Strawberry Horchata Chai Review: Taste, Recipe, and More

Strawberry Horchata Chai is a delicious mix of chai spices, creamy horchata, and sweet strawberry syrup. This drink is unique because of its warm and fruity flavors that feel both refreshing and comforting. Whether you like your drinks iced or hot, this one offers something special.

Stick around to find out why it’s so loved and how to make it your own.

Table of Contents

Key Points

Strawberry Horchata Chai combines chai tea, horchata, and strawberry syrup.
It’s a perfect mix of warm spices, creamy texture, and fruity sweetness.
You can customize it with non-dairy milk or adjust the sweetness.
It contains caffeine if made with a chai tea base.
The strawberry syrup adds a unique, fruity twist.
Dutch Bros and Starbucks offer customizable versions of this drink.
It’s easy to recreate at home with simple ingredients like chai tea and strawberry syrup.

Strawberry Horchata Chai Review: Is it Worth Trying?

I’ve tried Strawberry Horchata Chai, and it’s honestly a drink worth tasting. It’s sweet, creamy, and has this nice mix of fruity and spiced flavors. If you like chai and want something fresh and unique, this one is a must-try. It’s fun, tasty, and definitely feels like a treat.

First Impressions

When I first saw it, the drink looked so pretty. The light pink color grabbed my attention right away. There were tiny specks of chai spices floating around, which made it look fancy. Some versions had whipped cream or even slices of strawberry on top. It looked so inviting.

Then I smelled it. Wow! I could pick up on the warm chai spices like cinnamon and cardamom. The sweet strawberry scent mixed in perfectly. It didn’t smell too strong, just fresh and creamy. The horchata added this soft, milky scent that tied everything together.

Honestly, even before tasting it, I could tell it was going to be good. It looked special, like the kind of drink that makes you stop and enjoy the moment.

Flavor Profile

The taste surprised me in the best way. The strawberries tasted fresh and real, not fake or overly sweet. It reminded me of biting into a ripe strawberry on a summer day. That sweetness was just enough without being too much.

The horchata gave it a creamy, smooth base. It tasted a little like rice pudding but lighter. Then came the chai spices. I could really taste the cinnamon and cardamom, and they added a warm, comforting kick. But they didn’t overpower the strawberry flavor. Everything felt balanced.

What I loved most was how the flavors worked together. The sweet strawberry, creamy horchata, and spiced chai each stood out but also blended perfectly. It felt like drinking something creative and special. Every sip made me want more.

Texture

The texture was amazing. It felt so smooth and creamy, but not heavy. When I took a sip, it slid easily and felt almost silky. There were no gritty bits or chunks from the spices or rice, which I loved.

It wasn’t too thick, like a milkshake, but also not watery like plain tea. It was just the right consistency. I tried it cold first, and it was super refreshing. Later, I had it warm, and that was cozy and relaxing. Both ways were great, but I think I liked the cold version a little more.

The texture really made the drink easy to enjoy. It was light enough for a hot day but creamy enough to feel like a treat.

Sweetness

This drink gets the sweetness just right. It’s not too sugary, which I appreciated. The sweetness mostly comes from the strawberries, so it feels natural and fresh. That makes it light and enjoyable, not overwhelming.

If you like sweeter drinks, you could easily add some sugar or honey to it. But honestly, I thought it was perfect as it was. The natural sweetness lets the other flavors, like the spices and creaminess, shine.

Presentation

This drink is beautiful. If you get it at a café, it usually comes in a clear cup so you can see the light pink color. The tiny flecks of chai spices floating around make it look fancy.

Some cafés add whipped cream, a slice of strawberry, or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. It’s the kind of drink you want to take a picture of before drinking.

When I made it at home, it was still easy to make it look nice. I poured it into a clear glass, added some ice, and sprinkled a little cinnamon on top. Even without all the extra toppings, the pink color itself makes it feel special.

The way this drink looks adds to the whole experience. It’s not just about the taste—it’s about how it makes you feel when you hold it.

Drinkability

This is one of the easiest drinks to enjoy. It’s light and refreshing when served cold. The strawberry flavor pops more in the chilled version. On the other hand, the warm version feels cozy and comforting. It’s perfect for those chilly days when you want something soothing.

