Rose Chai (Tea) With Rose Petals
Rose chai or rose chai latte is the perfect way to enjoy chai with a twist. While I usually have it warm, I also think it is delicious served over ice or as a frappe as well.
Rose water and rose petals are a delicious addition to Masala Chai.
This recipe is basically traditional Indian Masala Chai combined with a beautiful floral rose flavor to make this delicious Rose Chai. It is sold here in the States often as Rose Chai Latte, but I like this version with more Indian flavor and spices.
If you like different types of chai, you’ll find this easy chai spice powder handy. Use it to also try making Chocolate Chai and Biscoff Chai.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Unique taste | Floral notes in your cup of tea are a fun way to change up your usual cup of chai
Versatile | Customize the chai spices to adjust to your preferences
Perfect for any gathering | A fun treat to serve
Ingredient Notes
Black tea – You can use either loose black tea or tea bags. I always use the Wagh Bakri brand for loose tea when making chai. My family used to use Lipton tea bags before the switch over to loose tea.
Chai Masala Powder – You can either use the chai masala powder you regularly use or make your own fresh blend, as outlined in the recipe card below.
I think certain spices such as cardamom, ginger and a hint of cinnamon/clove pairs beautifully with the rose flavor and lets it shine.
Rose water – I use Nielsen Massey brand rose water. It is very strong so only a small amount is needed since it goes a long way. Dependent on the brand you use, I suggest tasting the tea before adding more.
Organic rose petals – Make sure you use food-grade rose petals. If you don’t have it you can skip it and substitute 1/2 tsp of additional rose water.
Sugar – I’ve used white sugar. Feel free to use the sweetener of your choice. Brown sugar, coconut sugar, maple syrup, and honey all work. Just taste and adjust to your preference for sweetness.
Milk – I usually use 2% milk. You can also use whole milk for a creamier cup. Feel free to substitute with plant-based milk for a vegan option.
Variations
Mix up the spices used: Some ideas include cardamom, Star anise, black pepper, fennel seeds
Cold chai: Let it cool and blend with ice for a rose chai frappe or mix with ice cubes for an iced version
Making it vegan: Substitute plant-based milk to make this recipe vegan. I would go with oat milk or something like Ripple (available in the US) as they are thicker and will make a creamier chai.
Making It
Making it the way authentic Indian tea is made.
You have two options for chai spice:
- Use your store-bought or homemade chai spice blend
- Make the spice blend as outlined in the recipe card below
To make rose chai:
- Place water, sugar, rose petals, chai spices, and tea powder or tea bags in a pot on medium-high heat on the stove.
- Let it come to a simmer and the rolling boil for about 3-4 minutes.
- Add milk and let it come to a boil.
- Let boil for 6-7 minutes.
- Add rose water and turn off the stove.
- Strain tea with a tea strainer and serve.
Serving Suggestions
Place a few rose buds on the side for decor
A cup of chai goes well with both sweet and savory Indian snacks.
Sweet snack ideas: Pistachio Saffron Cookies, Masala Chai Cookies, Indian Cakes
Savory snack ideas: Tater Tot Chaat, Masala Puri, Cereal Chevdo, Poha Chivda, and Sev Mamra
It goes well with non-Indian snacks and meals too, of course!
Try with Sugar Cookies.
Storing
Freshly brewed chai is best served fresh!
FAQ
Does rose chai have caffeine?
Depending on the type of black tea you use, rose chai can be made as a caffeinated or caffeine-free tea. Rose tea can also be made using only rose petals and rose water to make a rose milk tea.
Rose Chai (Tea) With Rose Petals
Equipment
- 1 Pot
- 1 tea strainer
Ingredients
- 1½ cup water
- 2 tsp tea leaves I use Wagh Bakri. Can also use tea bags.
- 3 tsp sugar
- ½ tsp chai spice powder
- 1 tbsp rose petals (food grade), substitute ½ tsp rose water if you don't have it½
- 1½ cup milk milk or choice, can substitute dairy free milk
- 2 tsp rose water dependent on brand and strength of rose water you can adjust by adding ½ tsp extra if needed
Instructions
- Place water, sugar, chai spice powder, rose petals and loose leaf tea or tea bags in a pot on medium-high heat on the stove.
- Let it come to a simmer and rolling boil for about 3-4 minutes.
- Add milk to the hot water. Let it come to a boil. Turn to medium heat.
- Let simmer for 6-7 minutes. Turn off stove.
- Add rose water and stir.
- Strain tea with a tea strainer and serve.