamon.
Julia Karn says
Can I skip the heavy cream powder and just add heavy cream?
Taryn says
Yes, I think so.
Glo Shirk says
As soon as I saw the chai tea recipe posted, I had an idea to try this mix in a sugar free vanilla ice cream. What instant tea mix & how much would you have put in this recipe if you did that instead of brewing the tea each time? My college age son has requested a chai tea ice cream since that is his new hot beverage addiction. 🙂 not sure if it would work, to dump this whole spice recipe in a quart and half recipe of vanilla ice cream. Would love your thoughts?
Taryn says
I'd try using a tablespoon of one like this and then taste testing: https://amzn.to/2usioXV The ones in the grocery store tend to have fillers like maltodextrin.
Glo says
Thank you so much! Our family enjoys so many of your recipes!
Teresa says
Mixed up a batch tonight! So glad to have an option for keto diet!
Melinda says
Could one use MCT oil powder instead of the heavy cream powder?
Taryn says
You could add it to the hot beverage but that wouldn't work to make the mix.
coll says
Just came across this recipe in the "dairy free" archives....got so excited until I saw the Heavy Cream powder...which is dairy
Taryn says
I give the option to use coconut milk powder instead 😀
Jana says
Do you use black tea?
Taryn says
Yes, I've made it with regular black tea and oolong.
Marilyn says
Wow, Wow, and more WOW! I can't believe how good this stuff is. (Squealing like a little girl!) First, I had to wait for the heavy cream powder to be delivered. Then, I made a special trip to Penzeys to get the spices I needed. (FYI: I'm a serious spice-a-holic). I have been on a quest to find a replacement for the instant hot chocolate recipe I always made for the winter months. I don't drink coffee and not a fan of hot tea. I can honestly say that I found it. I just got my spices this past Saturday and have had 4 cups of this steaming deliciousness since then (and it's only Monday). I can't thank you enough Taryn. You're my new hero. Oh, and by the way, I NEVER post comments to recipes, so this is a first for me.
Marie says
I didn't care for this too much as a hot tea. However, I added it to a scoop of vanilla whey protein powder and 16 oz. of original unsweetened almond milk, and it was absolutely delicious!!! I will be using this combo as a post workout drink and/or meal replacement.
Jo says
Thanks for this - I had never heard of the heavy cream powder - the one you recommend is currently sold out so I will be looking for alternatives.
Wilderness Family Naturals makes a great Coconut milk powder that dissolves well and tastes great. There is a touch of maltodextrin in it so THM purists might want to avoid, but those wanting the convenience of a dairy free instant might want to check it out.
Leah says
Will this recipe make a pint or half-pint jar?
Taryn says
A little more than a half-pint. I was able to make one to drink and then fill a half-pint jar.
Sarah says
This is awesome! I never even knew there was such a thing as heavy cream powder! I love having mixes ready ahead of time!
Donna says
This is perfect! Enjoying a cup right now and watching my newest Netflix obsession. Nice way to chase away the snowy day. Thank you!
Taryn says
I'm so glad you liked it!
Karen Amberson says
Can you tell me where you purchased heavy cream powder?
Taryn says
From Amazon. The photo of the product is a clickable link to the one I purchased.