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Smoky Victorian Tea Latte

This tea latte combines black tea and warm milk infused with smoky flavors, creating a velvety beverage with a creamy texture and a dark amber color. The preparation involves steeping the tea and gently steaming the milk, resulting in a soothing, aromatic drink with a smooth, frothy surface.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: Victorian
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 wtsp loose black tea leaves or 1 tea bag
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
  • a tiny pinch smoked cinnamon or smoked paprika (optional, for smokiness)
  • to taste honey or sweetener

Equipment

  • Kettle or pot for boiling water
  • Tea infuser or teapot
  • Small saucepan
  • Frothing wand or whisk
  • Mug

Method
 

  1. Open the tea infuser or place the loose black tea leaves into a teapot, then pour the boiling water over. Steep for 3-5 minutes until the tea develops a deep, dark color and rich aroma. Remove the infuser or strain out the tea leaves, and set the brewed tea aside. Add the cinnamon stick to the water (or milk) and gently simmer for 2–3 minutes to release its aroma.
  2. Pour the milk into a small saucepan and add smoked paprika or lapsang souchong tea leaves if using for an intensified smoky flavor. Heat over medium heat until just steaming and small bubbles form around the edges, avoid boiling. Once steaming, remove from heat.
  3. Froth the warmed milk using a frothing wand or whisk until it becomes frothy and slightly doubled in volume. Aim for a smooth, creamy foam with visible bubbles on top.
  4. Combine the brewed black tea with the sweetener of your choice in the mug. Pour the steamed and frothed milk over the tea, holding back the foam with a spoon if needed, then spoon the frothy layer on top. The mixture should have a warm, inviting color with a frothy crown.
  5. Garnish with a light dusting of smoked paprika or a drizzle of honey if desired. Serve immediately, allowing the aroma of smoky tea and rich milk to be appreciated with each sip.

Notes

For an extra smoky flavor, infuse the milk with lapsang souchong tea leaves during heating. Adjust sweetness to taste to enhance the creamy balance.