Brunch & Batter

  • Subscribe
menu icon
go to homepage
  • About Me
  • Recipes
  • Work With Me
subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • About Me
  • Recipes
  • Work With Me
×
  • Lavender lemonade in a glass with a wooden sign.
    Refreshing Lavender Lemonade
  • A close up of brownies on a white surface.
    Fudgy Valrhona Chocolate Brownies
  • Angled view of savory French toast with a fried egg on top over greens.
    Savory French Toast with Parmesan, Lemon & Herbs
  • Close up of asparagus leek soup in a white bowl over a yellow striped linen.
    Creamy Asparagus Leek Soup
  • Close up of a banana smoothie in a clear jug with a straw.
    Creamy Banana Date Smoothie
  • Close up of mushroom toast on parchment paper.
    Wild Mushroom Tartine
  • Lavender rhubarb cake on a white plate surrounded by flowers.
    Rhubarb and Lavender Cake
  • Overhead close up of scrambled eggs in a blue skillet.
    Buttermilk Scrambled Eggs
  • Close up of pesto salad in a beige bowl on a wood surface.
    Orzo Pesto Salad
  • A sack of banana pancakes with banana topping on a grey plate with bananas in the background.
    Banana Bread Pancakes with Banana Compote
  • Slice of chocolate chip cake on a pink surface with chips in the background.
    Chocolate Chip Loaf Cake
  • Stack of green chili cheddar waffles with honey dripping down them.
    Green Chili Cheddar Waffles
Home » Recipes » Smoothies, Drinks and Cocktails

Brown Sugar Shaken Chai Tea

Published: Jul 4, 2023 by Jennifer

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Have you ever tried the brown sugar shaken espresso from Starbucks? If you have, then you know this sweet, foamy drink is as refreshing as it is addicting. This Brown Sugar Shaken Chai Tea is a play on the coffee shop favorite. Instead of espresso, you add concentrated chai tea, homemade brown sugar simple syrup, and a touch of cinnamon.

Milk being poured into a clear mug with chai tea.

If you have been following my blog, you probably know that I just hate coffee. But I love all the coffee-flavored things. Despite my hatred toward coffee, I just had to try the Starbucks Shaken Espresso and see what all the fuss was about. And of course, I needed to do my research. Like why is it so dang good?

What I learned in my extensive (gulp, gulp...) research, (aside from the fact that I am not meant to drink 2 shots of espresso-hello hyper Jenn!), is that the foam is all the rage. And let's be honest-it's just plain fun! So I sought to create a chai tea version, for all the chai lovers out there (like me)! And so the brown sugar shaken chai tea was born.

What makes the drink special is the aeration from all the shaking, along with the dilution and chilling that gives this tea drink its light, frothy smoothness. Topping it off with milk helps to stabilize the foam, and adds another layer of frothy goodness.

So if you want to feel like a barista, (and save a few bucks), then you have to give this easy chai tea drink a try!

Jump to:
  • What is chai tea?
  • So isn't this just a chai latte?
  • Ingredients
  • Equipment needed
  • How to make a brown sugar shaken chai tea
  • 💡Top tip
  • Substitutions
  • Make ahead
  • FAQ
  • Related recipes
  • 📖Recipe

What is chai tea?

Chai tea is black tea infused with cinnamon, cloves, and other warm spices such as allspice, cardamom, ginger, and often ground peppercorn. Commercial chai teas differ in the amounts of spice, the type of spice used and even the type of tea, but all produce a deliciously warm and inviting cup of tea that is very popular.

Chai tea naturally contains caffeine, but caffeine-free varieties are available.

So isn't this just a chai latte?

Although the ingredients are similar, the technique for making the two are very different. A chai tea latte combines equal parts chai tea concentrate, and milk, and can be made hot or iced.

In this shaken version, chai tea, brown sugar syrup and ice are mixed in a cocktail shaker, which allows microbubbles to form and produce a foamy top. In the shaken version, milk is added after shaking and adds a creamy, frothy finish.

Ingredients

Don't let a cocktail shaker scare you- this drink is very easy to make. Just a few ingredients and some ice, and you are a few minutes away from becoming a barista!

Chai concentrate in a small measuring cup on a brown surface.
  • Chai tea bags- Easy to find anywhere, choose your favorite brand. Two of my favorites are Tazo and Stash. It may be tempting to use chai concentrate, but these often contain sugar and milk powders already mixed in. If you have chai concentrate and want to use it, I would omit the brown sugar syrup, or cut back to only 1 tablespoon.
  • Brown sugar syrup- Just dark brown sugar and water combined over heat until the sugar is dissolved and thickens slightly. Instructions are included below. You can use commercial-bought brown sugar syrup if you wish.
  • Cinnamon- Ground cinnamon is a must and adds some extra warmth to the drink.
  • Milk- Use your milk of choice to top the drink.
  • Ice

See recipe card for quantities.

Equipment needed

To shake the chai tea, you can either use a cocktail shaker or a mason jar with a tight-fitting lid. A mason jar is convenient, because then you can finish the drink right in the jar. Easy clean up!