The best part? It doesn’t leave you feeling too full or heavy. I could drink the whole glass and still feel good. It’s light enough to have anytime, but it still feels like a treat.

I found myself craving it again after I finished my first glass. That’s how you know a drink is good—it leaves you wanting more.

Value

I think this drink is totally worth it. If you buy it at a café, it’s usually priced like other fancy drinks. But the flavor and experience make it feel worth the cost. Plus, they often give you a decent portion, so you don’t feel shortchanged.

Making it at home is even better. The ingredients are simple—strawberries, milk, rice, and spices. You probably already have most of them in your kitchen.

Whether you buy it or make it yourself, it feels like a premium drink without breaking the bank. For me, it’s something I’d happily make or order again and again.

If you’re a fan of strawberry-flavored drinks, check out my review and recipe for Fiery Strawberry—it’s a bold and unique option.

Who Makes Strawberry Horchata Chai?

Strawberry Horchata Chai is made by creative cafés, specialty tea shops, and sometimes packaged by niche drink brands. It’s also a trendy recipe made by people at home who love experimenting with flavors. You can find it at artisan drink spots or try making your own with simple ingredients.

How to Prepare Strawberry Horchata Chai at Home?

To make Strawberry Horchata Chai at home, all you need are a few simple ingredients: strawberries, chai tea, milk, rice, sugar, and some spices. Blend the strawberries, brew the tea, and mix it with creamy horchata. Add sugar if you like it sweeter, and serve it hot or cold.

Step 1: Get All Your Ingredients Ready

The first thing you need to do is gather everything. Here’s what you’ll need:

Fresh strawberries (about a cup)
Chai tea bags (or loose chai tea)
Milk (regular or non-dairy like almond or oat)
Rice (white rice works best)
Sugar (to taste)
Spices like cinnamon and cardamom
Water and ice if you want it cold.

Important Point: Make sure your strawberries are fresh. If you don’t have fresh ones, frozen ones will work, but fresh ones taste better. For the rice, any basic white rice will do.

Having everything ready makes the whole process smoother. You won’t be running around looking for things halfway through. It’s like prepping for a fun little project in the kitchen.

Step 2: Brew Your Chai Tea

Start by making the chai tea. Heat about a cup of water in a pot. Once it starts boiling, toss in two chai tea bags or a tablespoon of loose chai tea. Let it simmer for five minutes so all the spices like cinnamon and cardamom can release their flavors.

If you like a strong chai flavor, leave it a bit longer. But don’t let it sit too long, or it might taste bitter. Once it’s done, take out the tea bags or strain it. Let the tea cool down to room temperature while you work on the other steps.

This step gives the drink that warm, spicy kick that makes it unique. It’s easy, but it’s an important part of the recipe.

Step 3: Make the Horchata Base

Horchata might sound fancy, but it’s super simple to make. Take a cup of white rice and soak it in two cups of water for a few hours.

After soaking, blend the rice with its water until it’s smooth. Strain to get rid of any rice bits. Now mix this rice water with these things:

A cup of milk
A tablespoon of sugar
A pinch of cinnamon.

Stir them well.

If you want it creamier, add a splash of condensed milk. It makes the horchata taste rich and sweet. Once it’s ready, pop it in the fridge to chill while you move to the next step.

Step 4: Blend the Strawberries

Now it’s time to work on the strawberries. Wash them well and cut off the green tops. Toss about a cup of them into a blender. Add a little sugar—about a tablespoon—to bring out their sweetness. You can add a splash of the horchata base to make blending easier.

Blend it until the strawberries are completely smooth. If you don’t like seeds in your drink, you can strain the mixture. Personally, I leave the seeds in—they’re so tiny that they don’t bother me.

This step is quick, but it’s what gives the drink that fresh and fruity flavor. The strawberry mix will make your kitchen smell amazing too!

Step 5: Mix Everything Together

Now comes the fun part. Take your brewed chai tea, horchata base, and blended strawberries. Combine them all in a big pitcher or bowl. Stir it well so the flavors blend evenly. Taste it and see if you want to add more sugar or cinnamon.

