Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with this Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai, a homemade version of Starbucks’ popular seasonal drink. This recipe combines the bold spice of chai tea with a creamy apple crisp cream topping for the ultimate refreshing treat. Perfect for a cool afternoon or when you’re craving a comforting yet chilled drink, this copycat recipe is easy to make and just as delicious as the original.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai is the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, combining the warmth of chai with the sweetness of apple crisp cream. The creamy topping adds a smooth texture that blends perfectly with the iced chai, while the apple brown sugar syrup brings a rich, fall-inspired sweetness. It’s a fun and easy way to recreate the Starbucks classic at home with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Iced Chai Tea Latte:
-
1/2 cup concentrated chai tea
-
1/2 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
-
Ice, to fill the glass
-
Optional: 1-2 tablespoons apple brown sugar syrup (for extra sweetness)
For the Apple Crisp Cream:
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2 teaspoons apple brown sugar syrup
-
1/4 cup heavy cream
-
1 tablespoon milk (preferably whole or 2%)
Tip: you’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.
Directions
Apple Crisp Cream Topping:
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Chill the Bowl: Place a small bowl and whisk in the freezer for 10-15 minutes.
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Make the Cream: Once the bowl is chilled, combine the heavy cream, milk, and apple brown sugar syrup in the bowl. Whisk until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy, being careful not to touch the bowl too much with your hands.
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Freeze Again: Return the cream mixture to the freezer while you prepare the chai latte. Before topping the drink, whisk again until it thickens to the consistency of melted ice cream.
Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai Latte:
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Prepare the Chai: In a 16-ounce (or larger) cup, combine the chai concentrate and milk. If you like it sweeter, add 1-2 tablespoons of apple brown sugar syrup.
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Add Ice: Fill the cup with ice, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top.
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Top with Apple Crisp Cream: Slowly pour the prepared apple crisp cream over the iced chai.
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Optional Garnish: Sprinkle with ground cinnamon for an extra touch of warmth.
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Serve: Drink immediately and enjoy!
Serving and Timing
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Serving Size: 1 drink (16 ounces)
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
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Total Time: 5 minutes
Variations
For a dairy-free version, swap out the milk and heavy cream for your favorite dairy-free alternatives, such as oat milk and coconut cream. You can also adjust the sweetness by adding more or less apple brown sugar syrup based on your taste.
Storage/Heating
Since this drink is served over ice, it’s best enjoyed immediately. However, you can prepare the apple crisp cream ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the drink cold, be sure to add fresh ice before serving.
FAQ
Can I make this drink with regular chai tea bags?
Yes, you can brew regular chai tea and then use it as the concentrate. Use about 2 chai tea bags steeped in 1/2 cup of hot water for a similar flavor.
How can I make this drink sweeter?
Add extra apple brown sugar syrup to the iced chai or sprinkle some cinnamon sugar on top of the cream for more sweetness.
Can I make the apple crisp cream without apple brown sugar syrup?
If you don’t have apple brown sugar syrup, you can use regular brown sugar or maple syrup and add a few drops of apple extract to replicate the apple flavor.
Can I make this drink hot instead of iced?
Yes! You can serve it hot by simply heating the chai and milk mixture before adding the apple crisp cream on top.
Can I use a dairy-free version of the apple crisp cream?
Yes, substitute the heavy cream and milk with coconut milk, oat milk, or any other non-dairy milk of your choice.
Conclusion
This Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai is the perfect drink to enjoy during the fall or any time you’re craving a sweet, spiced treat. With its creamy topping, bold chai flavor, and apple sweetness, this homemade version of Starbucks’ popular drink is sure to become a favorite. Whip it up in minutes and indulge in this deliciously cozy beverage!
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Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 (16 ounces)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with this Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai, a homemade version of Starbucks’ seasonal favorite. This refreshing and creamy drink combines the bold spices of chai tea with a smooth apple crisp cream topping for a perfect fall-inspired treat. Whether it’s a cool afternoon or a cozy day at home, this drink is quick to make, easy to customize, and just as delicious as the original Starbucks version.
Ingredients
For the Iced Chai Tea Latte:
1/2 cup concentrated chai tea
1/2 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative like oat milk)
Ice (to fill the glass)
Optional: 1-2 tablespoons apple brown sugar syrup (for extra sweetness)
For the Apple Crisp Cream Topping:
2 teaspoons apple brown sugar syrup
1/4 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
1 tablespoon milk (preferably whole or 2%, or use a dairy-free milk alternative)
Instructions
Apple Crisp Cream Topping:
-
Chill the Bowl:
Place a small bowl and whisk in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before preparing the cream. -
Make the Cream:
Once the bowl is chilled, combine the heavy cream, milk, and apple brown sugar syrup in the bowl. Whisk until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy. Be careful not to touch the bowl too much with your hands. -
Freeze Again:
Return the cream mixture to the freezer while preparing the chai. Before topping the drink, whisk again until the cream reaches the consistency of melted ice cream.
Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai Latte:
-
Prepare the Chai:
In a 16-ounce cup, combine the chai concentrate and milk. If you want it sweeter, add 1-2 tablespoons of apple brown sugar syrup. -
Add Ice:
Fill the cup with ice, leaving about 1/2 inch from the top. -
Top with Apple Crisp Cream:
Slowly pour the prepared apple crisp cream over the iced chai, allowing it to float on top. -
Optional Garnish:
For extra warmth and flavor, sprinkle ground cinnamon on top. -
Serve:
Drink immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Dairy-Free Version: For a dairy-free option, swap the heavy cream and milk for coconut cream and any dairy-free milk like oat milk or almond milk.
- Sweetness Adjustments: Customize the sweetness by adding more or less apple brown sugar syrup according to your taste.
- Storage: This drink is best served fresh with ice. However, you can prepare the apple crisp cream ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Rewhisk before topping the drink.
- Customize: Add extra cinnamon, a drizzle of caramel, or a sprinkle of nutmeg for different flavor variations.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Beverage, Iced Tea, Fall Drinks
- Method: Blended, Iced
- Cuisine: Fall, Seasonal Drinks
