Iced Gingerbread Oat Milk Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat)

Starbucks isn’t the only place you can get a burst of holiday cheer. This holiday season, why not be the first to surprise your friends with a homemade Starbucks Iced Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai Latte Recipe? With this easy copycat recipe, you can make this new Starbucks holiday drink at home and enjoy its instant flavors all season long. It’s the perfect way to get into the spirit of the holidays!

What is an Iced Gingerbread Oat Milk Chai Tea Latte? 

Having enjoyed the pumpkin chai drink this fall, I was already excited about the idea of a gingerbread version before the official ingredients list was even published. Now that it’s out, and I’ve tried the actual drink, I was able to make a copycat version that tastes just like it!

So, what goes into this new chai drink at Starbucks? The company says it’s a blend of “warm gingerbread notes with a cozy blend of spices and creamy oat milk combined in a Tea Latte to create a unique, festive, feel-good moment”. From my experience, it’s a delightful mix of sweet, molasses-based gingerbread syrup, spiced chai tea concentrate, and creamy oat milk. The surprising part I saw on the ingredients list is that the drink is topped with pumpkin pie spice. Trust me, it works surprisingly well with this drink.

Here’s an interesting twist: Starbucks, instead of topping the chai with cold foam, opted for a dairy-free approach. They froth oat milk to top the drink, keeping it entirely plant-based. It’s fascinating to see how they’ve adapted their techniques. While the pumpkin sauce is incorporated into the cold foam for the pumpkin chai, here the gingerbread syrup is incorporated into the oat milk froth. Interestingly, it isn’t mixed into the drink itself, creating distinct layers of flavor.

However, there’s a catch. Oat milk doesn’t easily froth up, especially when syrup is added. I’ve seen many people complaining about this, including baristas who have to deal with unhappy customers. The texture can be hit or miss, which is why I’m giving you a few options for this drink.

Why You’ll Love This Latte?

This Starbucks-inspired gingerbread chai latte is even better than the holiday menu original. By using chai concentrate, oat milk, and homemade syrup at home, you’ll create an easy, healthier, and cheaper version without excessive sugar. You’ll love being able to make it at home. If you like the drink but prefer some alterations, you’ll be able to recreate your own version in your home kitchen.

1. It’s Quick and easy – you won’t believe how simple it is to whip up this flavor dynamo. No frother, espresso maker, or fancy tools are needed. The gingerbread syrup is a breeze to make at home, allowing you to enjoy this treat quickly, any time you want.
2. Delicious and delightful, the creamy oat milk perfectly complements the cinnamon and ginger-spiced Chai. The gingerbread syrup will send your taste buds on a holiday vacation. While some have seen people complaining that the Starbucks drink doesn’t taste strongly like gingerbread, when you make it at home, you can control the level of gingerbread flavor and sweetness.
3. It’s Budget-Friendly – you’ll save countless dollars by making this drink at home. One quart of chai concentrate purchased for this recipe makes about 8 individual lattes. Purchase the ingredients just once, and you can enjoy these lattes all week for a fraction of what you’d spend at Starbucks.
4. Nothing beats Homemade syrup – it’s even easier to make than you might think. You just need dark brown sugar, water, and a gingerbread spice mix. I’ve opted for ground spice instead of whole spices to keep things easier and avoid the extra cost of buying multiple kinds of whole spices. Plus, ground spices won’t settle at the bottom, so you won’t need to mix or stir the syrup constantly.
5. It’s Fun and Festive – top your iced gingerbread latte with whipped cream, a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice, or even some holiday sprinkles to make it extra special for Christmastime.