Try to avoid using anything that might have leftover food odors (like plastic containers), to ensure no food odors seep into your drink.

Lastly, this chai drink makes about 12 ounces, (without the milk), so grab a glass large enough to hold the liquid.

How to make a brown sugar shaken chai tea

Follow these steps for an easy chai drink in just a few minutes.

Chai concentrate being poured into a mug with ice.

Brew the tea. Place 4 tea bags in a heat-proof container with 1 cup of boiling water. I use a heatproof 1-cup glass measuring cup. Let steep for 15 minutes.

A hand shaking a mason jar mug with ice, sugar, and chai tea.

In a lidded mason jar or cocktail shaker, add 3 tbsps. of brown sugar syrup, half of the tea concentrate, 2 dashes of cinnamon, and ice. Shake vigorously for 30 seconds.

Brown sugar shaken chai tea in a glass mug with a handle.

Pour the mixture into a glass. Look at that foam!

Milk being poured into a clear mug with chai tea.

Top with milk, and add a dash of cinnamon to the top. Drink immediately.

When removing your steeped tea bags from the hot water, be sure to squeeze the excess liquid out. You will still be left with less volume than you started with, but that's ok! You will get some dilution from the ice hitting the hot tea to make up for it.

If you want to make sure your drink is extra cold, try freezing your glass first.

💡Top tip

If using a cocktail shaker, make sure not to strain the liquid out or you will lose the foam that you just created! Instead, pop the top, and pour the drink into a glass and then top with milk.

Substitutions

Here are a couple of variations you can try to make it your own.

  • Oat milk- Feel free to use oat milk just like the Starbucks version.
  • You can infuse your brown sugar syrup with a cinnamon stick or add a dash of vanilla extract for even more spice.
  • You can use light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar when making the syrup, just note it won't be as rich, since light brown sugar contains less molasses than dark brown sugar.
  • If you want to use store-bought chai concentrate, you may need to omit the brown sugar syrup or decrease the amount used. This might take some experimenting depending on the sweetness of your concentrate and your desired final level of sweetness.
  • If you want to try the original espresso version, just swap out the chai tea for 2 shots of freshly brewed espresso.
  • Add eggnog, for a festive spin and easy chai eggnog drink.
Close-up brown sugar shaken chai drink in a glass mug.

Make ahead

This shaken brown sugar chai tea drink is meant to be enjoyed right away, but you can certainly make it even easier by preparing the brown sugar simple syrup and the chai concentrate in advance. If you want to enjoy these delicious drinks anytime, then I definitely recommend you make the syrup and tea in advance.

The brown sugar syrup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to one month. It can also be enjoyed in regular coffee, tea, and cocktails.

The chai concentrate can be made ahead and stored in a glass pitcher or jar for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Cinnamon being dusted on a brown sugar chai iced tea.
Brown sugar shaken chai tea in a glass mug with ilk and a green straw.

FAQ

Is masala chai and chai the same?

Masala chai is tea made with a combination of spices and is popular in Indian cuisines. It translates to "spiced tea", and both terms are often used interchangeably in Western cultures.

What kind of milk is best with chai?

You can use any milk to fit your diet and preferences. Experimenting with different milk is the best way to find what works best.

Can I stir instead of shake?

Nope. You will not get that signature foam you need that sets this drink apart.

Related recipes

Here are some other chai-inspired fall recipes that you may love.

  • Pumpkin waffles stacked on a plate with maple syrup and cinnamon on a wooden surface.
    Belgian Style Pumpkin Spice Waffles
  • Chai Moscow mule in a copper mug with a cinnamon stick on fire.
    Chai Moscow Mule with Burnt Cinnamon
  • Close-up of apple and pear sangria in a glass.
    Spiced Apple and Pear White Sangria
  • Chai pancakes stacked with cinnamon and maple syrup.
    Double Chai Spiced Pancakes

Did you make this recipe? I would love to hear about it! Please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating with a comment right below the recipe card. If you snap a photo of your creation, don't forget to tag me on Instagram @brunchandbatter.

📖Recipe

Milk being poured into a clear mug with chai tea.

Brown Sugar Shaken Chai Tea

Have you ever tried the brown sugar shaken espresso from Starbucks? If you have, then you know this sweet, foamy drink is refreshing as it is addicting. This Brown Sugar Shaken Chai Tea is a play on this coffee shop favorite. Instead of espresso, you add concentrated chai tea, homemade brown sugar simple syrup, and a touch of cinnamon.
5 from 2 votes
Prevent your screen from going dark
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 0 minutes mins
Total Time 20 minutes mins
Course Drinks
Cuisine American
Servings 1
Calories 201 kcal

Equipment

  • cocktail shaker or mason jar with lid

Ingredients
 

  • 4 standard chai tea bags
  • 1 cup hot water
  • 3 tablespoon brown sugar syrup recipe below
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, plus extra for garnishing
  • 1½ cups ice
  • milk of choice

