When the sun shines brightly and the days stretch longer, there’s nothing quite like sipping a refreshingly spiced drink to cool off. I recently found myself craving something new and exciting, so I decided to channel my inner barista and create my own version of Starbucks’ Light Apple Tea Inspired Iced Apple Crisp Chai. Imagine biting into a crisp apple on a warm day—the sweet, juicy flavors effortlessly mingle with warm chai spices like cinnamon, warming your soul with every sip.
This deliciously refreshing beverage is more than just a drink; it’s a comforting experience you can customize with your favorite nondairy milks and syrup variations. Whether you’re unwinding after a long day or hosting a brunch with friends, this iced chai is the perfect blend of cozy and invigorating. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delightful drink, making those fast-food routines a thing of the past. Grab your ingredients, and let’s create something special together!
Why will you love this Deliciously Refreshing Starbucks Light Apple Tea Inspired Iced Apple Crisp Chai?
Comforting fusion: Experience the delightful blend of warming chai spices and sweet apple flavors that transform your typical iced beverage.
Customizable delight: Cater to your personal taste with various nondairy milk and syrup options, making every sip unique.
Seasonal favorite: Perfect for both sunny afternoons and cozy evenings, this drink adapts to any occasion to keep you refreshed.
Easy to make: With simple steps, you’ll be crafting this refreshing chai in no time, leaving behind fast-food alternatives.
Great for gatherings: Impress friends and family alike at brunch or casual get-togethers with this crowd-pleasing drink.
Flavorful twist: Add layers of richness with homemade syrup for an enhanced experience that elevates your sipping game! Enjoy it alongside a warm slice of Cozy Apple Crumble for an unforgettable treat!
Deliciously Refreshing Apple Chai Ingredients
For the Chai Base
- Chai Tea Concentrate – A comforting spice base; opt for a high-quality brand for better flavor.
- Oat Milk (4 oz) – Adds creaminess without dairy; substitute with almond or coconut milk if desired.
For the Nondairy Apple Crisp Cold Foam
- Soy Milk (¾ cup) – Contributes to cold foam creaminess; use almond milk as an alternative.
- Nondairy Apple Crisp Cold Foam (3 oz) – Topping for added texture and flavor; homemade from various milks and syrups.
For the Apple Brown Sugar Syrup
- Apple Brown Sugar Syrup (3 tbsp) – Sweetens the drink with apple flavor; enhance with caramel or maple syrup for a twist.
- Water (1 cup) – Base for syrup; ensure freshness for best results.
- Packed Brown Sugar (1 cup) – Key sweetener for syrup, adds depth; choose light or dark depending on taste preference.
- Sliced Apples (2 cups) – Infuses syrup with flavor; choose your favorite apple variety.
- Ground Cinnamon (½ tsp) – Boosts the drink’s spice profile; add nutmeg or cardamom for additional warmth.
Now you’re all set to create this deliciously refreshing Starbucks Light Apple Tea Inspired Iced Apple Crisp Chai in the comfort of your home!
How to Make Deliciously Refreshing Starbucks Light Apple Tea Inspired Iced Apple Crisp Chai
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Prepare Chai Base: Fill an ice-filled glass with 3 oz of chai concentrate and top it with 4 oz of creamy oat milk. Mix gently until the colors blend seamlessly.
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Create Cold Foam: In a mason jar, combine ¾ cup soy milk, 3 oz oat milk, and 3 tbsp apple brown sugar syrup. If you like, add optional lecithin and protein, then shake vigorously until frothy.
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Froth Mixture: Using an electric frother, hand mixer, or blender, whip the mixture until you achieve a delightful, thick cold foam. It should be creamy and light.
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Make the Syrup: In a saucepan, mix 1 cup packed brown sugar, 1 cup of water, 2 cups sliced apples, and ½ tsp ground cinnamon. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes until it thickens.
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Strain Syrup: Carefully press the apples with a spoon to extract the juice, then strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl, discarding any solids.
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Assemble Drink: Pour the freshly made apple brown sugar syrup into the chai base, gently mix to combine, then top it off with the luscious cold foam. Serve immediately for the best flavor!
