Thick, creamy vanilla chai breakfast shakes…
Have you ever tried chai tea?
My college roommate got me hooked on chai sophomore year, and the spicy beverage helped me through many a winter’s bike ride to class. I invested in a stainless-steel travel mug, which I’d fill with hot tea and stuff into the side pocket of my backpack. Today’s recipe is a milkshake version of that comforting chai.
(P.S. To anyone who currently attends SMU: buy a cheap bike. In the years I was there, two of my bicycles were stolen—locks and all!)
A thick, creamy, and secretly healthy milkshake with sweet chai spices.
Perfect for a post-workout drink or a late-night snack…
Or even for breakfast!
Vanilla Chai Breakfast Shakes
Vanilla Chai Breakfast Shakes
Print This Recipe
[mrp_rating_result show_count="false" show_rich_snippets="false"]
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk of choice, or less for a thicker shake
- 1 very ripe frozen banana (Banana-Free Version Here)
- 1/2 tsp each cinnamon and powdered ginger
- Tiny dash each: pepper, cardamom, ground cloves, and nutmeg (You can omit any or all if desired. Or omit all the spices and simply brew your milk with a chai tea bag, then chill before blending)
- 1/4 tsp pure vanilla extract
- optional sweetener if desired
Instructions
Crazy-simple directions: Combine all ingredients and blend until smooth. Serve cold, or gently heat if a hot drink is desired instead. (Side note: I bet if you make a bigger serving and tweak the recipe a bit, it could make a good ice cream. I might have to work on that!)
Link Of The Day:
Julie H. of Spinach and Sprinkles says
Warm chai tea helps me make it though the winter too! This sounds like a perfect summer mix up! Good one, Katie!
Claire @ Live and Love to Eat says
Chia shake!? Yes, please.
Claire @ Live and Love to Eat says
Woops, chai! 🙂 Chia couldn’t hurt either.
Teresa says
Yum, this looks delicious. Never thought of adding chai spices to my shakes; what a wonderful idea.
As for the bake sale, I like buying things that are easy to eat out-of-hand and don’t crumble too much. So, brownies, cookies, or bars of some sort. My personal favorites are brownies or spice cookies since I’m always looking for new and interesting variations on both of those. I’m sure whatever you decide to bring will be awesome. 🙂
Colleen says
I’m pretty sure YOU can’t go wrong — anything you bring will be sold in a flash!!! Brownies, chocolate chip cookies, those go first I think, or cupcakes with cool decorations 🙂
This shake looks super-yummy! Can’t wait to try!!!
Thanks so much!!
Yellow Haired Girl says
Oh wow! Katie, this looks soooo good!
My fave bake sale options include chocolate. But I figure we’re on the same wavelength there, so I probably wasn’t much help 😉
Bjorg @asolosingerinamerica says
Mm chai is my face, I used to get “Dirty chai latte” all the time [chai latte with espresso]
What about cookies? Maybe peanut butter?
Christy S. Lube says
At our local coffee shop, they call that (the chai latte w/ espresso) a “Wookiee”… LOL.
(My daughters told me if I drank a Wookiee, they were pretty sure Chewbacca would come after me…)
Kaleigh says
Haha I work at a coffee & ice cream shop in my hometown and we call it a Dirty Hippie. We also can put espresso in our Mexican hot chocolate (aka a Dirty Sanchez). No idea who came up with these.
Lauren says
In Fort Collins, CO they call it a Red Eye Cat but I think it’d make sense because the cafe that named it is called the Alley Cat.
It is soooo yummy!
Tayler says
Heya! Im in Fort Collins too! You should try Tasty Harmony in Old Town, and Native Foods in Boulder! Email me at kissthevegan@gmail.com for instructions!
Kristen @ notsodomesticated says
I love chai! I just found some instant oatmeal from Whole Foods that has chai spices in it, and it’s SO yummy! 🙂
Amanda says
I did this recently at home with rolled oats! As I boiled the water for my oatmeal I left a chai tea bag in there. then I cooked the oatmeal as normal with some raisins and nuts and a little milk or creamer it was great. And I got my caffeine kick right along with my breakfast 🙂 I’m trying to think of what other tea flavos might be god like this…
Katie @wishandwhimsy says
I’m craving this right now and I haven’t even tried it. I LOVE Chai.
Jennifer @ Peanut Butter and Pepper says
Holy yum! This looks fantastic! I want one of these right now. Great recipe Katie!!!
katie @KatieDid says
something not too messy and easy to individually package… no frosting probably. Cookies or fudge babies would be great!
Samantha says
Have fun cooking for your bake sale!
I know that when I go to them I tend to avoid things that seem too messy (or heavily man-handled by the maker :))
I love to try something slightly different than I would normally make for myself to see if I like it. Usually that is a good experience, this last weekend – sort of a weird one. 🙂
I agree that I need to be able to see the item and a clear ingredient list. Have fun! Anyone is going to be lucky to get what you make!
So which cause does your bake sale benefit?
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
United Farm Workers of America.
But also, it highlights the yumminess of vegan treats and shows we eat more than just rabbit food ;).
Samantha says
Wow. That would be a GREAT organization.
I laughed about the rabbit food comment…boy do I ever eat more than that! LOL
Breenah says
Chai is my absolute most favorite drink EVER.
Dakota says
Bake Sale?
Cookies or cupcakes! People also get really excited over “mini” things, because they can buy something without feeling like they are eating a ton. If you can support a good cause, eat something delicious, but not feel like you just ate something big (or have to eat something if you’re already full)… it’s a win-win-win.
Melissa @ squatsandsquash says
Oh my goodness I’m so excited anout this recipe!! I love chai lattes and now I have a way to drink them in the hot Texas summers!! Thanks Katie!!
Jamie @ Don't Forget the Cinnamon says
I made a batch of granola and portioned it into single-serving packages for a bake sale once and it went off well! People appreciated that they could support the cause but purchase something healthy that they could enjoy then or for breakfast the next day if they weren’t hungry right that second.