Brown Sugar Syrup

  • 1 cup dark brown sugar
  • 1 cup water

Instructions
 

  • Make the tea concentrate:
    Combine 1 cup of hot water and the 4 tea bags in a heat-proof glass. Let stand for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, remove the tea bags, squeezing out as much liquid as you can. Set aside to cool slightly.
    4 standard chai tea bags, 1 cup hot water
  • In a cocktail shaker or lidded glass jar, add the brown sugar syrup, tea concentrate, cinnamon, and ice. Cover and shake vigorously for 30 seconds. (If using a cocktail shaker- do not strain the liquid, pour it out instead).
    3 tablespoon brown sugar syrup, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, plus extra for garnishing, 1½ cups ice
  • Add the contents to a drinking glass. Top with milk and an additional dusting of cinnamon if using. Serve immediately.
    milk of choice

Brown Sugar Simple Syrup

  • In a medium saucepan, whisk the brown sugar and water. Simmer the mixture over medium heat until the sugar is completely dissolved, stirring once or twice. Remove from the heat and set aside to cool slightly.
    1 cup dark brown sugar, 1 cup water

Notes

  1. One serving equals about 12 ounces with the foam (before adding the milk).
  2. The tea concentrate can be made ahead. Pour it into a glass container and place it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  3. The brown sugar syrup can be made ahead and stored in a glass jar in the refrigerator for up to one month. Use it in coffee, tea, lattes, and cocktails!
 

Nutrition*

Serving: 1 drink (no milk)Calories: 201kcalCarbohydrates: 55.7gProtein: 0.2gFat: 0.1gSodium: 5mgPotassium: 20mgFiber: 2.4gSugar: 51.6gCalcium: 46mg

*Nutrition information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. Nutrition information can vary depending on many factors, such as products used, measurements and substitutions, therefore it is recommended that you obtain nutritional calculations based on your own finished recipe.

Have you tried this recipe?Leave a comment below and share a photo on Instagram. Tag @brunchandbatter or hashtag it with #brunchandbatter

More Smoothie, Unique Drink and Cocktail Recipes

  • Bourbon Bloody Mary with Bacon
  • Pistachio martini on a black tray.
    White Chocolate Pistachio Martini
  • Three glasses of watermelon water by the window.
    Fresh Watermelon Water
  • Close-up of blackberry soda in a clear glass with ice and lime.
    Sparkling Blackberry Soda

Comments

    5 from 2 votes (1 rating without comment)

    Thanks for brunching! Let me know what you think: Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




  1. Anne Olsen says

    July 05, 2023 at 3:53 pm

    i hope this isn’t a silly question- can this be created as a hot drink also?

    Reply
    • Jennifer says

      July 06, 2023 at 5:01 pm

      Not silly at all. No, the ice helps create the foam. You could use brown sugar syrup in the hot tea, and then add milk for a chai latte.

      Reply
  2. KB says

    August 10, 2024 at 8:10 am

    5 stars
    This recipe is delicious and so easy to make! I followed the measurements but instead used 1/2 cup of tazo premade chai concentrate. Super yummy!

    Reply
    • Jennifer says

      August 10, 2024 at 8:30 am

      I love the Tazo chai concentrate- good choice! Thanks for giving it a try!

      Reply
Author looking at the camera holding eggs.

About Jennifer

Oh hey there! I'm Jennifer, the recipe developer, blogger, and food photographer behind Brunch and Batter. I've been a seasoned home cook (and nurse) for over 25 years, specializing in unique breakfast recipes, updated lunch classics, and simple, no-fuss desserts. I'm so glad you found me! Read more...

Popular Recipes

  • Close-up of berry granola in a clear mason jar on a wood surface.
    Mixed Berry Granola
  • Three date muffins on a textured pan with brown sugar and dates.
    Brown Sugar Date Muffins
  • Lemon pizzelles stacked on top of each other on white wood with lemon in the background.
    Easy Lemon Pizzelle
  • Close-up of goat cheese-scrambled eggs on a white plate.
    Goat Cheese Scrambled Eggs

Egg-Free Breakfast Ideas

  • Close-up of a cheddar and sage biscuit on a white plate.
    Savory Cheddar and Sage Biscuits
  • Overhead and close-up view of lemon ricotta toast on white parchment paper.
    Lemon Ricotta Raspberry Toast
  • Breakfast banana split with yogurt with fresh fruit and nuts.
    Brûlée Banana Split with Yogurt
  • Candied bacon with rosemary on a wire rack.
    Rosemary and Fig Candied Bacon

Subscribe for free to receive my latest recipes!

Subscribe

* indicates required
 
 

Footer


↑ back to top

About

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms & Conditions

Newsletter

  • Sign Up for recipes

Contact

  • Work with Me
  • Portfolio

Copyright © 2025 Brunch and Batter

Rate This Recipe

Your vote:




A rating is required
A name is required
An email is required

Recipe Ratings without Comment

Something went wrong. Please try again.