Homemade Vanilla Chai Mix

 

December is officially here.  Jake was outside this morning in the middle of a snowstorm putting Christmas lights up on the house.  Not with his feet planted safely on the ground or on a little step ladder.  He was at the top of the second story on a shaky, slippery metal deathtrap.  At one point he was hanging over our driveway, around 30 feet from the ground below.  Anything to bring the festive spirit, right?  Especially with an excitable toddler.  Funny thing is, when it was all said and done, she gave a "Wow, that's nice..." response.  And one of the light strings doesn't work.  Awww, honey.  Merry Christmas anyway!

The other thing about December is that you have to give random little gifts to lots of people: coworkers, neighbors, etc.  And it's so hard to figure out what to give because a candle is cliche, but a real gift could be inappropriate or awkward.  Last year I gave some people homemade vanilla extract and others peppermint hot chocolate mix.  Always some candy or cookies thrown in there.  It works, it's easy, and I get to eat the leftovers :)  This year, I'm adding a new player to the mix, and I love it.  I'm not usually into hot drinks, but Chai is one of the hot teas I really like.  It's especially good when flavored with vanilla or with salted caramel.  This mix is ridiculously easy to make (you don't need to dirty a single bowl!), and is also really easy for the receiver to prepare.  Just combine it with hot milk and you're on your way to holiday bliss.

Vanilla Chai Latte Mix

1 cup non fat dry milk 1 cup powdered non dairy creamer 1 cup french vanilla non dairy creamer 1 cup sugar 1 cup unsweetened instant tea 2 tsp ground ginger 2 tsp cinnamon powder 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg 1/2 tsp cardamom 1 tsp all spice powder 1/4 tsp salt

Put all of the ingredients into a blender, and blend until the mix turns into a fine powder.

Store in an airtight container and use as required.

To prepare the vanilla chai, mix 1 cup of hot milk with 1/4 cup of the mix.  Enjoy!

Source: Slightly adapted from Veg Inspirations