A tea latte is a regular order in my household. I love making them and I love drinking them. Like the coffee-based lattes, they are creamy, comforting and an indulgent treat. But, tea lattes do not always have to be caffeinated. In fact, when you’re craving a tea latte in the mid-afternoon or evening it’s probably better to grab a caffeine-free tea latte. Caffeine-free lattes can be made with herbal teas (also known as tisanes). Chamomile is a popular option as it’s soothing with its bittersweet and floral profile. This chamomile tea latte recipe is made with honey and a splash of vanilla for extra flavour and cozy vibes. It’s the best latte to drink before your head hits the pillow.
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What is Chamomile?
Originating in Ancient Eygpt, Chamomile (also spelled camomile) is a plant that can be cultivated and used for herbal tea. It is a member of Asteraceae family.
German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) and Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) are the two main varieties of chamomile. Generally, German chamomile is stronger than the lighter and sweeter Roman chamomile variety.
Similar to tiny daisies, chamomile flowers are white with yellow centers. As the flowers open, the flowers and buds are harvested and dried for chamomile tea.
Although it is technically not tea because it does not come from the tea plant (Camellia Sinensis), chamomile can be steeped similar to tea. Thus, chamomile tea would be classified as an herbal tea or tisane.
In fact, it’s a very popular option for those that want a naturally caffeine-free tea.
Behind the Name
The term chamomile comes from the Greek word “chamomaela” meaning earth apple or ground apple. This describes the apple-like aroma that chamomile is known for.
Chamomile can be pronounced 1 of 2 ways: kam-oh-meel or kam-oh-mile.
What does chamomile tea taste like?
Chamomile tea has a silky mouthfeel with a delicate floral taste along with subtle fruity notes similar to apples. A natural honey-like sweetness lingers, too.
Overall, it’s a very mellow and soothing cup of tea that is a favourite before bed time.
This herbal infusion can be enjoyed hot, iced or cold brewed.
Chamomile Tea Health Benefits
When herbs are discussed there is usually a question about benefits. I do not drink any tea for health benefits and consider whatever there to be as an added bonus.
However, there are studies that show that chamomile tea may be beneficial towards a few different things:
- Soothing indigestion
- Promoting a good night’s sleep
- Relieving sore throats
Please note that you should always consult a medical professional before taking any herbs for health purposes.
Where to Buy Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea is available in tea bags and loose leaf form. Below is a list of recommendations on where to buy either.
- Cozy Chamomile Tea from Bigelow
- Egyptian Chamomile Tea from Art of Tea
- Organic Chamomile Herbal Tea from Culinary Teas
- Chamomile Herbal Tea (pyramid bags) from Teatulia
How to Make Chamomile Tea
Making a cup of chamomile tea is fairly simple.
Start by boiling 1 cup of water. Since it is an herb, it’s not as delicate as some teas and chamomile can be steeped at a higher temperature.
Pour the freshly boiled water in a mug with 1 chamomile tea bag or 1 tablespoon of chamomile tea. Cover and let steep for 3-5 minutes.
Remove or strain the tea leaves or tea bag from the mug and enjoy!
If desired, you can add sweetener and milk of your choice or make a chamomile latte.
Ingredients for this Chamomile Tea Latte Recipe
– Chamomile
There are measurements in the recipe below for both loose leaf and tea bags. Use whatever you have in your tea cupboard currently.
– Water
Freshly boiled at 100°C or 212°F
– Honey
Add a touch of sweetness to this calming latte with honey as it compliments the floral characteristics of chamomile beautifully. Adjust to your desired taste.
– Vanilla
Pure or artificial vanilla extract works.
– Milk
I like using 1% or 2% milk for this latte. Oat milk or almond milk are other great options if you’re looking for something dairy-free.
How to Make a Chamomile Tea Latte
Here is what you will need:
2 chamomile tea bags or 2 teaspoons loose leaf chamomile
1/2 cup water, freshly boiled (100°C/212°F)
1 tablespoon honey (plus extra for garnish, optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup milk
Directions:
Steep chamomile tea bags (or loose leaf) in freshly boiled water for 5 minutes, covered.
After steeping, remove tea bags or strain tea leaves. Then, stir honey until dissolved.
Heat milk and vanilla and froth. You can do this in a small pot on the stove with a handheld frother or with an electric frother.
Add the frothed vanilla flavoured milk to the cup of chamomile tea.
Drizzle top with more honey, if desired.
Get on your comfiest pajamas, grab a good book or put on a favourite TV series and enjoy the caffeine-free latte before bed!
Chamomile Tea Latte
Ingredients
- 2 chamomile tea bags or 2 teaspoons loose leaf chamomile
- 1/2 cup water freshly boiled (100°C/212°F)
- 1 tablespoon honey plus extra for garnish, optional
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup milk
Instructions
- Steep chamomile tea (loose leaf or tea bags) in freshly boiled water for 5 minutes. Cover while steeping.
- After steeping, remove tea bags or strain tea leaves. Stir honey until dissolved.
- Heat milk and vanilla together. Froth until it doubles in volume. You can do this in a small pot on the stove with a handheld frother or with an electric frother.
- Add the frothed vanilla flavoured milk to the cup of chamomile tea. Drizzle top with more honey, if desired.
- Sip and feel at ease!
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Have you tried chamomile tea as a latte before? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!