Smoky Victorian Tea Latte is a drink I reach for when I want something soothing but a little different from my usual tea or coffee.
The gentle smokiness from the tea leaves blends beautifully with creamy milk and a touch of sweetener, creating a cozy, slightly mysterious flavor.
I love making it in the afternoon while reading or unwinding, and it’s surprisingly simple to prepare at home.
Behind the Recipe
This recipe came from my curiosity about classic Victorian teas and the subtle smokiness that lapsang souchong tea offers. I wanted a creamy, comforting drink that combines the old-world tea flavors with a modern latte twist. After a few experiments with milk ratios and sweeteners, this version felt just right: smooth, smoky, and lightly sweet. Inspired by Victorian-era smoked teas, reimagined as a modern latte.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Smooth, creamy texture with gentle smokiness
- Simple ingredients and quick to prepare
- Perfect for afternoon tea or a relaxing evening
- Lightly sweet, easy to adjust to taste
- A unique twist on traditional tea
- Comforting without being heavy
- Can be made vegan or dairy-free
Chef’s Pro Tips
- Steep the tea slightly longer for stronger smoky flavor.
- Use whole milk for creaminess, or a plant-based milk alternative.
- Sweeten gradually—smoky tea can become overpowering if too much sugar is added.
- Froth the milk slightly for a café-style finish.
- Taste as you go; lapsang souchong can be strong.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Small saucepan
- Teapot or steeping vessel
- Whisk or milk frother
- Mug or heatproof glass
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients in This Recipe
- Lapsang Souchong Tea (1 tsp or 1 tea bag): Provides a rich, smoky base flavor.
- Milk (1 cup): Dairy or plant-based; adds creaminess and balances smoke.
- Honey or Maple Syrup (1–2 tsp): Light sweetness that complements the smoky notes.
- Vanilla Extract (¼ tsp, optional): Enhances warmth and aroma.
- Ground Cinnamon or Nutmeg (optional, pinch): Adds subtle spice for depth.
- Note: Makes 1 large latte (10–12 oz)
Ingredient Substitutions
- Almond, oat, or soy milk for dairy-free option.
- Agave syrup or sugar in place of honey.
- Skip vanilla extract if you prefer pure smoky flavor.
- Use a different black tea for milder smoke, like a smoked Earl Grey.
Smoky Victorian Tea Latte
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brew lapsang souchong with ½–¾ cup hot water, Steep 3–5 minutes, Strain or remove tea bag.
- Heat the milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.
- Froth the warm milk using a whisk or milk frother until lightly foamy.
- Stir honey or sweetener into the brewed tea, then pour the hot milk over it, finishing with foam on top.
- Serve immediately while warm.
Ingredient Spotlight
Lapsang Souchong Tea: Its signature smokiness defines the latte and gives it a unique Victorian feel.
Honey: Balances the smoke without overpowering the delicate flavors of the tea.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Prepare the brewed tea in advance and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
- Heat milk and mix with tea just before serving for best flavor.
- Once milk is added, consume immediately or within the same day.
What to Serve With It
- Classic Butter Scones
- Shortbread Cookies
- Victorian-Style Tea Cakes
- Almond Biscotti
- Cucumber Salad
- Sandwiches
Creative Leftover Transformations
- Pour over ice for a chilled smoky tea latte.
- Blend with a small scoop of ice cream for a smoky float.
- Use as a base for a creamy tea smoothie with banana or oats.
Variations to Try
- Vanilla Smoky Latte: Add extra ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Spiced Victorian Latte: Add a pinch of cardamom or cloves.
- Iced Smoky Tea Latte: Chill the latte and serve over ice.
- Chocolate Smoky Latte: Stir in 1 teaspoon cocoa powder for a chocolate twist.
- Maple Smoky Latte: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a richer flavor.
FAQ’s
- Can I make it dairy-free? Yes, almond, oat, or soy milk works perfectly.
- Can I make it stronger? Steep tea a bit longer for more smokiness.
- Is it sweet? Adjust honey or syrup to taste.
- Can kids drink it? Yes, without alcohol or other add-ins.
- Can I make a batch ahead? Brew tea ahead; combine with warm milk before serving.
- Can I add spices? Yes, cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom work well.
- Can I serve it iced? Yes, pour over ice after combining.
- Does it froth well? Yes, milk frother enhances the creamy texture.
- Can I use other teas? Smoked Earl Grey works for milder smoke.
- Can it be stored? Tea can be stored for 24 hours; add milk just before serving.
I’m Mahek Manchanda, the curious heart behind Dramatically Stirring. Before this space existed, my life revolved around kitchens that were loud, demanding, and endlessly alive. I didn’t arrive at cooking through a single dramatic moment.