Iced Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai Ingredients Notes

For this iced chai recipe, I’ve carefully selected and made everything required. While the full ingredient list with exact amounts and instructions can be found in the recipe card, let me break down the key components for you:

1. Chai Concentrate: Starbucks doesn’t sell their chai tea concentrate, so I recommend using Tazo Chai Tea Concentrate. I like its sweetness, but note that all brands are a little different. If you use a concentrate you like, you’ll need to access and possibly adjust the sweetness. To avoid excess sugar, you could use strongly brewed chai. Most concentrates call for a 1:1 ratio of chai and milk, but check the label. Some might call for less chai, more milk. For reference, Starbucks uses Tazo Chai Concentrate.
2. Oat Milk: While you can use any milk you normally use for lattes, the original drink calls for oat milk. Almond milk works well for a dairy-free option, or you could use whole milk for a richer taste.
3. Gingerbread Syrup: I make my own using this recipe, but you can buy a bottle if you prefer. It’s made with dark brown sugar, water, and a gingerbread spice mix. I strongly recommend using dark brown sugar over regular to get that nice molasses flavor common in gingerbread cookies.
4. Toppings: Whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice are optional garnishes. You can use homemade or your favorite bottled whip – even coconut whipped cream for a dairy-free version. I prefer homemade pumpkin pie spices for their superior flavor over pre-mixed blends.

How to make Starbucks Iced Chai Tea Latte with Oat Milk

Once you’ve either made or bought your gingerbread syrup and have it ready, you can mix this iced latte in no time. Here’s how:

Fill a tall glass with ice. Then add the chai concentrate to the ice-filled glass. I use about 3 oz. of chai concentrate, but note that all brands are different. If the brand you’ve used seems too strong or too sweet at 3 oz, you may want to try experimenting with the amount.

Next, pour in 3 oz. of oat milk. Then, froth the remaining 3oz. of oat milk with 1 oz. of gingerbread syrup. You can either use an electric frother, hand mixer, blender, or even a jar to froth. Note that oat milk is not going to froth up like a cold cream would. Even if it does froth, the froth doesn’t last a long time.

When I made this, the froth didn’t last long once I poured it over the rest of the drink in the cup. I then sprinkled some pumpkin pie spice on top for added flavor and visual appeal.

Note: If you prefer, you can make the drink by mixing the chai concentrate and gingerbread syrup in a cup with ice, then pouring 6 oz. of oat milk on top. Be aware that the syrup might settle to the bottom of the cup more than when it’s incorporated into the froth. If this happens, just give it a good stir occasionally while you’re enjoying it.

To finish, top with a dusting of gingerbread spice or a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice. Optionally, add some whipped cream or even a small gingerbread cookie for decoration. Now, drink up and enjoy your homemade Starbucks-inspired treat!

Variations and Substitutions

While Starbucks’ drinks are intended to be enjoyed as they are, I’ve found that experimenting with these drinks can be quite rewarding. Substituting or adding different ingredients can lead to various flavors and personalized experiences. Here are some fun ideas for your Iced Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai Latte Starbucks:

1. You can make this with any type of dairy or non-dairy alternative. While oat milk complements the gingerbread flavor nicely, other types of milk might froth better. Try regular 2% milk, almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk (both sweetened and unsweetened varieties). Starbucks makes this drink with an oat milk cold foam, which can be easier to achieve if you mix in some regular or heavy cream. I find that oat milk is harder to froth into a cold foam. For an extra rich finish, try a splash of coconut milk before serving, but avoid using it entirely as it can be too rich.
2. If you don’t care about the froth, simply mix the gingerbread syrup and chai concentrate, then pour the oat milk on top. To make the oat milk froth, add some extra gingerbread syrup to it. I’ve made it this way a couple of times with great results.
3. Create your own chai concentrate for a more desired and additional dimensional-spice flavor. If you don’t have chai tea, brew some strong black tea (use 2-3 teabags per 1 cup of hot water) to make about 1 cup (for 2 servings).
4. You can make this drink hot or cold. To make it hot, gently warm the chai concentrate on the stove (there’s no need to boil, just wait until it’s close to a simmer). Steam or warm your milk, pour into a mug, and add the gingerbread syrup.
5. While Homemade gingerbread syrup is simple to make and boasts exceptional flavor, you can save time and dishes by using a store bought syrup if you prefer.
6. For extra gingerbread flavor, try adding more syrup on top of the drink or use a spice blend like pumpkin pie spice. You can also create a custom mix with ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, allspice, and cardamom. Go heavier on the ginger for a more pronounced gingerbread taste.
7. I’ve heard some people say that adding brown sugar syrup to the drink makes it even better. It adds depth to the sweetness and complements the gingerbread notes nicely.
8. To top with cold foam, use your favorite cold foam recipe and customize the flavor. Try adding gingerbread, salted caramel, or vanilla syrup to the foam. Alternatively, a dollop of whipped cream can add a luxurious touch.
9. Lining your cup with caramel sauce adds an extra layer of sweet deliciousness. It creates a beautiful presentation and enhances the overall flavor profile.
10. If you want extra caffeine and a nutty coffee flavor, make it a “dirty chai” by adding a shot or two of espresso. This adds complexity and a caffeinated kick to your drink.
11. To treat yourself to a gingerbread frappuccino, try blending all the ingredients in a high-speed blender until smooth. Pulse in some ice for a slushy texture, and add additional gingerbread syrup to taste.
12. For a delightfully dairy-free and vegan gingerbread latte, follow the recipe as directed but consider topping it with coconut whipped cream instead of traditional dairy whipped cream. This maintains the creamy texture while keeping it plant-based.

Serving Suggestions

1. Start your day off on the right foot by enjoying this latte with your morning paper or while solving your daily Wordle. It’s a quick alternative to visiting Starbucks and one of the best winter drinks to kickstart your day.
2. Power up for a great day by sipping these iced chai tea lattes alongside some hearty breakfast options. Try pairing it with overnight oats, fluffy pancakes, pumpkin protein muffins, or even some oatmeal protein cookies for a balanced and delicious morning meal.
3. Elevate your cookie decorating experience to new heights this holiday season. Serve these gingerbread chai lattes to your whole crew to enhance the holiday festivities while you decorate gingerbread houses or sugar cookies like Nutella cookies (my favorite).
4. For an adult twist, stir in a shot of bourbon, vanilla vodka, or a chai-infused liquor to create a boozy coffee drink that adults will love. It’s perfect for a relaxed weekend afternoon or as a pre-dinner drink.
5. These lattes make an excellent accompaniment to your favorite fall desserts. Serve them alongside pumpkin pie, gingerbread cookies, air fryer apple crisp, or your favorite fall pie to complete a seasonal, tasty treat. The spicy-sweet notes of the latte complement many autumn desserts beautifully.

Storing Instructions

This chai latte is best enjoyed right away to prevent the ice from melting and diluting the flavors. However, you can prepare some components in advance for quick assembly later.

The gingerbread syrup can be stored for up to 2 weeks in the fridge. This recipe makes about 10 servings, but you can easily half the ingredients for a smaller batch if you prefer. If you find yourself with extra syrup, you can freeze the leftovers in a silicone ice cube tray for future use. Keep in mind that the syrup will be harder to remove from the tray than plain ice cubes due to its high sugar content, so let it thaw slightly before use.

READ: Homemade Coffee Creamer

Recipe Success Tips

1. Cool Ingredients: To prevent the ice from melting too quickly and diluting your drink, make sure to cool all components beforehand. Refrigerate your gingerbread syrup, oat milk, and tea concentrate before assembling the latte. 
2. Ice to Taste: Scoop ice into your glasses according to your personal preference. If you enjoy drinks with a more concentrated flavor, use less ice. For a more diluted flavor or a longer-lasting cold drink, add more ice.
3. Mix Well: Thoroughly stir the gingerbread syrup, milk, and tea to ensure an evenly sweet flavor throughout the drink. This is especially important if you’re not using a frother, as the syrup can settle at the bottom. 
4. Measure Accurately: To guarantee that classic Starbucks flavor, focus on measuring your ingredients precisely. Even small variations in the ratios of syrup, milk, and chai concentrate can noticeably alter the taste. 

