Creating your homemade Christmas chai latte is simple if you follow these easy-to-follow steps:

1. Boil Water: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
2. Add Spices: Once the water is boiling, add the cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods, cloves, and grated ginger.
3. Simmer: Reduce the heat and let the spices simmer in the water for about 10 minutes. This process will enhance the flavors.
4. Add Tea: After 10 minutes, add the black tea bags to the spice mixture and continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Remove Tea Bags: Remove the tea bags, and strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove the spices.
6. Add Milk: Return the strained liquid to the saucepan and add the milk. Heat until warm, but do not bring to a boil.
7. Sweeten Up: Stir in honey or sugar according to your taste preference.
8. Add Vanilla: Mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of nutmeg if desired for extra flavor.
9. Serve: Pour into mugs and garnish with cinnamon sticks or whipped cream if you’d like.

By following these instructions, your homemade Christmas chai latte will be ready to uplift your holiday mood!