If you’re serving it cold, pour it over ice. If you want it warm, heat it gently on the stove. Don’t let it boil, or it might lose its creamy texture.

This step brings everything together. It’s where the magic happens. Mixing the fruity, creamy, and spiced parts makes the drink taste balanced and delicious.

Step 6: Serve and Add Toppings

Pour your drink. If it’s cold, add a few ice cubes. For a fancy touch, top it with whipped cream or a slice of strawberry. If you’re serving it warm, a pinch of cinnamon or a swirl of cream makes it feel extra cozy.

Toppings aren’t necessary, but they make the drink look even more special.

Once it’s ready, sip and enjoy. You’ve made your own Strawberry Horchata Chai. It’s delicious, refreshing, and feels like a little treat you made just for yourself.

Looking for more strawberry drink ideas? Check out my complete experience with Dole Strawberry Lemonade.

What are the Benefits of Drinking Strawberry Horchata Chai?

Strawberry Horchata Chai is not just tasty, it’s full of benefits. It’s hydrating, packed with nutrients like Vitamin C, and has soothing chai spices. Plus, it’s customizable and can even help you relax. Whether warm or cold, this drink is a treat that’s good for your body too.

1. It’s Packed with Antioxidants

Strawberries are loaded with antioxidants. These are like little warriors that fight off things in your body that cause damage. They help with everything from keeping your skin healthy to fighting off sickness. It’s an easy way to give your body some extra protection.

The chai spices help too. Cinnamon is especially good at calming inflammation. This means it can reduce redness or swelling in your body. Cardamom is great for your tummy. It helps your digestion work smoothly. Together, these ingredients make the drink healthy without even trying.

What I love is that you don’t feel like you’re “being healthy.” You’re just enjoying something delicious. The fact that it’s good for you feels like a bonus. Every sip is tasty and secretly good for your body.

2. It’s Super Hydrating

This drink isn’t just tasty—it keeps you hydrated too. The horchata base is made with water and milk (or non-dairy milk). Both are great for giving your body the fluids it needs. Add the strawberries, and it feels even more refreshing.

I love how light this drink feels, especially when served cold. If you don’t like drinking plain water, this is such a fun way to stay hydrated. The fruity flavor makes it way more interesting than just milk or tea on its own.

On a hot day, it’s perfect for cooling down. On a cooler day, the warm version gives you hydration and warmth at the same time. It’s a drink that works no matter the weather or mood.

3. It Gives You Vitamins Your Body Needs

Strawberries have Vitamin C, and that’s amazing for your immune system. This means you’re less likely to catch a cold or get sick. If you feel tired or run down, this drink can give you a little boost.

The chai spices also bring their own benefits. Cinnamon can help balance your blood sugar, which is great if you’re watching what you eat. Cardamom helps with digestion, making the drink gentle on your stomach. Even the rice in horchata adds a little energy because it’s full of natural carbs.

This drink is like a mix of tasty and helpful. You’re not just enjoying the flavor—you’re giving your body things it actually needs. That makes it even better to sip on.

4. It’s Relaxing and Cozy

The chai spices in this drink make it so relaxing. Cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves have a warm, soothing flavor that feels like a hug in a cup. If you’re having a tough day, this drink can help you unwind and feel calmer.

Even making it can feel like self-care. Brewing the chai tea, blending the strawberries, and mixing everything together takes just a few steps. But those little steps make you slow down and enjoy the process. When you sit down with your drink, it feels like a reward.

Drinking it warm is especially comforting. It’s like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket, even if it’s just through a cup. That’s why it’s not just about the taste. It’s how it makes you feel while you’re drinking it.

5. You Can Make It Exactly How You Like

One of my favorite things about this drink is how flexible it is. Don’t like dairy? No problem—use almond or oat milk instead. Want it less sweet? Skip the sugar. Love the spiciness of chai? Add more cinnamon or cardamom. You can adjust everything to fit your taste.

This makes it perfect for anyone. If you have dietary needs, it’s easy to make the drink work for you. Even if you just want to try something new, you can experiment with the recipe until it’s just right.