Conclusion

Whether you’re a devoted Starbucks fan or simply looking for a festive, homemade treat, this Iced Gingerbread Oat Milk Chai Latte recipe is sure to delight. It’s a cozy, comforting beverage that perfectly captures the holiday spirit, with its warming spices, sweet gingerbread notes, and creamy oat milk base. So, grab your ingredients and whip up a batch – your tastebuds will thank you!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I make gingerbread cold foam?

While Starbucks doesn’t offer a gingerbread cold foam for their drinks, you can easily make your own at home. Use this cold foam recipe and customize it by adding gingerbread syrup and spices. Some people even add a bit of pumpkin pie spice for extra flavor.

What does Starbucks use for Chai lattes?

For their chai lattes, Starbucks uses a chai tea concentrate, which is a pre-made mixture of black tea, spices, and sweeteners. They offer several varieties, including classic, vanilla, and spiced.

What brand of chai does Starbucks use?

Starbucks doesn’t publicly disclose the exact brand of chai they use, but it’s known to be a custom blend made exclusively for them. However, Tazo Chai Tea Concentrate is a popular alternative that many find tastes similar to the Starbucks version.

Does Starbucks still have the gingerbread latte?

As of now, Starbucks doesn’t have a classic gingerbread latte on their menu. However, they have introduced a new holiday drink for 2023 called the Iced Gingerbread Oat Milk Chai Tea Latte, which incorporates similar gingerbread flavors.

Is the Starbucks gingerbread oat milk chai tea latte seasonal?

Yes, the gingerbread chai latte Starbucks is a seasonal drink typically offered during the winter holiday season.

What is in Starbucks gingerbread oat milk chai latte?

The Starbucks gingerbread oat milk chai recipe contains gingerbread syrup, chai tea concentrate, oat milk, and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice on top. It’s finished with a layer of frothed oat milk for a creamy texture.

What does the iced gingerbread oatmilk chai latte taste like?

The drink has a warm, comforting flavor with notes of gingerbread, chai spices, and creamy oat milk. The pumpkin pie spice adds a subtle hint of warmth and spice.

Is iced gingerbread oatmilk chai seasonal?

Yes, the Iced Gingerbread Oat Milk Chai Tea Latte is a seasonal beverage offered by Starbucks during the winter holidays.

Does iced gingerbread oatmilk chai latte have caffeine?

Yes, it does contain caffeine because chai tea is made from black tea leaves. A grande size typically contains around 100mg of caffeine.

Are oat chai lattes healthy?

While oat milk is a good source of vitamins and minerals, and chai spices have potential health benefits, the Starbucks version of the Iced Gingerbread Oat Milk Chai Tea Latte contains a significant amount of sugar. You can make healthier versions at home by adjusting the sweetness and using homemade ingredients.

What does Starbucks gingerbread taste like?

Starbucks’ gingerbread flavor is a warm, sweet, and slightly spicy blend that evokes the taste of traditional gingerbread cookies. It typically includes notes of ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and molasses.

Does the Drink Have Caffeine?

Since chai tea is made with black tea, it will naturally have a little bit of caffeine. According to Starbucks, a grande Iced Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai Tea Latte has 100 mg of caffeine. For reference, a grande iced coffee from Starbucks has 165mg of caffeine. If you’d prefer, you can use a decaf chai tea concentrate to make this drink instead

How Much Sugar Does the Drink Have?

A grande size of the gingerbread drink has 45 grams of sugar, so it’s definitely not a low-sugar drink. But note that it’s less than the fall’s Iced Pumpkin Chai, which has 66 grams of sugar. Keep in mind that if you add more syrup or chai concentrate to your drink, the sugar levels will increase.

How to Make This Drink Lower Sugar?

