Chai latte comfort meets espresso boldness. Cozy, caffeinated, and dangerously sippable.
Move over, pumpkin spice—there’s a new star in your mug. The Dirty Chai has been thriving in cafés for years, but it’s ridiculously easy to make at home. Consider it the love child of tea and coffee: warm chai spices, creamy milk, and a bold shot of espresso to kick your day into gear.
What Is Dirty Chai Made Of?
At its core, a dirty chai is simply:
- A chai latte (spiced black tea + milk)
- One shot of espresso (or two if you like to live dangerously)
That combo gives you creamy, spiced comfort with a caffeinated punch. Make it the classic way with our favorites:
What Is the “Dirty” in Dirty Chai?
The “dirty” part refers to the espresso shot that “muddies” your otherwise pure chai latte. One shot = dirty. Two shots = double dirty. (No judgment.)
What’s the Difference Between Chai and Dirty Chai?
- Chai Latte: Black tea brewed with chai spices (cinnamon, cardamom, clove, ginger) + milk. Comforting and aromatic.
- Dirty Chai Latte: Everything above plus a shot of espresso. Same cozy flavor profile with extra body and caffeine.
Choose chai for zen; choose dirty chai for “I have a to-do list and a playlist.”
Are Chai and Chocolate Good Together?
Absolutely. Chai’s warm spice blends beautifully with chocolate’s rich, bittersweet notes—like a hug that also winks at you. If you love that pairing, you’ll flip for our seasonal Dirty Chocolate Chai Coffee—a medium roast with chai spice and chocolate notes baked right in. It’s air-roasted with 100% solar power for a clean, smooth cup.
How to Make a Classic Dirty Chai at Home
Hot Dirty Chai
- Brew strong chai: Use 1 tbsp of Masala Chai per 8 oz water. Steep 5–7 minutes.
- Pull espresso: 1 shot (or 2) of All Jacked Up.
- Combine: 6 oz hot chai + 1–2 oz espresso.
- Add milk: 4–6 oz steamed milk (dairy or alt). Sweeten to taste.
- Optional: Dust with cinnamon or cocoa.
Iced Dirty Chai
- Cold-brew or hot-brew then chill a strong concentrate of Masala Chai.
- Add espresso (1–2 shots of All Jacked Up).
- Ice + milk: Pour over ice, top with cold milk or cold foam. Sweeten as desired.
Want the Cheat Code?
Not in the mood to steep, pull, and froth? Skip the barista routine and brew our Dirty Chocolate Chai Coffee. Same cozy spice vibes with a chocolate twist—just brew like normal coffee (hot or iced) and you’re done. It’s air-roasted with 100% solar power for a clean, bold cup.
Dirty Chai FAQs
What is the “dirty” in dirty chai?
Are chai and chocolate good together?
What’s the difference between chai and dirty chai?
What is dirty chai made of?