Madison @ Peanut Butter Lover says
I know that when I go to bake sales I normally look for two things: Something that I’ve never tried before BUT looks delicious! OR… Something that I love and haven’t had in a while. For me, these things would be fudge, snickerdoodles, cupcakes, sugar cookies or sweet breads (with chocolate chips of course!). Question
Renata says
Yum! Looks incredible, this will definitely go on my ‘to make’ list. Those straws are soooo cute! Where did you find those?
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
I actually got them online somewhere… I forget the site, but it was back in September, and I decided it’d be a good birthday present to myself. (I hardly ever order things online, because of shipping costs.)
Sarah says
I love love LOVE your Flourless Chocolate Chip cookies! I always have a batch in my freezer to snick snack on. I even posted about them on my blog. I think you should make those. I always leave out the white sugar because I don’t like sweet cookies either and I use super dark chocolate chips but those with sugar would be awesome for people with “normal” tastebuds.
Samantha says
Those are one of my favorites too and I agree on the sugar part! I do peanut butter in place of the margarine/oil.
Sarah says
Yes! I do too! I use Earth Balance and it works pretty well. Maybe I will try them with Better ‘n’ Peanut Butter next time!
Samantha says
Peanut butter works great for me. I just smash the cookie down a bit because it makes them a bit more dense but SO good.
Alex@Spoonful of Sugar Free says
LoVE. Used to love chai 😀 and I love that straw! Where did you get it? It is adorable!
For the bake sale…hmm, make something easy to wrap, doesn’t have to be refrigerated, and sticks together easily. I used to always buy fudgy brownies at bakesales (they are the best). Plus, brownies are pretty easy to bake and store. I bet a “cake batter” brownie/bar thing with sprinkles would be a hit, too. Do you have a recipe like that? I can’t remember…
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
I actually got them online somewhere… I forget the site, but it was back in September, and I decided it’d be a good birthday present to myself. (I hardly ever order things online, because of shipping costs.)
I’ve been meaning to make copycat Little Debbies… thanks for the reminder, Alex! 🙂
Suzie says
Yum! This is perfect, I just bought 2 boxes of chai tea as it was on sale– I will definitely be making this, especially as the HOT days are approaching… Thanks for the great recipe!
Angela says
Skinny Snickerdoodles or any variety of chocolate chip cookies
Mary says
The best thing I got at a “bake sale” was called a Power Ball in Vermont. Basically a peanut butter ball w/ raisins and peanuts and rolled in sesame seeds. I think w/ your spin on things you could update that . It was not sticky – It was easy to throw in my purse and eat when I felt low – It didn’t crumble and make a mess.
A.F. says
This looks delicious and I can’t wait to try it! As for the nutritional facts, though, one medium banana alone is around 110 calories… How can the total for the entire recipe be only 115?
Lisa says
Coming from an obsessive calorie counter:
1 normal sized banana (90 grams without the skin) is only 75 calories.
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
I use Spark Recipe Calculator, since I’m not a calorie counter. So I don’t inherently know the values of a lot of items. I just plug in the ingredients…
Jen says
lol mine came out to 100c total even with the milk. I guess I must be doing something wrong!
A.F. says
I, too, am somewhat of an obsessive calorie counter. I’m not saying this to perseverate on the topic, but I have checked and cross-checked this value many a time, as I eat bananas frequently. Even Dole’s website lists a medium banana at 110 calories, and a search for “medium banana” on Spark Recipes will yield the following: Banana, Fresh (Medium, 7″ – 7 7/8″ long) : 108 calories. The same goes for a search on My Fitness Pal.
Katie, I made the shake tonight and it is truly delicious, regardless of the amount of calories. And it’s infinitely healthier than a similar dairy-cholesterol-sugar laden concoction! I really didn’t mean to start a fuss here, I just wanted to help out a fellow cal counter.
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
No worries. Sorry, I am NOT a calorie counter… I have to trust what the recipe site gives me, but if you ever think my info is inaccurate, please let me know what should be correct and I can fix my post!
Lisa says
No, you did it correct, Katie! If we’re getting nit picky, those sites list “1 medium banana” but you have to remember that the peel adds grams and calories. But no one eats the peel! At least I hope they don’t! 😉
So doing it in grams is much more accurate. And I like how you changed the nutritional info link. I think you handled it perfectly! Don’t worry, we calorie counters have your back!
Mandie says
I’ve never tried a chai tea before – but this sounds so good! I’ll try it!
(I have tried chai power balls and they were good!)
A suggestion – you could make your Hot Chocolate Cookies or Funfetti Cookie Dough Balls! 🙂
Weird question: Do you actually read all the comments posted on your blog?
Just wondering, because I know you are busy, and you get TONS of comments 😉
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
Yup, I definitely do!
I have hundreds to answer each day, so it might take awhile if you’ve asked a specific question… but I DO try and answer as many as I can 🙂
Mandie says
I want to thank you for doing that!
It’s nice to know that you do read them all, since not all bloggers do that 🙂
Indeed, hundreds of comments to answer takes quite a while!
Mandie says
And I don’t mind waiting awhile to get a question answered! 😉
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
Oh, to answer your questions: yes I’d recommend my camera, and as for the hosting thing… I guess it depends on the goal of your blog. If you’re blogging for a hobby, I definitely would recommend taking advantage of the free service from wordpress.com as opposed to having to pay extra for hosting :).
Mandie says
Thank you for your help, Katie!
One last question for you – Which Canon Rebel do you have? (As in the Xsi, Xs, T1i, T2i, T3i, T3, etc)
By the way, I tried the Vanilla Chai Breakfast Shake and it was really good!
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
t2i
Mandie says
Oh, thank you SO much, Katie!