It’s fun to play around with the ingredients and make it your own. That’s what makes it more than just a drink—it’s something personal that feels like it was made just for you.

Are There Any Downsides to Strawberry Horchata Chai?

While Strawberry Horchata Chai is a great drink, it’s not perfect. It can be high in sugar if you add too much. The creamy texture might feel heavy for some people. Plus, it has caffeine from the chai tea, which isn’t great if you’re sensitive to it.

1. It Can Be Too Sweet

If you add too much sugar, this drink can get really sweet. Sweetened condensed milk, ripe strawberries, and even honey can all pile on the sugar quickly. While it tastes amazing, it’s not the best for your health if you drink it too often.

The good news is you can control the sweetness. Use fresh strawberries and skip the extra sugar. If you like a little sweetness, try using just a small drizzle of honey. That way, you still get a treat without overdoing it.

It’s all about balance. The drink is delicious, but it’s easy to adjust it so you don’t go overboard on the sugar.

2. The Creamy Texture Isn’t for Everyone

Horchata is creamy, which I love, but it’s not everyone’s thing. If you’re not into rich, thick drinks, this one might feel a little too heavy, especially if you use whole milk or add condensed milk.

If you want something lighter, there are easy fixes. Use almond or oat milk in the strawberry horchata chai recipe. You can also serve it over ice to make it feel less rich. Even adding a little more chai tea to the mix can help lighten it up.

This drink is super flexible, so you can make it work for you. If the creamy texture feels too much, try one of these tweaks.

3. It Might Trigger Allergies

This drink is made with strawberries, milk, and chai spices. Any of these can be a problem if you have allergies. Strawberries are a common allergen, and some people can’t handle dairy or certain spices.

If you have allergies, it’s easy to customize the recipe. Use a different fruit, like raspberries or blueberries. Swap regular milk for a non-dairy option. You can even skip or reduce the spices if they bother you. The drink will still taste amazing.

Always be cautious if you’re trying this for the first time. Make sure you know how your body reacts to the ingredients before enjoying a full cup.

4. The Caffeine in Chai Can Be an Issue

Chai tea has caffeine, which isn’t great if you’re sensitive to it. Drinking too much might make you feel jittery, or it could keep you awake if you have it late in the day.

The fix is simple. Use decaf chai tea, or just skip the tea altogether. The spices alone will give you that warm chai flavor without the caffeine. This way, you can still enjoy the drink, no matter your caffeine tolerance.

Strawberry Horchata Chai Dutch Bros Review

The Strawberry Horchata Chai at Dutch Bros is one of those drinks that instantly catches your attention. It combines the spicy, warming flavors of chai with the creamy sweetness of horchata and a fruity strawberry twist. It’s unique, fun, and honestly, really tasty.

When I tried it, the balance of flavors surprised me. The chai spices, like cinnamon and cardamom, add a cozy kick. The horchata makes it smooth and creamy, while the strawberry syrup brightens it up with just the right amount of sweetness. It’s like dessert and a cozy tea in one cup.

What’s great is that you can order it hot or iced. The iced version is super refreshing on a warm day, and the hot one feels like a hug in a mug during colder weather. I liked that it wasn’t overly sweet or heavy, so I could enjoy the whole drink without feeling stuffed.

If you’re looking for something a little different, this drink is worth a try. It’s fun, flavorful, and a nice break from the usual coffee or tea. Whether you’re a chai lover or just want to try something new, it’s a solid choice.

Strawberry Horchata Chai Dutch Bros Ingredients

The Strawberry Horchata Chai is made with a few simple but tasty ingredients. First, there’s the chai tea. This is what gives the drink its signature spicy flavor. It’s full of cinnamon, cardamom, and other warm spices.

Next comes the horchata flavor. Traditional horchata is made with rice, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla. Dutch Bros recreates this by adding syrups and milk to make it smooth, creamy, and lightly sweet.

The star of the show is the strawberry syrup. This gives the drink its fruity, fresh twist. It’s sweet but not overpowering, so it pairs nicely with the chai and horchata. Together, these three main ingredients create a drink that’s flavorful and balanced.