Optional: Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch of spice.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Deliciously Refreshing Starbucks Light Apple Tea Inspired Iced Apple Crisp Chai
Fridge: Store leftover iced chai in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the chai gently or enjoy it cold—your choice!
Syrup Storage: Keep any remaining apple brown sugar syrup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Reheat gently before adding it back to your iced chai.
Freezer: If you want to freeze the apple brown sugar syrup, pour it into ice cube trays and freeze for easy use later. Just remember to thaw it when you’re ready to elevate your drinks again!
Reheating: Gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before using if the syrup or chai is cold. Enjoy the delightful flavors of your deliciously refreshing iced apple chai!
What to Serve with Deliciously Refreshing Starbucks Light Apple Tea Inspired Iced Apple Crisp Chai?
Indulging in this delightful iced chai opens up a world of pairing possibilities, turning your drink into a full experience.
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Cinnamon Roll Waffles: These fluffy waffles topped with icing bring warmth and sweetness, elevating your chai’s spiced notes.
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Honey Glazed Carrots: The subtle sweetness and roasted flavors of these carrots harmonize beautifully, adding a fresh element to your meal.
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Spiced Apple Oatmeal Cookies: Chewy cookies bursting with apple goodness mirror the drink’s flavors, making for a perfect treat alongside your chai.
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Caramel Pecan Muffins: With their buttery tops and nutty crunch, these muffins create a delightful contrast that complements every sip of your chai.
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Seasonal Fruit Salad: Refreshing and vibrant, this medley of fresh fruits lightens up the palate between sips, enhancing the drink’s fruity essence.
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Chai-Spiced Almond Croissant: Flaky pastries filled with almond paste and a hint of chai spices offer a cozy pairing to deepen your tea experience.
Combine any of these charming options with your homemade iced apple chai for a delightful spread that will keep your taste buds dancing!
Make Ahead Options
These deliciously refreshing Starbucks Light Apple Tea Inspired Iced Apple Crisp Chai are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the apple brown sugar syrup up to up to 3 days in advance; simply combine the packed brown sugar, water, sliced apples, and cinnamon in a saucepan, then strain and refrigerate the cooled syrup in an airtight container. To maintain its flavor, ensure it stays tightly sealed. You can also froth the cold foam (soy and oat milk mixture) up to 24 hours ahead—just give it a quick shake before serving. When it’s time to enjoy, mix the chai base and pour the syrup, topping it off with your fresh cold foam for a drink that’s just as delicious, but saves you precious time during busy days!
Deliciously Refreshing Chai Variations
Feel free to make this recipe your own by experimenting with different flavors and ingredients!
- Dairy-Free: Swap oat milk and soy milk for almond or coconut milk for a creamy alternative.
- Flavor Boost: Try maple or caramel syrup instead of apple brown sugar syrup for a new taste adventure.
- Seasonal Spices: Incorporate nutmeg or cardamom for an extra warming element that complements the chai beautifully.
- Apple Variety: Use different apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji to change up the flavor profile of your syrup.
- Vanilla Twist: Add a splash of vanilla extract to the cold foam for a delightful aromatic enhancement.
- Spicy Kick: For an unexpected heat, include a pinch of cayenne or ground ginger in your syrup.
- Ice Cream Delight: Top your iced chai with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for an indulgent treat on hot days!
- Chocolate Drizzle: Finish with a drizzle of chocolate syrup to create a sweet, dessert-like version of this refreshing chai.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility—let your creativity shine through each variation!
Expert Tips for Deliciously Refreshing Starbucks Light Apple Tea Inspired Iced Apple Crisp Chai
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Choose Quality Chai: Use a high-quality chai tea concentrate for a robust and flavorful base that makes your iced chai shine.
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Milk Matters: Experiment with different nondairy options like almond or coconut milk to discover which pairs best with the apple flavors.
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Syrup Simplification: If short on time, skip the cold foam and just add extra apple brown sugar syrup directly to the chai for sweetness.
