Nothing beats a delicious hot drink, especially on a cold day. If you’re like me who enjoys Vanilla Chai Tea Latte from your favorite coffee shop, you might enjoy this homemade latte recipe.

Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes Yields: 2 12-oz. servings or 4 6-oz. servings

INGREDIENTS

Whole milk Cardamom pods Whole allspice Whole cloves Star anise Cinnamon sticks Fresh ginger Real vanilla extract Honey  Black tea bags

INGREDIENTS

Optional Garnish: Ground cinnamon and/or whole star anise

SUPPLIES USED

Cave Tools Meat Tenderizer Mallet

DIRECTIONS

Step #1. Pour milk into a large skillet set over slightly less than medium heat. Tip: Set temperature between medium and medium-low. The milk should get very warm, but not scald.

DIRECTIONS

Step #2. Place the cardamom pods, allspice, and cloves in a plastic bag and place on a cutting board.

DIRECTIONS

Gently pound on the spices with a meat mallet or rolling pin just until they crack. (They should remain mostly whole, but opened up a bit).

DIRECTIONS

Step #3. Add the cracked spices, star anise, cinnamon sticks, ginger, vanilla extract, and honey to the skillet and stir to combine.

DIRECTIONS

Simmer until the milk is very warm and fragrant, approximately 5-6 minutes, then add the tea bags to brew for another 5 minutes.

DIRECTIONS

Step #4. Remove from heat and discard the tea bags, squeezing first to release as much flavor as possible. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer, reserving the liquid.

DIRECTIONS

Step #5. Pour the remaining mixture into a blender and blend on high for 1-2 minutes, or until a nice foam develops.

DIRECTIONS

Tip: Make sure the blender cap is properly vented to prevent the hot liquid from exploding.

DIRECTIONS

Step #6. Divide the liquid from the blender among the serving mugs and top off each with a big spoonful of foam. Sprinkle with a dash of cinnamon and garnish with star anise, if desired.