Make a copycat Starbucks Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai at home with this tasty fall drink recipe that tops an iced chai tea latte with a creamy layer of apple crisp cream cold foam. This drink is perfect for cozy afternoons or festive gatherings, bringing together the warm flavors of chai and apple in a refreshing iced treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of chai and apple brown sugar creates a delightful balance of spices and sweetness.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this drink in under 5 minutes.
- Customizable Options: Substitute dairy with plant-based alternatives to suit your preferences without sacrificing taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a sunny day or a chilly evening, this drink fits right in.
- Impressive Presentation: The creamy cold foam on top makes it not only tasty but visually appealing too.
Tools and Preparation
To create your Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai seamlessly, having the right tools handy is essential.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring Cups
- 16 oz Glass
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing Bowl: A chilled bowl helps achieve the right consistency for the cream cold foam.
- Whisk: Vital for aerating the cream mixture, ensuring it becomes light and fluffy.
- Measuring Cups: Accurate measurements guarantee the perfect balance of flavors in your drink.
- 16 oz Glass: A large glass allows enough space for ice and all components of your drink.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create your own Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai:
For the Chai Latte
- 1/2 cup concentrated chai
- 1/2 cup milk
- Ice, to fill glass
- 2 teaspoons apple brown sugar syrup
For the Apple Crisp Cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon milk, preferably whole or 2%
How to Make Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai (Starbucks Copycat)
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Crisp Cream
- Before making the apple crisp cream, place a small mixing bowl and whisk in the freezer for 10-15 minutes.
- In the chilled bowl, combine heavy cream, milk, and apple brown sugar syrup.
- Whisk until thick and creamy while keeping warm hands off the bowl as much as possible.
- Return the cream mixture to the freezer while you make the chai latte.
Step 2: Make the Chai Latte
- In a cup that holds 16 fluid ounces or more, combine chai tea concentrate and milk.
- Optionally add 1-2 tablespoons of apple brown sugar syrup for extra sweetness.
- Fill your cup with ice, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top.
Step 3: Assemble Your Drink
- Take out your whipped apple crisp cream from the freezer and whisk again until it thickens further to a consistency similar to melted ice cream.
- Slowly pour the apple crisp cream on top of your iced chai mixture.
- Optionally sprinkle with ground cinnamon for added flavor and aesthetics.
- Drink immediately to enjoy all its delicious flavors!
How to Serve Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai (Starbucks Copycat)
Serving your Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai is all about creating a delightful experience. Whether you’re enjoying it alone or with friends, these serving suggestions will enhance your drink.
With a Sprinkle of Cinnamon
- Garnish the drink with ground cinnamon for added flavor and a warm touch that complements the apple notes.
Pair with Crunchy Snacks
- Enjoy your chai with some crunchy snacks like apple chips or granola bars. These add texture and a satisfying crunch.
Serve in a Clear Glass
- A clear glass not only showcases the beautiful layers of your drink but also makes for an appealing presentation.
Add Fresh Apple Slices
- Top your drink with thin slices of fresh apple for an extra element of freshness and visual appeal.
Accompany with Soft Cookies
- Soft oatmeal or snickerdoodle cookies pair well, providing a sweet contrast to the chai’s spice.
How to Perfect Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai (Starbucks Copycat)
Perfecting your Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai takes just a few tips. Follow these suggestions for the best results.
- Use quality chai concentrate – A rich, flavorful concentrate makes all the difference in taste.
- Chill your utensils – Keeping bowls and whisks cold helps the cream whip up better and achieve that perfect texture.
- Experiment with syrups – Try different flavored syrups to customize your drink; caramel or vanilla can add unique twists.
- Choose the right milk – Use whole milk or barista oat milk for a creamier texture that enhances your drink’s richness.
- Serve immediately – For optimal taste and texture, enjoy your chai right after preparation to maintain its refreshing qualities.
