Fall flavors don’t get cozier than this Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai Latte.
Inspired by the Starbucks favorite, this homemade version blends spiced chai tea with creamy apple brown sugar cold foam, then tops it off with a sprinkle of cinnamon.
The result is a refreshing yet warming drink that captures the crisp taste of autumn in every sip.
Whether you’re swapping out your usual pumpkin spice or just craving a café-style treat at home, this recipe delivers all the flavor without the coffee shop price tag.
My Opinion
I have to admit, this drink has quickly become one of my favorite fall beverages to make at home.
The combination of chai and apple feels like a warm hug in a glass—spiced, sweet, and refreshing all at once.
I especially love the cold foam—it’s creamy, lightly sweetened, and drifts down into the chai as you sip, giving every mouthful a slightly different balance of flavor.
Honestly, I don’t even feel the need to run to Starbucks for this anymore because this version tastes just as good, if not better, and I can adjust the sweetness exactly how I like it.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy & Affordable – Make a Starbucks-style drink in minutes without the price tag.
- Seasonal Flavors – Apple, cinnamon, and chai capture autumn in every sip.
- Customizable – Use dairy or plant-based milk depending on your preference.
- Better Than Store-Bought – Adjust sweetness and spice to suit your taste.
- Beautiful Presentation – The creamy foam layered over iced chai looks just like a barista-made drink.
Ingredients
- Chai Tea Concentrate (store-bought or homemade)
- Milk (2% dairy milk, oat milk, or your choice)
- Heavy Cream (for the cold foam)
- Apple Brown Sugar Syrup (homemade or bottled)
- Ice
- Cinnamon (optional, for garnish)
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
- Chai Tea Concentrate – Use a brand like Tazo for convenience, or make your own from tea bags.
- Milk – Oat milk gives a closer Starbucks-style flavor, but 2% dairy works beautifully too.
- Cold Foam Base – Heavy cream whips easily at home, but if you prefer non-dairy, use barista-style oat and soy milks.
- Apple Brown Sugar Syrup – Homemade syrup made from apple juice concentrate and brown sugar is quick and easy, but bottled syrup blends (like Torani) also work.
- Garnish – A sprinkle of cinnamon ties everything together and adds a cozy finish.
Instructions
- Make the Cold Foam – In a chilled bowl, whisk together heavy cream, a splash of milk, and apple brown sugar syrup until thick and creamy (like melted ice cream). Place in the freezer to rest while preparing the latte.
- Prepare the Chai Latte – In a tall glass, mix chai tea concentrate with milk. Add 1–2 tablespoons of apple brown sugar syrup if you want extra sweetness.
- Add Ice – Fill the glass with ice, leaving a little space at the top.
- Top with Foam – Whisk the cold foam again to thicken, then slowly pour over the chai latte.
- Garnish & Serve – Sprinkle cinnamon on top and enjoy immediately.
Expert Tips & Variations
- Keep It Cold – Use a chilled bowl and whisk for the fluffiest cold foam.
- Non-Dairy Version – Use oat milk for the latte and barista-edition oat + soy for the foam (though it may not whip as thick as dairy).
- Extra Flavor – Add a cinnamon stick for a spiced garnish or drizzle caramel on top for added indulgence.
- Make It Hot – Swap the ice for steamed milk and enjoy a cozy hot apple crisp chai.
- Double Batch – Whip extra cold foam and keep it refrigerated for up to 1 day to save time later.
What to Serve With It
This latte pairs perfectly with cozy fall snacks. Try it alongside warm pumpkin bread, cinnamon rolls, or apple cider donuts for a seasonal treat. For something savory, enjoy it with a slice of quiche or a ham-and-cheese croissant to balance the sweetness.
Storage Instructions
This drink is best enjoyed fresh, as the foam begins to deflate over time. However, you can prepare the chai + milk base ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. The apple syrup can also be made days in advance, making the final drink come together in just minutes.
FAQs
Can I make this without a whisk or frother?
Yes—shake the cold foam ingredients in a sealed jar until thick and creamy.
Can I use store-bought apple syrup?
Absolutely! Just combine apple and brown sugar flavors if you can’t find the exact syrup.
Is this sweeter than the Starbucks version?
That depends on how much syrup you add—you can easily make it lighter or richer than the original.
What if I want it dairy-free?
Use oat milk in the latte and barista-style plant milks for the foam, though the consistency will be lighter than dairy.
Nutrition (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: ~200
- Carbs: 20g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
Conclusion
This Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai Latte is the ultimate fall drink—refreshing, spiced, and topped with creamy apple cold foam. It’s just as delicious as the Starbucks version but so much more affordable and customizable. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself, this recipe brings cozy fall café vibes right into your kitchen.