Apple Chai Latte with Holy Basil

Much as the turning leaves astonish us, slowly then suddenly ablaze with glorious color, some flavors just capture the captivating essence of autumn. Planted in summer, we revel in all that is fresh, crisp, and hydrating. Then, as days grow subtly shorter, one morning we’re greeted by that  familiar crispness in the air – and with it the dreamy scents stirring longings for cozy fall favorites: sweet-tart apples, warm spices, steaming mugs of chai. 

Blending frothed plant milk and pure apple cider, each infused with our Tulsi Masala Chai, this Apple Chai Latte delivers it all. Apple and Chai shine with warmth and comfort on their own. Together, they’re truly delectable. If the combination seems surprising, just think of the irresistible invitation of a warm slice of rustic apple pie, fragrant with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Made with rich, traditional Indian spices, black tea, and adaptogenic herb Tulsi, our Tulsi Masala Chai tea is especially suited for this flavorful pairing. 

In addition to the deep, earthiness complementing the joyful apple sweetness, it offers a wealth of power. Also called Holy Basil, “Queen of Herbs” Tulsi has been used in India for more than 5,000 years to aid in stress relief, enhance mood, support a strong immune system, promote natural detoxification, and more. 

Autumn Warmth

This recipe is simple to make, with minimal active time. Simply steep our Tulsi Masala Chai tea bags in small saucepans of heated plant milk and cider. We like to enhance the cider even more with extra whole spices, but this isn’t necessary. Our Tulsi Masala Chai can add the perfect spicy notes all by itself! What’s more, the results are gorgeous, hot or cold. 

Transitional autumn is a time of both reflection and abundance. Every day brings reminders to slow down, breathe deep, and savor the fleeting brilliance, even just for a little while. Let the simple, comforting pleasure of this apple chai latte be your mindful autumn ritual. Whether cradling a mug, feeling the gentle warmth seep into your fingertips, or enjoying slow slips of a cool apple-chai over ice, you’ll surely savor the pause. 

Apple Chai Latte 

Serves 2

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 Cups organic apple cider 
• 1 cinnamon stick (optional) 
• ½ star anise pod (optional) 
• 1 Teaspoon whole cloves or allspice (optional) 
• 1 Cup unsweetened almond milk (or of choice) 
• 6-8 ORGANIC INDIA Tulsi Masala Chai tea bags, divided 
• ½ Teaspoon vanilla 

Method

1. In a medium saucepan on medium heat, add the cider, the whole spices if using, and all but two of the Tulsi Masala Chai tea bags. 
2. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat, cover and let steep for 5-6 minutes. 
3. At the same time, combine the milk and the reserved two tea bags in another medium saucepan. 
4. Bring to a near boil, then reduce heat, stir in the vanilla, cover, and let steep as above. 
5. When ready to serve, remove the tea bags and froth the milk. 
6. Divide the tea-steeped cider evenly between serving mugs, topping each with frothed milk. 
7. If desired sprinkle with Ceylon Cinnamon and serve with a cinnamon stick.

Notes

• Variations on this Apple Chai Latte Swap in our Tulsi Turmeric Chai tea for added earthy, golden flavor and anti-inflammatory properties. 
• For a caffeine-free variation, try using our Tulsi Turmeric Ginger tea. In this case, we highly recommend incorporating the optional additional spices! 
  
  

Love this warming delight? You may also love Delectable Chai Tea Cakes, Healthy Chai-spiced Rice Pudding and Easy Non-Dairy Cinnamon Ashwagandha Latte.