Katie @ Peace Love & Oats says
I love Chai! so good! And I’d just be sure not to have icing involved, that can get messy in transportation. I’d recommend some of the bars since those are more unique!
casey says
I have made something similar. I boiled (or close to boil) a small amount of water 1/4- 1/3 cup ish? Then steeped the chai tea bag. Remove the bag. Allow the remaining tea to cool (stick in the fridge or freezer to hurry it along! Then add that to blender with other ingredients. I use frozen banana slices to keep it cold and help it thicken. I use either almond or coconut milk. And because i’m not vegan I like to add some plain yogurt (1/2 cup ish?) Occationally I will add a touch of maple syrup or honey for sweetener. Oh and real vanilla.
Green Tea Bliss says
Love Chai!
As for the bake sale I always take in a few pies as people don’t make them anymore and they love to leave with a whole, homemade pie…PLUS they bring in the big $$$. I also love GF macaroons! Have fun baking for a cause 😉
Cheri @ The Watering Mouth says
These look perfect Katie – except when I make them, I’m gonna omit the banana, cinnamon and all the spices and I will add chocolate syrup. Oh wait, that’s just a chocolate milkshake. Well, so be it!
Love the concept of this twist – though, I’ll stick with my old faithful. Heehee. 😀
Jill Paxson says
Brilliant! Love chai, love cold shakes, perfect combo. Hallelujah girl! 🙂
Alice says
You should bring your chocolate cupcakes and/or your chocolate chip cookies! 😉
Lisa says
Yes, anything chocolate! 🙂
Aja says
WANT.
Charisma Moran says
I love chai tea and this sounds delicious! The directions actually seem pretty easy so I think I will try it this weekend. Thanks!! =)
Jenny D says
This might even be great with some oatmeal added to it to make it a little more hearty!
Also for your bake sale if no one has mentioned it, I suggest small loafs of your banana bread, definitely the peanut butter bread and coconut cake. Maybe even your homemade energy bars or babies.
Every one does cookies. Yours are amazing though so I guess it would all depend on how much time you have…..maybe even some of your graham crackers thrown in a small baggies with your chocolate bars/bunnies and marshmallows. Maybe even some coconut melties! Definitely advertise your blog because everyone will be hooked!
You have so many recipes that I would have to skim through them again but those are all the ones off the top of my head.
Lindsey says
Thank you for always including so many variations on your recipes. Nobody would complain if you didn’t, so the extra hat tip to those of us who don’t eat bananas is appreciated!
Jen says
+1
So many other bloggers don’t, and I know it’s extra work but I really appreciate it!
Ann says
Katie
I’ve been to plenty of school bake sales where most of the items are store bought (the sad truth of mothers these days is too often that they don’t know how to make anything without a mix or not in a plastic pack!). The treats never look very interesting, five kinds of bland chocolate chip cookies and an endless supply of those doughy overly sweetened white cookies with too much seasonally colored frosting. Unfortunately kids always want those gross things (I think mine love them so much because I won’t buy them). So my suggestion for a treat to take is something that looks like that–your “funfetti” recipes would be a big draw. And maybe people would be pleasantly surprised that they are not only delish, but vegan without chemicals to boot!
Otherwise, kids love anything that’s colorful and frosted (another observation is that no matter how yummy a slice of sweet bread or bar is, if it’s brown it won’t sell so well).
I only wish I could patronize a sale full of your cooking…
Ann
Jenny D says
Unfortunately around here anyway many of the schools only allow store-bought items due to so many different allergies. The ingredient list has to be printed on the package. I am really into home made everything so although I understand, it really irritates me at the same time.
Shelly Moe says
My favorite bake sale item…brownies, brownies, brownies. Oh! And ‘Special K” bars…you know…the rice krispy looking bar with a layer of chocolate on top. Katie, you should totally do a re-make of “Special K” bars!!
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
I never got to try those before going vegan… I’ll have to google and see if I can make a recipe from the ingredient list, because I know a ton of people like them!
Rune says
Sounds good 😀 For the bake sale, perhaps you should avoid nuts? Lots of people have allergies x
Jen says
Or gluten. I personally like gluten, but it’s the new thing to avoid it.
Katrina @ Warm Vanilla Sugar says
This sounds absolutely fabulous! I loooove chai tea!
Colleen says
PS- so no tea in your recipe? interesting! …I saw it’s an option instead of spices, but I’m surprised no black tea in the original…anyway, it still looks and sounds delicious! And without the tea, you could have it just before bed!! You’re the best!!
Chelsea @ Chelsea Eats Treats says
Looks delicious! I’ve never tried chai but it’s about time for me to try it out! Thanks for posting this!
Janice says
I love milkshakes! I havent had one in a looong time because a lot of times, a milkshake recipe requires a certain amount of sugary ice cream and such… eeuw. I do like ice cream but only in spoonfuls on special occasions. They’re way too sweet for my liking. This is a great idea 🙂
Melissa (Better Fit) says
I’d love to go to any bake sale that you have a stall at! I’d buy it all 😉
In terms of your request for advice:
– Have something that people can see (rather than wrapping everything and covering up the tempting deliciousness… even if it’s a sample to show what they’ll get inside)
– Offer easy takeaway options (packaging or something that isn’t too messy to carry if you don’t have packaging)
-Market the trademark that you’re so incredibly good at: gloriously delicious treats that taste amazing, but are also pretty healthy.
Roni Yager says
I think the things that people want the most at bake sales are either simple like a great soft cookie or something that looks magnificent like an elaborately decorated cupcake…at least those are the things that I like! Or rice crispy treats 🙂
Mariel says
I absolutely love drinks like this! have fun at that bake sale 🙂
Jen says
Just made this! I took the advice of someone on your facebook page to add a little spinach, and I can easily see this being my new favorite shake :). Thanks for another winning recipe, Katie!
Jen says
Oh, I did NOT mean to channel Charlie Sheen :-?.
Emily @ Glitz Glam Granola says
Ohh I LOVE chai!! In college I was hooked on chai lattes- but only from the coffee cart- the coffee shop on campus made them differently and they were never as good! Now I start my work days with chai tea with a stevia and it’s the perfect start to my day! Can’t wait to try this!!
