Name: Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai Latte
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Chai Tea Concentrate (Pre-made or homemade); 1 cup Milk (Dairy or non-dairy); 2 tablespoons Apple Brown Sugar Syrup (Store-bought or homemade); Ice (As desired); 1 cup Heavy Cream (For cold foam); 1/2 cup Milk (Dairy or non-dairy); Cinnamon (Optional garnish)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As the crisp autumn air fills the streets, I can’t help but crave the cozy flavors that define the season. Enter the Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai Latte—a simple yet luxurious Starbucks copycat recipe that brings the warmth of spiced chai tea, sweet apple notes, and a dreamy cold foam right to your kitchen. What makes this drink even more enticing is its adaptability; it can effortlessly cater to both dairy lovers and non-dairy enthusiasts alike. With just five minutes of prep, you can skip the café lines and whip up a delicious, budget-friendly treat that’s perfect for sipping on those chilly fall afternoons. Are you ready to elevate your autumn beverage game?

Why is this drink a must-try?

Cozy Fall Flavors: The Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai is inspired by the warmth of autumn, merging spiced chai with sweet apple notes for a truly comforting indulgence.
Versatile Options: Choose your milk! Whether you’re a fan of rich dairy or prefer non-dairy alternatives like oat milk, this recipe has you covered.
Quick and Easy: In just five minutes, you can create a café-style drink without leaving home. Perfect for busy days!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Serve it at gatherings or cozy nights in—everyone will love this delightful and engaging fall beverage! Pair it with a slice of apple pie for an extra treat.
Customizable Experience: Feel free to add your favorite syrups or try different tea bases for a unique twist each time. This ensures every cup can be uniquely yours!

Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai Ingredients

For the Chai Latte
• Chai Tea Concentrate – This spiced base brings warmth and a cozy flavor to your drink; you can use pre-made or a homemade version for convenience.
• Milk – Adds a creamy texture to the latte; swap it for oat milk for an excellent non-dairy option without sacrificing flavor.
• Apple Brown Sugar Syrup – This essential syrup gives that sweet apple essence; you can easily make it at home or buy a pre-made version.
• Ice – Essential for cooling and adding texture; fill your glass as desired to keep it refreshing.

For the Cold Foam
• Heavy Cream – Creates a rich, dreamy cold foam topping; remember, using heavy cream is the best way to achieve that luscious, thick texture.
• Milk – Combining with heavy cream enhances the creaminess of the foam; choose a non-dairy milk like oat for a dairy-free experience.
• Cinnamon (optional garnish) – A sprinkle not only adds a delightful aroma but also gives a beautiful presentation to your drink; don’t skip it!

This Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai Latte is not just a treat; it’s an experience to savor. Enjoy crafting this delightful beverage at home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai Latte

Step 1: Prepare Cold Foam
Start by chilling a mixing bowl and whisk in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect cold foam consistency in your Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai Latte. Once chilled, the cold foam will have a thicker texture and hold its shape better when served atop the drink.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In the chilled bowl, whisk together heavy cream, milk of your choice, and apple brown sugar syrup until thick and creamy—this should take around 2-3 minutes of vigorous whisking. The combination of these ingredients will create a luscious cold foam that wonderfully complements the chai latte. If using non-dairy milk, ensure it’s well-suited for foaming.

Step 3: Re-Chill Foam
Before moving on to the chai latte, pop the whipped mixture back into the freezer for a few minutes. This brief chilling time allows the cold foam to set perfectly while you prepare the rest of your Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai Latte. Maintaining a cold temperature is key for a delightful foam texture.

Step 4: Make Chai Latte
In a 16-ounce cup, combine your chai tea concentrate with the remaining milk and an optional splash of apple brown sugar syrup for added sweetness. Stir well to blend the ingredients, allowing the warm, spiced flavors of chai to meld beautifully with the creamy milk. This spice blend is essential for creating the comforting base of your drink.

Step 5: Add Ice
Fill the cup generously with ice, leaving about half an inch of space at the top for the cold foam to settle. The ice not only chills the chai but also provides a pleasing texture. Make sure to use plenty of ice to achieve that refreshing sensory experience in your Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai Latte.

Step 6: Top with Foam
Carefully pour the apple crisp cold foam over the top of your iced chai. This creates a delightful layering effect, showcasing the creamy foam above the spiced chai. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top adds an aromatic final touch and enhances the cozy presentation, inviting you to indulge in this seasonal treat.

What to Serve with Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai

As the aroma of spiced chai fills your home, you’ll want to create a feast that perfectly complements this delightful drink.

