Spiced Chai Latte Glaze Cookies

If you’re craving a cookie that carries the warm, comforting essence of your favorite chai latte, then these Spiced Chai Latte Glaze Cookies are exactly what you need. Imagine soft, buttery cookies infused with aromatic spices like cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves, finished with a luscious chai tea glaze that adds a subtle sweetness and a hint of spice. Perfect for cozy afternoons, festive gatherings, or simply treating yourself to a little indulgence, these cookies bring the magic of chai into every bite. Ready to bake your way to chai-flavored bliss? Let’s dive right in.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This recipe stands out because it captures the essence of a classic chai latte in cookie form. The combination of warming spices—cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves—creates a perfectly balanced flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting. The glaze, made from brewed chai tea and powdered sugar, adds a subtle sweetness and a beautiful glossy finish that elevates these cookies from simple to spectacular. Plus, these cookies have a tender crumb thanks to the perfect balance of baking powder and baking soda, and the hint of vanilla and milk ensures richness without heaviness. Whether you’re a chai lover or just looking for a unique cookie experience, these Spiced Chai Latte Glaze Cookies will not disappoint.

What We’re Using

• 2 cups all-purpose flour – The base of our cookies, providing structure.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the cookies rise gently for a tender texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Works with the acidic ingredients to create lift.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – The star spice in chai, warm and sweet.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger – Adds a bit of zing and spice.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom – Floral and citrusy, giving chai that signature aroma.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves – Deep, aromatic spice that rounds out the chai flavor.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – For richness and tender crumb.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cookies perfectly.
• 1 large egg – Binds everything together and adds moisture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds depth and warmth to the dough.
• 1/4 cup milk – Keeps the dough soft and helps with texture.
• 1 cup powdered sugar – For the glaze’s smooth sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons brewed chai tea, cooled – Infuses the glaze with chai flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze) – Adds a hint of warmth to the glaze.

Tools of the Trade

• Mixing bowls – For combining wet and dry ingredients separately.
• Electric mixer or hand mixer – To cream butter and sugar for perfect texture.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accuracy is key in baking.
• Whisk – For smooth glaze mixing.
• Baking sheet – To bake your cookies evenly.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – Prevents sticking and eases cleanup.
• Cooling rack – Allows cookies to cool properly without sogginess.
• Spoon or piping bag – For drizzling or spreading the glaze.

Spiced Chai Latte Glaze Cookies: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to ensure your cookies don’t stick and bake evenly.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves. This ensures the spices are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is crucial for tender cookies.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. The egg adds moisture and structure, while vanilla enhances the flavor.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep cookies tender.

Step 6: Scoop and Shape

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion the dough into small mounds about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons each. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are set and just beginning to turn golden. The centers will look soft but will firm up as they cool.

Step 8: Cool Completely

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely before glazing.

Step 9: Prepare the Chai Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, brewed chai tea, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. Adjust the consistency by adding more chai tea or powdered sugar as needed.

Step 10: Glaze the Cookies

Once the cookies are fully cooled, drizzle or spread the chai glaze over the top. Allow the glaze to set for at least 15 minutes before serving.

How to Make It Lighter

• Use a light butter or butter substitute with reduced fat content.
• Replace half the granulated sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, adjusting liquid ingredients accordingly.
• Swap whole milk for a lower-fat milk alternative or plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.
• Reduce the amount of glaze or use a thinner layer to cut down on sugar content.

Chef’s Notes

• For the best spice flavor, use freshly ground spices or toast whole spices and grind them yourself.
• Make sure the butter is softened, but not melted, to achieve the right cookie texture.
• The brewed chai tea for the glaze should be fully cooled to prevent melting the powdered sugar.
• If you prefer a stronger chai flavor, you can add a pinch of chai spice mix to the glaze as well.
• These cookies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of chai tea or coffee for an indulgent treat.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

Store your Spiced Chai Latte Glaze Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, place them in the fridge for up to 10 days. To maintain the glaze’s texture, avoid stacking cookies directly on top of one another unless separated by parchment paper.

For longer storage, freeze the cookies without glaze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and then add the glaze fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Ask the Chef

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it will result in denser cookies with a nuttier flavor. For best results, try using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour to keep the texture light.

What if I don’t have chai tea bags? Can I make my own chai spice blend?

Absolutely! You can make your own blend by combining cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, and black tea leaves. Brew it strong and cool before using it in the glaze.

Is it okay to omit the glaze?

Definitely! The cookies are delicious on their own with the warm spices. The glaze adds sweetness and visual appeal, but you can skip it if you prefer a simpler cookie.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

To make these cookies vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water), and replace milk with any plant-based milk. For the glaze, use a vegan powdered sugar and plant-based milk or brewed chai tea.

Serve & Enjoy

These Spiced Chai Latte Glaze Cookies are perfect served with a warm cup of chai tea, coffee, or even a cold glass of milk. Their inviting aroma and comforting spice blend make them an ideal treat for afternoon tea, holiday celebrations, or a cozy night in. Arrange them on a pretty platter or gift them in a decorative tin for a heartfelt homemade gift. The glaze adds a lovely shine and an extra layer of flavor that’s sure to impress friends and family alike.

With every bite, you’ll experience the perfect harmony of spice, sweetness, and buttery goodness that only Spiced Chai Latte Glaze Cookies can deliver. Happy baking and enjoy every delicious moment!

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