Best Side Dishes for Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai (Starbucks Copycat)
Pairing side dishes with your Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai can elevate your beverage experience. Here are some tasty options to consider.
- Cinnamon Roll Bites – Soft, gooey bites that add sweetness and spice, perfect alongside the warmth of chai.
- Apple Scones – Flaky scones filled with apples provide a delightful complement while balancing flavors.
- Granola Parfait – Layered yogurt, granola, and fruit create a refreshing treat that enhances your chai experience.
- Mini Pumpkin Muffins – Spiced pumpkin muffins introduce seasonal flavors that harmonize beautifully with chai.
- Cheese Crackers – A platter of assorted cheese crackers offers savory contrast, heightening the overall flavor profile.
- Fruit Salad – A mix of fresh seasonal fruits brings brightness to the table, refreshing after each sip of chai.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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When making your apple crisp cream, avoid over-whisking. This can lead to a consistency that’s too thick or grainy. Instead, whisk just until thick enough to hold its shape.
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Don’t forget the chai concentrate! Using regular chai tea instead of concentrate will dilute the flavor. Always use a concentrated version for the best taste.
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Skipping the freezer step for your bowl and whisk can affect the cream’s thickness. Make sure to chill them for at least 10-15 minutes before mixing.
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Be cautious with syrup quantities. Adding too much apple brown sugar syrup can overpower the drink’s flavor. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
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Avoid using non-dairy substitutes that are not barista-approved. These may not whip up properly for your cold foam. Stick to oat milk or other suitable options for the best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Best enjoyed within 2 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai (Starbucks Copycat)
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
- Can be kept frozen for up to 1 month.
Reheating Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai (Starbucks Copycat)
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and warm in an oven-safe cup for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 20-30 seconds, stirring in between until warmed.
- Stovetop: Gently heat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai (Starbucks Copycat)?
Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai (Starbucks Copycat) is a refreshing fall-inspired drink made by topping iced chai tea with creamy apple crisp flavored cold foam.
How can I customize my Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai?
You can customize this drink by adjusting the sweetness, using different types of milk (like almond or coconut), or adding spices like nutmeg or cloves.
Can I make this drink dairy-free?
Yes! Simply substitute dairy milk and heavy cream with barista-edition oat milk or any other plant-based alternatives that froth well.
How long does it take to make Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai?
This delightful drink takes only about 5 minutes to prepare, making it a quick option for busy mornings or afternoon treats!
Final Thoughts
The Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai (Starbucks Copycat) is an easy and delicious way to enjoy fall flavors at home. Its creamy texture and spiced notes offer versatility, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences. Whether you want a sweeter version or prefer a little extra spice, we encourage you to try this recipe today!
Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai (Starbucks Copycat)
Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with this Iced Apple Crisp Cream Chai, a delightful homemade version of your favorite seasonal drink. This refreshing iced chai latte is topped with a creamy apple crisp cold foam, blending warm spices and sweet apple notes for a perfect treat. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet afternoon or hosting friends, this easy-to-make beverage will impress with its delightful taste and stunning presentation. Best of all, this recipe allows for customization to suit your dietary preferences while capturing the essence of autumn in every sip.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Total Time: 0 minute
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup concentrated chai
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- Ice
- 2 teaspoons apple brown sugar syrup
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (or plant-based alternative)
- 1 tablespoon milk (preferably whole or 2%)
Instructions
- Chill a mixing bowl and whisk in the freezer for 10-15 minutes.
- In the chilled bowl, whisk together heavy cream, milk, and apple brown sugar syrup until thick and creamy.
- In a 16 oz glass, combine chai concentrate and milk; add additional apple brown sugar syrup if desired.
- Fill the glass with ice, leaving some space at the top.
- Whisk the cream mixture again until it thickens further; pour over the iced chai.
- Optionally sprinkle with ground cinnamon for added flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Use quality chai concentrate for better flavor. Store any leftover drink in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Customize by adding different flavored syrups or spices according to your taste.