Apple Pie: The warm, spiced flavors of apple pie echo the drink’s essence, making it a classic, comforting pairing.
Oatmeal Cookies: Chewy and slightly sweet, these cookies enhance the cozy experience of savoring your chai latte, turning it into a delightful snack break.
Scones with Clotted Cream: Flaky scones topped with rich clotted cream add a luxurious touch, balancing the creamy cold foam of the latte beautifully.
Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses introduces creamy textures that contrast with the drink’s spice, perfect for balanced bites while you sip.
Caramel Drizzle Brownies: Indulge in these rich, fudgy brownies, adding a luscious layer of flavor that works harmoniously with the sweetness of the apple brown sugar syrup.
Spiced Nuts: Crunchy, seasoned nuts offer a delightful textural contrast, bringing an unexpected flavor component that complements the warm chai spices.

This delightful spread transforms your Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai moment into a full cozy experience, perfect for sharing with family or friends. Enjoy your inviting autumn gathering!

How to Store and Freeze Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai Latte

Fridge: Store leftover Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai Latte in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Shake well before serving again to mix the layers.
Cold Foam: Cold foam is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 2 hours. If you have excess foam, store it in a separate container and rewhip briefly before use.
Syrup Storage: Homemade apple brown sugar syrup can be refrigerated for up to 2 weeks in a sealed jar. This makes it easy to whip up your drink quickly anytime!
Freezer: While it’s not ideal to freeze the assembled drink, you can freeze leftover apple brown sugar syrup in ice cube trays for easy future use in your Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai Latte.

Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and make this recipe truly yours with these delightful twists!

Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a luscious dairy-free cold foam.
Flavor Boost: Add a splash of caramel syrup for an indulgent twist that complements the apple notes beautifully.
Tea Swap: Experiment with rooibos or green tea instead of chai for a unique flavor profile that still satisfies.
Sweeten It Up: Replace apple brown sugar syrup with maple syrup for a different sweet undertone that surprises the palate.
Spice It Up: Toss in a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of ginger for an extra layer of warmth and a zingy kick in your chai.
Texture Twist: Stir in crushed graham crackers into the cold foam for a delightful crunch that echoes classic apple crisp.
Chill Factor: Freeze apple juice in ice cubes, then use these instead of regular ice for a fun flavor infusion as they melt.
Peppery Note: For those who love heat, sprinkle a bit of cayenne pepper into the chai latte for a warming touch in colder months.

If you’re looking for more exciting drink ideas, don’t forget to check out our Brownie Ice Cream for dessert or combine with some Cream Cheese Salami for easy snacking! Enjoy experimenting!

Tips for the Best Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai

Chill Everything: Ensure all components, including the bowl and whisk, are cold to produce the best cold foam texture for your Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai Latte.
Vigorous Whisking: Whisk your heavy cream and syrup vigorously for that luscious foam—if needed, return to the freezer for a few minutes to solidify.
Non-Dairy Foaming: If opting for non-dairy milk, choose a barista blend or a variety designed for frothing, like oat or soy, to get the best results.
Sweetness Control: Adjust the apple brown sugar syrup to your taste; remember, this ingredient is key to capturing that apple crisp flavor essence.
Layering Technique: For an eye-catching presentation, pour the cold foam slowly over the ice—this creates a beautiful layered effect in your Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai Latte.

Make Ahead Options

Creating your Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai Latte ahead of time can save you precious moments on busy fall mornings! You can prepare the apple brown sugar syrup and refrigerate it for up to 2 weeks, ensuring that it’s ready for quick assembly. Additionally, the cold foam can be whisked together and kept in the fridge for up to 24 hours—just give it a quick stir before serving to restore its creamy texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, mix your chilled chai tea concentrate with milk and ice, then top it off with the prepared foam for that perfect finish. By prepping these components in advance, you’ll have your favorite fall drink at your fingertips in no time, delivering delightful, restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!

Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai Latte Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best apples for apple brown sugar syrup?
For the best flavor in your syrup, look for firm, crisp apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji. These varieties provide a perfect sweetness and tartness balance. If you’re using fresh apples, avoid any with dark spots or soft patches, as these indicate over-ripeness.

What’s the best way to store leftover Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai Latte?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, give it a good shake to blend the layers. It’s essential to consume the drink within this timeframe to maintain its delicious flavors and textures.

Can I freeze the apple brown sugar syrup?
Absolutely! You can freeze your homemade apple brown sugar syrup in ice cube trays for easy access. Just pour the syrup into the trays and let them freeze. Once frozen, transfer the cubes into a sealed bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to use, simply pop a cube into your next Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai Latte!

What should I do if my cold foam doesn’t whip up properly?
If your cold foam isn’t achieving that thick, creamy consistency, ensure your heavy cream, bowl, and whisk are thoroughly chilled. If it still seems too thin, try whisking for a bit longer or refrigeterate it again for a few minutes before you whisk. An under-chilled mixture may not whip up well.

Is this drink suitable for those with lactose intolerance?
Yes, this Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai Latte can easily cater to those with lactose intolerance by using non-dairy alternatives. I often recommend oat milk or almond milk as they froth beautifully for your cold foam and maintain that rich flavor despite being dairy-free.