Chai lattes are some of the tastiest drinks around. Spicy, sweet, and creamy, they’re the full flavor package! But how much caffeine is in a chai latte, and how does it compare to coffee and espresso? Here’s what you should know before you head to the coffee shop or start brewing that chai. The answers may surprise you!
How much caffeine is in chai
The only ingredient in chai that contains caffeine is black tea. Black tea leaves come from the Camellia sinensis plant and typically contain about 47 milligrams of caffeine per serving. So in an eight-ounce cup of chai, you can expect about 47 milligrams of caffeine.
The Various Types of Chai Lattes
There are many different types of chai lattes that you can try. Depending on what ingredients are used, the caffeine content may vary greatly. Here is a list of some popular variations:
- Classic Chai Latte – A classic chai latte has a blend of black tea, spices such as cardamom, cloves and cinnamon, and milk. It usually contains between 40-60mg of caffeine per 120ml (4.5oz) cup.
- Decaffeinated Chai Latte – This variation uses decaffeinated tea in place of the traditional black tea for a lower caffeine content. You can expect about 10-20mg of caffeine per serve.
- Green Chai Latte – This modern twist on the chai latte uses green tea in place of black tea and contains about 30-45mg of caffeine per 120ml (4.5oz) cup.
What’s the best way to make a chai latte?
Most chai drinkers will agree that the best way to make a chai latte is the traditional way, much like they have for centuries in India. That means whole, fresh spices, loose-leaf black tea, steamed (or boiled) milk, and sugar to taste.
Why is this the best way? Two reasons: flavor and health benefits. Fresh, whole spices (not dry or powdered!) produce the most decadent flavor and aroma. They also deliver health-boosting nutrients and antioxidants that dry spices and artificial flavorings do not!
The effects of caffeine on the body
We all know someone who feels like they can’t get through a single day without several cups of coffee. Caffeine energises us, acting as a nervous system stimulant that makes us more alert to everything going on around us.
In big doses, though, it can increase our heart rate and cause heightened anxiety which is something to be conscious of.
THE INGREDIENTS OF CHAI LATTE POWDER
The caffeine in chai latte powder comes from the traditional black tea leaves. These are blended with spices like:
- Cinnamon
- Cardamom
- Ginger
- Cloves
- Nutmeg
- Pepper
- Coriander
- Star Anise
Other recipes might also contain additional flavours and sweeteners – so be sure to check the label of the product you buy.
Balancing caffeine in chai latte
Ultimately, you can reduce (or increase) your caffeine intake simply by shopping around. Look for the percentage of tea leaves used in each recipe, as this will give you a good estimate of the lingering effects it will have.
Also consider your:
- Brewing Time: Steep the chai latte powder for 2-3 minutes for a strong drink or just 1 minute for a weaker one.
- Serving Size: Use a smaller or larger scoop than the recommended serving size, depending on the desired effect.
- Milk Levels: Some chai lovers out there fill half their cup with milk. This dilutes the amount of caffeine per sip
Is there caffeine in a chai latte?
Yes there is caffeine in chai latte. The caffeine content comes from the black tea leaves in the ingredients. The amount varies based on the style of chai latte you are using – either from fresh tea leaves and spices like in a sticky chai or a powdered chai beverage where the caffeine content changes with the ratio of brewed tea to milk.
Will a chai latte keep me awake?
Chai lattes do not usually keep you awake as the caffeine content is quite low compared to coffee, coca cola or energy drinks. The caffeine levels in chai are not enough to disturb your sleep (unless you’re highly sensitive to caffeine). Chai also contains tannin, which reduces the rate at which caffeine is absorbed into your system.
Conclusion
So how much caffeine is in a chai latte? An average chai latte has 70.5 milligrams of caffeine. If you prefer dirty chai lattes (which contain espresso), you can expect at least 135 milligrams. Per ounce, chai has less caffeine than either coffee or espresso — but per serving, there’s more caffeine in chai than espresso! Now that you have the numbers, you can make healthy caffeine decisions. Even better, you can enjoy a creamy chai latte (or three)!