Casey says
What form of stevia do you use? I LOVE chai tea, but struggle with finding a good sweetener. I stopped using plain white sugar a while ago. I used splenda for a long time (because I was clueless and thought it was better for me!) I have since tried Truvia and just don’t care for it. I need to add like 6 packets to 1 normal size 8oz mug! I’ve considered trying stevia in liquid form or another brand. Any suggestions would be helpful!
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
Jumping in to recommend NuNaturals 🙂
Les says
Katie,
I’ve been making the chocolate chip milkshake (with or without mint) every day for several days now! I use frozen banana, coconut milk, and add chia seed. It is so rich and thick! I’m addicted.
Still lovin’ your blog after several years of following!
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
That really (really!) means a lot to me… especially since I know how confusing my blog used to be, with giant white spaces, lots of bold sentences, and links going everywhere even to get to just one recipe. (Hopefully it’s much better about that now; I’ve really tried to make it easier to read!)
krystal@coffeecardiogoddess says
I have had a chai drink before and thought it was pretty yummy! I will definately give this a go. Where do you get frozen bananas? Do you just freezeva regular banana?
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
Peel bananas when they turn brown, then freeze :).
Jen says
Katie – I’d suggest making the chocolate rice krispy treat bars. I made them for a party a couple months ago, and I’m still hearing about them! (They’re great as cereal too- just break them up and add some dairy-free milk on top. Mmm!)
krystal@coffeecardiogoddess says
As far as what to bring to bake sale, any of your cookies or the deep dish cookie cake would be a hit!
Megan says
This looks delicious! Now that the weather’s getting warmer, I don’t drink too much tea, but I’m excited to try this! As for the bake sale, whenever I go to a bake sale, I always buy based on presentation (which doesn’t seem to be a problem with you! Your macaroon Easter chicks were absolutely adorable). Also, I always lean towards something unique; something that I can’t find anywhere else. Your Chocolate Pumpkin Cookies and your Better n Reeses Chocolate Cups look delicious!!! The Funfetti Cookie Dough Balls might be fun too, just because they’re colorful. I’m sure your desserts will be a big hit at the bake sale!
Megan E. says
Looks good! I love Chai so might try that some night…
For the bake sale, I’d recommend nothing that will melt, especially as it gets warmer (so anything chocolate covered is out). I like cookies, since you usually can package 2-3 together instead of just 1 item. Brownies tend to get sticky so I’m not as much a fan of them, unless they have a cookie crust or something. I also liked the idea of a pie from above – but maybe make mini ones that you can give away the wrapping too?
Oliveretro says
Lemon bars or Krispy Treats!
Leslie @ healthybybalance says
Katie! It’s like you always know exactly what I need! I’m making this right now…it looks delicious! And I have a serious Chai addiction!
As for the bake sale, I agree with marketing your unique brand…everyone is looking for a healthy dessert. I would also focus on the senses…I’m a sucker for pretty food and obviously yummy, sweet smells. So make something that maybe has a stronger aroma that will get people’s attention.
Kit-Kat says
Not much of a chai fan…. would it work with a regular herbal tea, do you think?
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
Sorry, I have only tried it with chai so I can’t vouch for the taste. But edible experiments are the best kinds!
Liz @ iheartvegetables says
MY college roommate is the one that introduced me to Chai too!!! I still enjoy it 🙂
Caela says
I went to SMU, too. My bike was stolen (lock and all) within 3 days of moving in.
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
Ugh seriously, what is up with that? 🙁
My sister was mad… the second bike was actually hers!
Misty says
I just made one of these. Yum!
Moni Meals says
ohhhh. Now that is clever, A Chai Shake! Yum. I am a shake queen. 🙂
Emily says
This looks sooo good. Have you ever considered making Chai spiced cookies? Or maybe Chai muffins? I am so obsessed with chai spices and I was so happy to come across this recipe!!
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
I really need to do more chai-spiced things. When I was writing this post, I was amazed to see that I hadn’t done ANY other chai recipes. Maybe chai cream chocolate cupcakes need to be made…
Katie says
Im going too! My brother and I are bringing pumpkin bars and cinnamon rolls. I would suggest the chocolate chip cookies with frosting between two of them and the snickerdoodles!
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
I think I got one of your cinnamon rolls!!
Caralyn says
I.HAVE.GOT.TO.TRY.THIS. Chai is my favorite tea, gonna make this right away.
I think you should bring one of your blondies, either snickerdoodle or pb&j.
Lisa @Bitesforbabies says
I love soy chai tea (from Starbucks!) I surprised they don’t have a “cold” version on their menu. Looks like you beat them to it!! I’ll try YOUR version 😉
Jordan says
You are my HERO!! Just so you know!
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
LOL!
Can I have a chocolate cape??? 🙂
Alanna says
I have a new favorite shake! Well, maybe not… The choc PB one is pretty amazing. 😉 But this is delicious, and the spices were just right! I love me some chai. The only thing I left out was cardamom (didn’t have any) and sweetener (didn’t need it). My shake was really thick since I only had a little over 1/2 cup almond milk left, but it was awesome. If I had any milk left I would totally try your ice cream suggestion!
For the bake sale, I was going to say cookies (secret PB are insanely good, but that’ll get expensive to make a big batch) since they’re so portable. But I really like someone else’s suggestion to do one of your breads in mini-loaf size, or fudge babies (maybe a few to a baggie?). Whatever you make will be delicious!
susielol says
thanks for this recipe. I love it!
Jeanna says
Can’t wait to make this!! Might be my pre run breaky tomorrow!! You should do the pumpkin cream cheese bars—every person I’ve made these for raves about them and won’t believe me when I say they are healthy and vegan!!! It’s always hard for “regular” eaters to believe that vegan deserts can be delicious. I love to surprise people and your recipes help me out!! Thanks!
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
I was *so* going to make them… until I saw another commenter was actually planning to bring pumpkin cream cheese bars to the same bake sale lol!
