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Vanilla Chai Tea White Russian - Cozy, Spiced Twist on a Classic

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 oz vodka
  • 1 oz coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa)
  • 2 oz strong chai tea, cooled (brewed from a chai tea bag or loose-leaf)
  • 1–1.5 oz heavy cream or half-and-half (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2–3/4 tsp pure vanilla extract or 1/2 oz vanilla syrup
  • Ice (big cubes work best)
  • Optional garnish: ground cinnamon, freshly grated nutmeg, or a cinnamon stick

Method
 

  1. Brew the chai. Steep 1 chai tea bag in 3–4 oz of just-boiled water for 5–7 minutes for a strong brew. Remove the bag and let it cool completely. Cold tea prevents dilution.
  2. Chill your glass. Pop a rocks glass in the freezer for a few minutes to keep the drink colder and creamier.
  3. Build the base. Add vodka and coffee liqueur to the chilled glass over fresh ice.
  4. Add the chai and vanilla. Pour in the cooled chai tea and vanilla extract (or vanilla syrup). Stir gently to combine.
  5. Top with cream. Slowly float the cream over the back of a spoon to create a soft layer on top, or just pour and stir if you prefer an even mix.
  6. Garnish and serve. Finish with a light dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg, or rest a cinnamon stick on the rim. Sip and enjoy.