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Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh apples and spices for the syrup; they significantly enhance the overall depth and flavor of your drink.
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Chill Crafts: Be sure to chill your glasses and ice properly to maintain that refreshing, cool experience with each sip of your deliciously refreshing iced apple chai.
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Storage Tip: Leftover apple brown sugar syrup can be kept in the fridge for up to a week; just reheat gently before using to revitalize its rich flavor.
Deliciously Refreshing Starbucks Light Apple Tea Inspired Iced Apple Crisp Chai Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best apples for the syrup?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, select apples that are firm and sweet, like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala. These varieties provide a juicy sweetness that enhances the syrup’s flavor profile. Avoid apples with dark spots or blemishes, as they might taste off.
How should I store leftover iced chai?
I recommend storing any leftover iced chai in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You could also enjoy it cold, or heat it gently on the stove. Just ensure it’s properly sealed to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze the apple brown sugar syrup? If so, how?
Yes! To freeze the apple brown sugar syrup, pour it into ice cube trays in 1-2 tablespoon portions and freeze. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw the desired amount whenever you want to elevate your drinks again!
What should I do if my cold foam isn’t frothing?
No worries! If your cold foam isn’t frothing up nicely, check that your milk is cold and fresh, as this helps with frothing. You can use an electric frother, hand mixer, or even a blender! Shaking in a jar works too, just ensure you shake vigorously for about a minute, and you should see a significant improvement.
Is this drink safe for those with allergies?
Yes, but always check ingredient labels. For instance, if someone has a soy allergy, substitute the soy milk with almond or oat milk. Similarly, ensure that the syrups and chai concentrate don’t contain allergens. Customizing your drinks while being cautious about allergies can help everyone enjoy this deliciously refreshing iced apple chai!
How long will the syrup last in the fridge?
The apple brown sugar syrup can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before using it again to bring back its rich flavor.
Deliciously Refreshing Starbucks Light Apple Tea Iced Chai Bliss
Equipment
- Mason Jar
- Saucepan
- Fine mesh sieve
- Electric Frother
Ingredients
Chai Base
- 3 oz Chai Tea Concentrate A comforting spice base; opt for a high-quality brand for better flavor.
- 4 oz Oat Milk Adds creaminess without dairy; substitute with almond or coconut milk if desired.
Nondairy Apple Crisp Cold Foam
- ¾ cup Soy Milk Contributes to cold foam creaminess; use almond milk as an alternative.
- 3 oz Nondairy Apple Crisp Cold Foam Topping for added texture and flavor; homemade from various milks and syrups.
Apple Brown Sugar Syrup
- 3 tbsp Apple Brown Sugar Syrup Sweetens the drink with apple flavor; enhance with caramel or maple syrup for a twist.
- 1 cup Water Base for syrup; ensure freshness for best results.
- 1 cup Packed Brown Sugar Key sweetener for syrup, adds depth; choose light or dark depending on taste preference.
- 2 cups Sliced Apples Infuses syrup with flavor; choose your favorite apple variety.
- ½ tsp Ground Cinnamon Boosts the drink's spice profile; add nutmeg or cardamom for additional warmth.
Instructions
Preparation
- Fill an ice-filled glass with 3 oz of chai concentrate and top it with 4 oz of creamy oat milk. Mix gently until the colors blend seamlessly.
- In a mason jar, combine ¾ cup soy milk, 3 oz oat milk, and 3 tbsp apple brown sugar syrup. If you like, add optional lecithin and protein, then shake vigorously until frothy.
- Using an electric frother, hand mixer, or blender, whip the mixture until you achieve a delightful, thick cold foam. It should be creamy and light.
- In a saucepan, mix 1 cup packed brown sugar, 1 cup of water, 2 cups sliced apples, and ½ tsp ground cinnamon. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes until it thickens.
- Carefully press the apples with a spoon to extract the juice, then strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl, discarding any solids.
- Pour the freshly made apple brown sugar syrup into the chai base, gently mix to combine, then top it off with the luscious cold foam. Serve immediately for the best flavor!
Notes
Nutrition
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