Katie @ Nutrition in a Peanut Shell says
I first got turned on to Chai tea when I was in gymnastics camp! Except they were lattes and full of sugar. Delicious 😉
Casey says
I asked this question further up as a direct question to another reader, so please excuse me if you are reading this again as you scroll down, but hoping for advice from other readers. I LOVE chai tea, but I have yet to find a good sweetener. I used to use plain old white sugar because this is how I was shown to make authentic chai tea from an Indian friend of mine (no tea bags and i would crush the cardamom pod myself!) but then I needed to find a way to make chai portable, so resorted to tea bags. I like celestian seasonings. Here’s the delema, I used splenda for a long time trying to avoid calories, but clueless about the potential negative effects of splenda. So, what do I use? What do you all use? I tried Truvia, but had to use about 6 packets in 1 normal size 8oz mug to get it sweet enough and still didn’t care for the flavor. Perhaps a liquid stevia? Or another brand. Anyone successful using honey or agave? PLEASE HELP!!! Oh, I always use a splash of milk in my tea too (regular cow’s milk or almond or coconut milk) Any advice appreciated! I want to be able to enjoy my favorite hot drink again!
Vita @ Juicer Depot says
I love to use Agave as a sweetener. I buy mine at Costco. I have tried Splenda and Stevia but do not like it especially the after taste. I avoid sugar as much as I can. Agave is a low glycemic sweetener and I think the taste is perfect.
Sarah the official CCK drooler says
I would caution against a liquid stevia ( i hate the aftertaste!) But I’ve only tried the NOW brand of stevia. Agave is a good choice but there are also some downsides to it. Personally, I used agave a lot until I read some of the downsides. If using honey, I would use a raw one, like Really Raw Honey. It tastes really good! But its harder to put into tea and other beverages (unless blended) And I’m Indian so I can tell you that you won’t compromise the flavor too much! Have you looked into xylitol?
Here is a brand of liquid stevia that a lot of people I know like and my grandmother in India uses in her chai!
http://www.amazon.com/Sweetleaf-Flavored-Sweetener-Vanilla-Bottles/dp/B000FBL8NM
It comes in other flavors as well- Hope this helps! And remember, most thing are fine in moderation so don’t worry about downsided TOO much as long as its not regularly consumed 🙂
meg says
Sugar cookies in the colours of the charity!
Katie says
Ok, I tried this and it was totally like the best shake ever!!!!
Shannon Taggart says
OH MY GOODNESS….. this is the most delicious thing in the entire world. I am heading to the fruit market to buy a million bananas to make sure I always have one in the freezer. Holy moly this is delicious.
Sapphire says
Chai is absolutely delicious! I’m so glad one of my college girlfriends introduced me to the tasty tasty TASTY drink 🙂
As for the question: I’m a sucker for fudge and brownies from bake sales. I think I’ll make some Good Girl Vegan Fudge for tomorrow! 🙂
Felicia says
I ALWAYS go for the brownies at bake sales! As long as they’re nut free, I know they will be delicious and worth every penny. If there are chocolate chip cookies, I check those out too… but I’m a cookie snob. I need my CCCs thick, chewy, and cake-y, with a high chocolate-to-cookie ratio. (: Haha but you can’t go wrong with brownies!
Shannon says
Yes! I’m going to my kitchen right now to put a banana in the freezer so I can try this tonight. As for the bake sale, I LOVED the pb and j bars 🙂
Stephanie says
WOW! I made this for breakfast this morning and it was fantastic 🙂
I am on a higher fat diet (Paleo actually… maybe you’ve heard of it?). So, I used your suggestion to substitute coconut milk for the banana and I also subbed heavy cream for the milk. Talk about luxurious, delicious, wonderful, there just aren’t enough adjectives to describe it. Thanks a bunch for the recipe. It was an amazing start to my Saturday 🙂
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
I have heard of it… I’ve never actually googled to see what exactly the diet is. I really should do that. As in, right now ;).
Annie @ Naturally Sweet Recipes says
I want this shake now! It looks amazing!
I would suggest something chocolate but with a bit of color added as well- sprinkles or colored frosting. It seems the bright colored items catch people’s eyes and everyone loves chocolate!! 🙂 good luck! I would love to buy one, or a few of your treats!
Sydney says
This was fantastic! I had after a run and it was perfectly refreshing/comforting. I was out of bananas so i substituted greek yogurt and some ice cubes. Also added about a tbs of cashew butter, just to hold it all together. It was heaven! Great job Katie!
Sarah the official CCK drooler says
YUM!!! Being Indian (in heritage) you bet chai is a staple for me. So naturally I have everything on hand! I put the naners in the freezer earlier and am going to make it now. Stand by… 🙂
And, like duh, bring your deep dish cookie pie. You could make mini ones in little tartlet pans! How cute? It’ll sell faster than anything, ESPECIALLY when you say its healthy and made with chickpeas… after they buy it of course 🙂
Sarah the official CCK drooler says
aaaaaand, YUMTOWN!!! We have cousins coming over from India in a few weeks and my mom is going to make these for them. I’ll give you their feedback 🙂
im off to slurp the rest….
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
Thanks! I definitely want to hear :).
Lauren says
Where did you get that cute straw???
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
Online about a year ago… I forget the website, but it was a birthday present to myself since I don’t usually let myself buy things online because of shipping costs!
Hungry Heather says
I just made a variant of your shake here and it is AMAZING! Being on a protein shake diet can get dull fast – I so appreciate your creativity with the adding of chai spices. I never would have thought about doing that! Thank you Katie, as usual, for making healthy eating decadent.
Michelle says
Katie –
Does the banana have to be frozen? I’ve always wondered if there is a difference in smoothie/shake if you use a fresh banana vs. frozen. Thanks!
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
I like my smoothies cold, but if you dont care that it’s not super-cold it doesn’t have to be frozen!
Rachel says
Just made your shake after my long run. Amazing!!!!
