If you are a chai lover, you probably want to enjoy your tea with a favorite meal without losing that sweet or savory taste. Below, we have rounded up some food you can take with your chai, from fruits, cheesecake, and ice cream to pudding. But first, let's see what chai is and the kind of spices you can use.
What flavours go with chai latte
Let’s keep this simple. Chai is bold, warming and full of spice—so it goes best with food that’s:
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Creamy (to mellow out the spice)
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Buttery (to balance the boldness)
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Spiced (to complement the flavours)
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Mildly sweet (so it doesn’t overpower the tea)
If you’ve ever had a chai latte with a cinnamon scroll, you know what we’re talking about.
Here are some flavour matches with chai tea that work every time:
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Vanilla or honey adds sweetness without clashing
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Cinnamon or nutmeg echoes the spice of the tea
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Cardamom or ginger heightens the warmth
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Dairy or oat milk adds creamy depth to the drink
In short: chai latte loves flavours that feel cosy, rich, and slightly sweet - but not too sugary.
What savoury treats to pair with chai?
Chai isn’t just for sweet tooths. In fact, some of the best chai pairings are savoury.
Here are Aussie- and South Asian-approved savoury snacks to enjoy with your next cup:
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Samosas – Crispy, golden and filled with spicy potato or meat. Iconic and unbeatable.
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Pakoras – Veggie fritters that bring the crunch. Perfect on a rainy arvo.
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Medu Vada – South Indian lentil donuts. Soft inside, crispy outside, spicy all over.
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Buttered toast or a cheese toastie – Simple, warm, satisfying.
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Roasted nuts – Almonds, pistachios or cashews with a touch of salt or spice.
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Cheese and crackers – Brie with multigrain crackers = game changer.
These savoury options cut through the chai’s spice and create a more balanced, filling tea break. Perfect for a mid-morning snack or lazy weekend brunch.
What desserts to pair with chai
If your chai moment feels incomplete without a sweet treat, you’re not alone. The spice of chai pairs beautifully with classic desserts—especially ones that are buttery, mildly spiced, or not-too-sweet.
Here’s your dessert hit-list for chai pairing:
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Shortbread or butter biscuits – For the ultimate dunk.
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Scones with jam and cream – An afternoon tea staple.
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Ginger snaps – Spicy meets spicy.
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Vanilla sponge or pound cake – Soft and subtle enough to let the chai shine.
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Carrot cake – Especially if it’s got cinnamon and nuts.
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Pancakes or crepes – With a drizzle of maple or honey.
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Milk chocolate – A little indulgence to balance the spice.
Whether you’re having a full-on dessert or just a biscuit on the side, chai brings out the best in warm, comforting sweets.
What chocolates pairs well with chai?
Wondering what chocolate pairs well with chai tea? You’re not alone. The rich, spiced notes of chai and the smooth, sweet comfort of chocolate are a surprisingly perfect match. But not all chocolate is created equal when it comes to pairing with chai.
Here’s how to get it right:
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Milk chocolate: This is your safest bet. Its creamy sweetness softens chai’s bold spice without overpowering it. It’s like a cosy hug in every bite and sip.
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Dark chocolate (under 70%): If you prefer something richer, go for a dark chocolate that’s not too bitter. Think smooth and slightly fruity, not dry or sharp.
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Chilli chocolate: Feeling adventurous? Try chocolate with a subtle chilli or spice - it plays beautifully with chai’s ginger and peppercorn kick.
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Chai-infused chocolate: Yes, it exists! Some artisan brands now offer bars infused with cardamom, cinnamon or masala spice blends - bringing the whole chai experience full circle.
Avoid: overly bitter dark chocolate or citrus-filled options—they tend to clash with chai’s warmth and can feel off balance.
What fruit pairs well with chai?
Fruit might not be the first thing you think of with chai, but when done right, it works beautifully. The trick is to avoid sour or overly citrusy fruit, which can clash with the tea’s spice.
Best fruit for chai:
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Dried fruits like figs, dates, raisins, apricots, or prunes. Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with chai.
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Fresh mango, banana, or pear – Sweet and soft fruits that hold up to chai’s boldness.
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Fruit and nut mix – Add in some roasted almonds or cashews for the perfect snack.
Pro tip: If you’re making a chai platter (yes, that’s a thing), throw on a handful of dried fruit and nuts - it’s an easy, no-fuss way to make your tea moment feel fancy.
What is traditionally served with chai?
In many Indian and South Asian homes, chai is never served alone. It’s part of a daily routine - and it always comes with a snack.
Here are some traditional chai companions that have stood the test of time:
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Parle-G or Marie biscuits – Iconic. Simple. Perfect for dunking.
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Rusk – Crunchy, twice-baked bread that soaks up chai like a sponge.
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Samosas and pakoras – The go-to pairing for guests or family gatherings.
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Namkeen – A savoury Indian snack mix (kind of like spiced trail mix).
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Murukku – South Indian crunchy snack spirals.
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Toast with butter or jam – A quick and comforting classic.
If you're looking to replicate the chai and snack culture at home, these traditional pairings are where to start.
Explore the Best Chai at Monk’s Chai
Now that you know what food to eat with chai, let’s talk about the chai itself.
If you’re looking for a bold, aromatic brew with real ingredients and no fillers, you’ll love Monk’s Organic Specialty Chai. It’s handcrafted in Australia using:
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Organic Assam tea
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Whole spices like cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, and star anise
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Natural agave nectar to bind the blend and add a touch of sweetness
All you need to do is simmer a spoonful in your milk of choice for a few minutes, strain, and enjoy. The result? A rich, spiced cup that’s as good as any café chai - if not better.
And yes, it goes beautifully with everything on this list.
So next time you pop the kettle on, grab a snack, find your spot, and settle in. It’s not just tea. It’s a moment.