People often find it surprising to learn that Starbucks chai tea drinks contain a lot of sugar. While people don’t generally think of tea as high in sugar, Starbucks adds a lot of sugar to its chai tea concentrate. If you want to lower the sugar in this drink, you can make chai tea using actual tea bags. I recommend using a couple of tea bags per cup of water to get a concentrated flavor.

If chai tea bags aren’t your thing, the next best option for making this drink would be to use a tea concentrate. To get enough chai flavor, add gingerbread simple syrup until you reach the sweetness level you like. If you want less gingerbread flavor, you can use honey, agave, or maple syrup to sweeten instead.

Another option is to use a lower-sugar chai tea concentrate, or you can also use less of your regular chai concentrate. Just want to keep in mind that the less you use, the less the chai flavor will be pronounced. You can also try a sugar-free gingerbread syrup.

What are Starbucks’ other holiday menu items? 

Starbucks isn’t only releasing the Iced Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai Latte, they also have a hot version of the gingerbread chai for the holidays.

Some other favorites coming back include the Iced Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte (also available hot!), Peppermint Mocha, Caramel Brulée Latte, Chestnut Praline Latte, and the Peppermint Mocha Frappuccino.

On the food side, the gingerbread loaf is back, along with the snowman cookie, cranberry bliss bars, peppermint brownie cake pops, and the sugar plum cheese danish.

Does Starbucks have oat milk lattes?

Yes, Starbucks offers a variety of oat milk lattes. They have both hot and iced versions of the classic Oat Milk Latte, as well as other flavored options like the Honey Oatmilk Latte and the Lavender Oatmilk Latte.

How to make Starbucks iced oat latte?

You can find an official recipe for a Starbucks-inspired Iced Brown Sugar Oat Latte on the Starbucks At Home website. The recipe includes espresso, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and oat milk.

How many calories in Starbucks chai tea latte with oat milk?

The calorie count for a Starbucks Chai Tea Latte with oat milk can vary depending on the size and any additional modifications. However, a grande (16 fl oz) Iced Chai Tea Latte with oat milk typically has around 240 calories. You can find the nutritional information for all Starbucks drinks on their website or mobile app.

Iced Gingerbread Oat Milk Chai Tea Latte (Starbucks Copycat)

Recipe by Raise Your GlassCourse: DrinksCuisine: American

Servings

1

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Calories

250

kcal

Total time

10

minutes

Enjoy the warm, festive flavors of Starbucks’ Iced Gingerbread Oat Milk Chai Tea Latte at home with this easy copycat recipe.

Ingredients

• 3 oz. chai tea concentrate

• 6 oz. oat milk, divided

• 1 oz. gingerbread syrup, store-bought or homemade

• Pumpkin pie spice, for topping

Directions

• Fill a tall glass with ice. Then add the chai concentrate to the ice-filled glass. I use about 3 oz. of chai concentrate, but note that all brands are different. If the brand you’ve used seems too strong or too sweet at 3 oz, you may want to try experimenting with the amount.
• Next, pour in 3 oz. of oat milk. Then, froth the remaining 3oz. of oat milk with 1 oz. of gingerbread syrup. You can either use an electric frother, hand mixer, blender, or even a jar to froth. Note that oat milk is not going to froth up like a cold cream would. Even if it does froth, the froth doesn’t last a long time.
• When I made this, the froth didn’t last long once I poured it over the rest of the drink in the cup. I then sprinkled some pumpkin pie spice on top for added flavor and visual appeal.
• Note: If you prefer, you can make the drink by mixing the chai concentrate and gingerbread syrup in a cup with ice, then pouring 6 oz. of oat milk on top. Be aware that the syrup might settle to the bottom of the cup more than when it’s incorporated into the froth. If this happens, just give it a good stir occasionally while you’re enjoying it.
• To finish, top with a dusting of gingerbread spice or a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice. Optionally, add some whipped cream or even a small gingerbread cookie for decoration. Now, drink up and enjoy your homemade Starbucks-inspired treat!