Amy says
OMG! just made this shake, it was sooo good! I’m not a big fan of chai tea plain but I love the combo of spices in general, like chai lattes with espresso <3
I would recommend taking some of your gluten-free chocolate cookies since gluten-free is such a big thing right now, but anything would be good!
I also just discovered that you live in Dallas… I live in Dallas! So random lol
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
Awesome! And I definitely listened to your gf suggestion :).
I hope you got a chance to hit up the bake sale… it was so much fun! (That probably goes without saying, though. When is anything involving chocolate NOT fun? ;))
Eleanor@Eatinglikeahorse says
Take the secret peanut butter cookies; I’m still addicted to them, especially with White Chocolate Wonderful or cashew butter 🙂
Evelyne says
This looks SO GOOD. (drool)
This isn’t really related to this post, but I have two questions. Kinda random. But anyway.
1. What kind of cocoa powder do you use in your chocolate recipes? I know it probably doesn’t matter, but I was wondering if there’s a specific kind.
2. Did you have pets as a kid, or just later in life?
Thanksss 🙂
Evelyne says
Oh and by the way, for the bake sale, I’d say go with raw cookie dough balls or fudge babies… nom nom nom haha 🙂
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
I used to use Hershey’s, because it was cheapest… But recently I’ve been learning more and more about slave labor and the fact that Hershey’s isn’t a fair-trade company. So I’ve been trying to use Dagoba all the time now… It’s much more expensive, but I rationalize that Hershey’s can be cheaper because it’s using slave labor. I’d rather pay the extra cost and not be a part of that :(.
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
Oh, and I’ve always had pets :).
When I lived in Japan, my dog stayed at my grandma’s house in the US… but we still had fish. They were evil, and mine ate my sister’s!
Kathleen @ KatsHealthCorner says
This looks AMAZING! I love anything with chia and banana, so I know I’ll love this! <3
Jennifer says
I made this for breakfast this morning and threw in some raw oatmeal as I was eating it. It was delicious! Thanks for another great and easy recipe!
Kit-Kat says
You should make something with sprinkles. Everyone loves fun-looking baked goods! 🙂
Cindy says
For the bake sale – anything that easily stays together between two fingers and can be eaten in just a few bites – sans napkin, sans gooey get-fingers-dirty factor. You have lots to choose from!
Cindy S says
Just made this and holy yum! My son and I devoured it.
Sabrina @ Nutritiously Sweet says
Mmm, the shake sounds delish! And lol it’s true! Whatever you make will be a great hit. If I was there I would love some sugar cookies!
Amber with Slim Pickin's Kitchen says
Yum! This sounds awesome! Also, right after I read this post my brother randomly posted this on FitFluential Food’s FB wall:
“Anyone have a lead on a low or no calorie Chai powder that I can add to a protein shake? If there isn’t one out there I will make my own. Thoughts?”
How crazy is that?!? Clearly, I lead him straight here 😉
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
LOL too weird!
Red-headed Veg says
Yum! I just tried this but added some spirulina-based vanilla smoothie mix to give it a protein boost–fantastic!
@Amber with Slim Pickin’s Kitchen: You can find sugar-free Chai syrup online–sold with other coffee flavoring syrups. Don’t know what the ingredients are though–you’d want to check them. Not a powder, and not as good as this recipe, but very easy to add to your shakes.
Another thought would be to brew up some really strong, milky chai tea and freeze it in ice cube trays, then add a few of cubes to your shakes when you blend them.
roxy says
I have a distinct feeling these are about to become my salvation for the rest of exams — especially since I’ve got a big bunch of ripe bananas just waiting to be frozen sitting on my counter. Watch out, Bankruptcy Code… I have CHAI MILKSHAKES!
Cindy says
Have you ever added protein powder to these for added nutrition? Just wondered if it would make it too thick and icky. Sounds so yummy for breakfast but love high protein.
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
Answered on pinterest 😉
Anna says
I made this today with some almond milk (with a touch of coconut creamer) brewed with Koni Masala Chai. It was absolutely divine!
When you mentioned bake sale I couldn’t help but picture Mini Deep Dish Cookie Pies…. *drool*
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
Darn it, I wish I’d read your comment before the bake sale! Those would’ve been adorable!
Lindsay says
I just made this shake for breakfast and it was delish! I love chai but don’t like the caffeine so this let’s me have the tasty chai caffeine free. What a great idea, thank you!!
katherine says
how do you brew milk with chai tea bag?
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
Just do it the same way as you would if it were water :).
Katie says
I just made this and it made my heart sing. sooooooooooooooooooo good!!
kimberly says
Just tried this, subbing 1 cup lite coconut milk for dairy. And, wow!!! Amazing!!
Thanks!
evelyn says
soo…i usually don’t like bananas in my shakes. BUT THIS WAS THE BEST SHAKE I’VE EVER HAD! No joke. seriously, everyone needs to try this. it was beyond delicious!
Jenevieve Johnson says
Where’s the tea in this recipe?
Chelan says
Awww, thanks for having a banana-free version! That’s been the biggest hurdle for me going Vegan: so many banana recipes, and they give me migraines!
Thankyouthankyouthankyouthankyouthankyou!
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
Haha no worries! I usually have banana-free versions of all my recipes with bananas, because a lot of people seem to not like bananas!
Anonymous says
Just made this and subbed 1/2 can coconut milk for the almond milk. SO THICK AND CREAMY!!!!! Tasted just like how I remember milkshakes tasting, only better because it’s super healthy!! YUMMO!
Allie says
Katie,
I absolutely love your blog!! About a month ago, after eating soy regularly for all of my 19 years, I obtained a severe soy allergy out of the blue. Living soy-free is harder than I could have ever imagined, especially since up until last week I had to learn while relying solely on dorm food, and one of the things that I have missed the most is desserts. This blog has really helped me find some foods that I can eat, and it means so much to me. I love all of the recipes in the soy-free list, keep them coming!!!! You’ve added a bit of hope this situation I’ve been thrown into, and I love what you’re doing. Thank you!
