Paper bags
Chai
By the leaf
Chai.
Black tea armored with cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, pepper.
Brew temp
212°F
Steep time
5 min
Caffeine
high
The short answer
Brew chai tea at 212°F for 5 min. It runs high in caffeine. Black tea armored with cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, pepper.
What we recommend.
3 reviewsLoose leaf
Chai
Vahdam India's Original Masala Chai Loose Leaf
Blended at the source. CTC Assam that punches through milk without flinching.
Paper bags
Chai
Traditional Medicinals Organic Chai Tea Bags
Chai from a paper bag. Less fire, more convenience. Still earns the name.
FAQ
Chai tea, answered.
What temperature should I brew chai tea at?+
Chai tea brews best at 212°F. Match the water to the leaf — too hot and it turns bitter, too cool and it brews flat.
How long do you steep chai tea?+
Steep chai tea for 5 min. Pull the leaf at the end of that window rather than leaving it in the cup, or the later sips turn astringent.
Does chai tea have caffeine?+
Yes. Chai tea is high in caffeine, which makes it a strong morning option.
What's the best chai tea to buy?+
We rate Tazo Classic Chai Black Tea among the standouts — Double-strength brew. Steamed milk. Walk away. See all 3 chai picks reviewed above.
Brew it right
The full chai method — ratio, water, technique.