The best sp-ICED Chai Tea Latte!

Hey friends! Well, the summer is drawing to an end, and the school year is upon us! This is the first time since I was five that I don't have to go to school. I have many friends who are becoming teachers, finishing college, starting grad school, and even some that are sending their own kids to school! It is so much fun getting to see little ones on their first day of school. And, a lot more fun than when I was actually IN school! ;) am I right, or am I right?

And while I'm not in classes anymore, I find myself hungering for growth, knowledge, and wisdom. There are so many things I want to learn, and it seems like not enough time to learn them! From canning and pickling, to spanish, gardening, making a budget and a weekly menu, there is still SO much to learn! While I haven't gotten to most of this list yet, something I HAVE gotten to is finding new and amazing recipes! This one in particular is especially great!

It's not quite fall yet; however, I think I can safely assume that we are ready for some cooler weather! While the coveted Pumpkin Spice Latte hasn't reached Starbuck's lovers yet, here's a refreshing new recipe I found that will help keep you cool, and your taste buds satifsied!

This picture isn't posed at all! ;)

Before we get to the recipe that ACTUALLY works, let's reflect on this recipe I tried last year at Thanksgiving. I don't even actually remember where the recipe is, but it was one that was from scratch, and had about 10 very costly ingredients in it. In the picture, you can see the cinnamon sticks, cardamon, vanilla bean, star of anise, black pepper, ground cloves, fresh ginger, and grated orange zest. In all, I think it probably cost of $5 per cup... and it wasn't even good! The whole recipe only made enough for maybe 4 cups and took over an hour to cook. Total bummer.

That is why I am SO excited about this recipe! Totally simple, cheap, and makes a TON!

I'm not going to lie, I found this wonderful recipe in the box with my new Iced Tea Maker we got as a wedding gift, and it's is GOLD! If you love iced tea- black, green, herbal- or if you love iced coffee, I would HIGHLY recommend you get this iced tea maker! It makes 2 quarts and is perfect for parties or just keeping all to yourself! My mom also has this tea maker, and she's had it for over 10 years, so I know this will last me a long time!! It's also only $20, which is a great investment, if you're like me and love iced tea. (And no, I am not getting paid to say this!)

Now, for what you've been waiting for.

You will need:
6-8 bags of chai tea packets, I used TAZO (at least 6, but more if you like it spicy)
1/2 C canned sweetened condensed milk
2 heaping Tbs sugar
Ice

Now, fill up the water pitcher to the designated line and pour into reservoir. Fill with ice to the top line. Pour sweetened condensed milk over ice. Take the tea bags out of the packet and put them in the top of the dripper (scientific, official name of course). Put the lid on and up to the mouth of the tea maker and press the button!

During Brewing. You just know this is going to be good!

After brewing, with a large serving spoon or spatula, stir the chai goodness around until well combined. Stir in the sugar until dissolved and serve! It's that simple!! Serve in cute glasses with a dash of cinnamon on top to make yourself feel fancy.

There you have it! Super simple, and each can of condensed milk can make at least 2 batches of tea! So serve it at brunches, book clubs, what have you and let everyone be amazed and refreshed at the super cool recipe you brought! Just don't tell them how easy it was ;)

Have a blessed weekend!