Laura S. says
Oh my goodness – amazing! I added a dash of sugar because I like everything sweet. Fantastic recipe, tastes just like any chai drink 🙂
Amanda says
How do you make the “whipped cream” all pretty and professional looking like that?
katherine says
this is the best thing ever!! i have it at least three times a week for breakfast-so quick and easy and delicious! thank you!
Emily says
If you freeze a banana and a mug of chai tea and then blend it togetger in a food processor, it makes a huge serving of chai-nana soft serve! :3 it’s especially yummy if you make the tea extra strong and add some extra cinnamon.
robinw13 says
Pies. People LOVE pies and they sell like…um….hotcakes. Especially if you can make a really good and flaky piecrust…
Basil says
I made this for dessert last night…. it was super yumyum! Great combo of flavours. I’ll have to try actual chai tea one of these days…
Sara says
This…was…OUT OF THIS WORLD. Better than any frozen chai from any coffee shop. Creamy, sweet, and incredible with the perfect blend of spice. UHMAZING. I used the cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
LessSugarNaturally says
Pure Genius. Just made it! I’m so mad at myself for drinking it in 30 seconds! Why???????
Elizabeth says
I am not a huge fan of chai, so last night I made only half the recipe to try it. Well, today I made the full recipe…. :)P
Jess says
I always make coconut macaroons for bake sales! One of the main reasons is they are always a hit and there are never any other macaroons made by anyone else at any sale I’ve been to! They easily wrap two or three in one little package and you can tie them up with cling wrap and a ribbon 🙂 I started using a delicious recipe for raspberry coconut macaroons that I found here: http://smittenkitchen.com/2012/03/raspberry-coconut-macaroons/
that chai milkshake looks delicious! I simply love chai tea, it’s always reminded me of a warm cinnamon bun in a cup!
maia says
i just made this and it was literally the best thing i ever drank in my life. i stood in my kitchen licking my glass much longer than i should have.
Mandy Cheshire says
YUM! I was a little skeptical at first, even though I love drinking chai. But this is really yum, even without the tea! This has the warmth of drinking chai (ginger) and enough icy sweetness from the banana and other spices! Delish! Just a tip, Starbucks used to sell an apple chai. They will still make it for you if you ask, but it’s easy to make at home. Mix approximately equal parts natural apple juice and chai concentrate. Microwave/heat until hot. Hands-down my favorite drink!
Thuy Duong says
I want to know if you can always substitute vanilla extract with just pure vanilla flavor, the difference between the two is pure vanilla flavor contains no alcohol unlike regular vanilla extract. I just want to know if it will make a difference in your milkshakes since it will alter the taste. An example, is from this website: http://www.singingdogvanilla.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=KGB&Product_Code=AFVF002&Category_Code=PVE
compare
http://www.singingdogvanilla.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=KGB&Product_Code=PVE002&Category_Code=PVE
Melinda says
I made this today, and it was ahhhmazing! However, I made a slight variation. Instead of adding all the spies, and brewing tea, I used unsweetened Oregon Chai Latte Concentrate.
Thuy Duong says
Hey Katie! Can I use both the spices and brew the chai tea bag for a stronger flavor? If I only use either one will the flavor be the same as of the other one I didn’t use? If I use only the spices will it have the same flavor as the chai tea bag without all the spices? I was wondering if you recreated the spices to be a similar flavor of the chai tea bag. And I wasn’t clear on the instruction of should the spices be in a powdered form or a seed form?
Chocolate-Covered Katie says
Powdered form. I’ve only tried it with one or the other, not both.
Megan says
YUMMM! I just made this with my breakfast and holy cow, delicious. my only thing is next time i’m gonna cut back on the ginger a little (just my liking.) Thanks so much for this awesome recipe!!:)
Thuy Duong says
When I asked about the flavor of this recipe before, I wanted to know if the spices will taste the same as the chai tea bag, I’m meant that if you’re going to omit the spices and exchange for the chai tea bag it must taste the same right? Can you explain why you have it like that because I’m confused as to which kind of flavor it will come out if I only use the spices or only use the chai tea bag, do both of these have a different flavor? If it has a similar flavor as each other I want to know how you got the mixed spices to taste the same like the chai tea bag because I was wondering if you had to reinvent the flavor of the chai tea bag with the spices mixed in together?
Cari says
You are incredible! I made this yesterday morning for breakfast and had thoughts of it being a breakfast, lunch, and dinner sort of thing. AMAZING!!!! Didn’t even need sweetener. Thank you for another indulgence I feel guilt-free about eating. :o)
Sarah says
Just made this milkshake… no sweetener needed… MMMMMMMMM!!!! It was perfect!
Your recipes are amazing. THANK YOU!
Jillyb says
Chai vanilla shake – incredible!!! I subbed a piece of fresh ginger since we don’t have any powdered on hand and it was perfect. Lovely. Amazing. Thanks!
k says
Can you taste the banana in this? I’m not a huge banana fan…
ea-the spicy rd says
I make a similar shake I call Banana Spice Eggnog, and I add pumpkin pie spice to the mix-delicious. Your version looks fabulous! I never had a bike when I was there, but I went to SMU too, although that was many, many years ago 🙂
Marcy says
This looks so good and I can’t wait to try it. I love your recipes since I have such a sweet tooth. The brownie batter pancakes are one of my favorites for breakfast ever 🙂
Rae Howard says
Oh Katie…….Loved this shake. Turned out great even though I couldn’t find the vanilla extract and substituted fresh ginger for the powdered. Super creamy and tastes like it should be bad for you. I will have to make some vegan whipped cream, sprinkle with my homemake choc crunch topping (just choc powder, coconut oil and agave heated poured on cookie sheet put in freezer broken up into little pieces) and a sprinkle of cinnamon-just to make me feel special.
