Spiced Coffee Chai with Ethiopian Cardamom and Cinnamon

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-04-27 · Updated 2026-04-27

A fragrant hot beverage blending strong coffee with warming Ethiopian cardamom and cinnamon spices. This Ethiopian-inspired recipe, ready in about 20 minutes, brings together water, ground coffee, whole cardamom pods 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 110 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 tbsp ground coffee
• 4, slightly crushed whole cardamom pods
• 1 whole cinnamon stick
• 1 tsp black tea leaves
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tsp, adjust to taste sugar

The coffee makers we’d brew this with → Best Coffee Makers in 2026: Top Picks + Buying Guide

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a small saucepan, combine 2 cups water, 4 slightly crushed whole cardamom pods, and 1 whole cinnamon stick. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and simmer for 5 minutes to infuse the spices.
2. Step 2: Add 2 tbsp ground coffee and 1 tsp black tea leaves to the spiced water. Stir gently, cover, and simmer on low heat for 3 minutes.
3. Step 3: Remove from heat and strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a clean pot or teapot.
4. Step 4: Return the strained liquid to the stove and add 1 cup milk and 2 tsp sugar. Heat gently over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves and the beverage is hot but not boiling.
5. Step 5: Serve immediately in warmed cups, enjoying the rich aroma of cardamom and cinnamon blended with coffee.