Ethiopian Coffee-Spiced Chocolate Chai

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-07-07 · Updated 2026-07-07

A rich and aromatic chai drink infused with Ethiopian coffee spices and a hint of dark chocolate for a comforting twist. This Ethiopian-inspired recipe, ready in about 20 minutes, brings together water, black tea leaves, Ethiopian coffee beans, crushed for a refreshing, crowd-pleasing drink — a bright, easy pour for parties, gatherings, or any warm-weather afternoon when you want something festive without alcohol-only options. Each serving lands at about 180 calories and feeds 2, so it works for entertaining, brunch, or a non-alcoholic option at the bar cart. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 2 cups water
• 2 tsp black tea leaves
• 1 tsp Ethiopian coffee beans, crushed
• 1 (3-inch) cinnamon stick
• 4, crushed cardamom pods
• 3 whole cloves
• 1 inch, sliced fresh ginger
• 1 oz, chopped dark chocolate
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 tbsp honey

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Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups water to a boil. Add 2 tsp black tea leaves, 1 tsp crushed Ethiopian coffee beans, 1 cinnamon stick, 4 crushed cardamom pods, 3 whole cloves, and 1 inch sliced fresh ginger. Reduce heat and simmer gently for 10 minutes to infuse flavors.
2. Step 2: Remove from heat and strain the spiced tea mixture into a clean pot, discarding solids.
3. Step 3: Return strained tea to medium heat, add 1 oz chopped dark chocolate, stirring constantly until melted and fully incorporated.
4. Step 4: Stir in 1 cup whole milk and 2 tbsp honey, warming the chai for 3-4 minutes until hot but not boiling.
5. Step 5: Pour into mugs and serve immediately for a warming, spiced beverage.