Cheers,
Rae
Andrea says
Just made this for breakfast! It’s a long weekend so a shake for breakfast sounds pretty perfect to me! I know you like it when people try substitutions on your recipes and report back for others, so this is what I did: I don’t like using frozen bananas (perhaps I just haven’t mastered the art of unpeeling them), so I just used a regular banana and added some vanilla frozen yogurt. I also used vanilla soy milk so I didn’t add the vanilla extract or any added sweetener. It’s delicious! (As for the frozen yogurt: obviously this wouldn’t work for vegans, but like you said, a vegan could use dairy free ice cream of some sort!)
Thuy Duong says
How come you didn’t use the herb fennel?
Jennifer G says
Katie! I just made this it was GREAT! Thank you!
laura says
So great i happened to have a frozen banana!! HA! Ive cut back on chai lattes as i am trying to loose weight and have GERD. (Tea is sometimes hard for me although i LOVE it) any way.
Im drinking one right now. YUM. very satisfying. thank you. I share your site with everyone. keep up the good work laura
Amy says
Have you ever tried one of your desserts that is in a liquid form & turn it in an ice cream consistency in a Vitamix 6300? In other words have you ever tried 1 of your recipes like the one on this page(milk shakes, smoothies, & etc.) in a Vitamix & put it on Frozen Desserts function because I’d love to know the results since I know that the Vitamix can prepare a soft serve consistency & I thought that your recipes(I’m only talking of recipes that are capable of making an ice cream flavor) would of went great with it. I hope you will try it out or at least do demos & tell us your results I’ll bet the consistency will be smoother & tastier since the Vitamix grind down everything.
Tracy Biddle says
just made this! one of the best things ive ever had. me and my mom went crazy over it!
thank you chocolatecoveredkatie!!!
Suniti says
Can I replace pure vanilla extract with vanilla pod? If yes, how?
Lily says
OMG, Katie. This. Is. So. Awesome.
Chloe says
how long will this keep in the fridge??
Kate says
Sounds good! A company here in the UK makes chocolate chai. Bet that would really float your boat
Robin says
I always add 1/2 cup white beans to my chai shake… you don’t even know it’s there!
Ashley says
This was delicious! It had the flavor of the chai lattes enjoy from Starbucks, but without the caffeine! The only problem was that my thirteen-month-old son kept hogging it! Need to make a bigger serving next time 🙂
Penny says
I made this with home made almond milk and home made chai spice mix, sweetened with two dates and froze it into popsicles. So yummy! Next time, I’ll reduce the chai to 1/2 tsp and only use 1 date.
Marion says
It’s delicous! Thank you for this yummy recipe!
Joanna says
Just made this shake with raw cows milk and cream, and it’s AMAZING. So simple. Why didn’t I think of it?
Melissa says
Oh my gosh, I just made this and it’s sooooooo good! I made it with coconut milk, a little honey and no ice cream and it was just perfect! The kids loved it too – although I dialed way back on the cloves and cardamom for them. Thank you! This will be a new regular recipe for us 🙂 We also love your deep dish chocolate chip cookie pie, especially since it’s so easy for my young kids to make with me and it’s so tasty – we had it the other day with a small scoop of mint chip ice cream on top.
Sarah says
If I want to go the chai tea bag route, are there any brands you like best or recommend?
Thanks!
Unofficial CCK Helper says
Try Bigelow. It can be found in most grocery stores and is really good!
Kaitlyn Elmore says
This is absolutely amazing!! Thank you!
Andie says
I made this this morning, only without the banana and cardamom (good thing I looked too, or I would’ve put coriander in instead!) THIS IS DELICIOUS!!! I added extra almond milk and probably 7 or 8 tsp of stevia. This is absolutely fantastic
Katharine says
My two-year old LOVES these! We have them at breakfast almost every morning, and he will ask for them after nap time, too. Thanks for giving me a healthy alternative to juice!
TeriN says
I was disappointed to read the, “I detest pepper” comment. My Indian friends taught me to make chai using white pepper. It gives a wonderfully mysterious “bite” to the chai experience. Taste is completely different than black pepper….try it!
Natasha says
Super tasty!
Made mine in a single serve blender with a little less milk, turned out exactly like soft serve ice cream! Might have been because the banana I used was pretty large, though.
Either way, super delicious!!
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Brenda says
WOW! A kindred spirit – I detest pepper too. My husband has to add it if he wants it. I never cook with it.
I will be trying this shake as soon as the snow is over here – Mother’s day and we have 6 inches of snow.
Morgan says
Just made this for a mid-day snack and it was SO GOOD! Coming back here for some more recipes!
Angie says
Another hit Katie!!! I love chai so I figured this would be good. I added vanilla protein powder for that extra boost! Thanks and please keep these delicious breakfast shakes and smoothies coming yours are by far the best!
Gina says
YUM!!!! I just had to make 2 in a row because I wouldn’t share with my 6 year old daughter, who also loved it. One of my new favorites!!
Chocolate Covered Katie says
🙂 Thank you for making them!
Kasey says
Or you could plan ahead and the night before heat the cup of milk and put a chai teabag in it to infuse the chai flavors. Refrigerate overnight and use in the smoothie in the morning. Works great if you are not someone that has all the spices in your cupboard.
Steven says
I would suggest adding some vanilla whey protein powder
Britt K says
You can also add the contents of a chai tea bag and blend!
Holly Robinson says
Looks amazing!! I don’t have all the right spices though, so will have to get some. I have lots of frozen banana and plant milk though 🙂
Karen Hilbert says
Very good! Nice change from fruit and veggie smoothies.
Cho says
That…was heaven.
Belsante says
Aaah, just brewed a chai teabag in milk and chilled in the fridge when I realised I’d run out of bananas!
Tonia says
What did you use for the whipped cream? Do you have a recipe?
I must make this weekend!
Sarah says
Katie, this was so good!! I needed to use up some plain greek yogurt that my husband mistakenly bought so I did half yogurt, half water instead of milk. It was definitely more of a smoothie consistency, but still delicious. I’ll be making this one again and again!