What’s great is you can customize it. Want it less sweet? Ask for less strawberry syrup. Prefer non-dairy? You can swap regular milk for almond, oat, or coconut milk. Dutch Bros is great at letting you tweak your order to match your taste.

This mix of ingredients makes the Strawberry Horchata Chai unique. It’s creamy, spicy, and fruity all in one. Plus, you can make it your own, which is always a win.

Strawberry Horchata Chai Dutch Bros Taste and Texture

The taste of the Strawberry Horchata Chai is amazing. It’s like having three drinks in one. First, you get the spicy flavors of chai. Cinnamon and cardamom are the stars here. They’re warm and bold, but not too strong.

Then, the horchata flavor kicks in. It’s creamy and sweet, with a hint of cinnamon and vanilla. Finally, the strawberry syrup adds a fruity, refreshing sweetness that ties everything together.

What I loved most was how balanced it felt. None of the flavors overpower each other. The chai, horchata, and strawberry all stand out, but they also blend perfectly. It’s sweet but not too sugary. The spices are bold but not overwhelming. The strawberry adds just the right amount of brightness to make it feel special.

The texture is smooth and silky. The horchata base makes it creamy, but it’s not thick like a milkshake. The iced version feels light and refreshing, perfect for a warm day. The hot version, on the other hand, is cozy and velvety. It’s great for when you want something comforting.

Overall, the taste and texture of this drink are spot on. It’s flavorful without being heavy. Whether you’re in the mood for something refreshing or comforting, this drink delivers.

Strawberry Horchata Chai Dutch Bros Calories

The calories in a Strawberry Horchata Chai depend on the size and ingredients. A small-sized drink usually has about 240 calories. Most of these calories come from the milk, horchata syrup, and strawberry syrup.

If you add toppings like whipped cream or extra syrup, the calories will be higher.

Here’s a simple breakdown. The chai concentrate adds flavor but not a lot of calories. The horchata flavoring and milk make it creamy and sweet, adding more to the calorie count. The strawberry syrup adds both sweetness and sugar, which is where a good chunk of the calories come from.

If you want to make it lighter, there are a few easy tweaks. You can ask for fewer pumps of strawberry syrup. This keeps the drink flavorful but lowers the sugar. Switching to almond or oat milk instead of regular milk can also help. These options are usually lower in calories but still creamy.

This drink is definitely a treat, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation. It’s a great choice for when you want something special. Knowing what’s in it helps you make it fit your diet or preferences without giving up the fun.

How to Order Strawberry Horchata Chai Dutch Bros

Ordering the Strawberry Horchata Chai is simple, even if it’s not on the menu. Start by asking for a chai latte. This will give you the spiced chai tea as the base. Then, ask the barista to add horchata flavoring. This makes the drink creamy and sweet, like traditional horchata.

Next, ask for strawberry syrup. This is what makes the drink fruity and unique. You can decide how much you want. If you like your drinks less sweet, ask for fewer pumps. If you want it extra fruity, go for more.

Decide if you want it hot or iced. The iced version is great for a sunny day, while the hot one feels cozy and warm. You can also choose your milk. Dutch Bros has options like almond, oat, or coconut milk if you’re avoiding dairy.

If it’s not listed at your Dutch Bros, just explain the combination. The baristas are usually super helpful and happy to make custom drinks. This drink is flexible, so you can tweak it to fit your mood or taste perfectly.

Is Dutch Bros Strawberry Horchata Chai Still Available?

Whether the Strawberry Horchata Chai is still available depends on your location. Some Dutch Bros stores have it on their menu regularly. Others may offer it as a secret menu item. It’s best to check with your local Dutch Bros to see if they still have it.

Even if it’s not officially on the menu, you can almost always order it by describing the ingredients. Ask for a chai latte with horchata flavoring and strawberry syrup. Most stores have the ingredients to make it, even if it’s not listed as a standard drink.

Dutch Bros changes their menu often to include seasonal and special drinks. If this one isn’t currently available, there’s always a chance it could come back as a limited-time offering.

To stay updated, follow Dutch Bros on social media or check their website. They usually announce new drinks and seasonal items there.

If you can’t find it, you can always try making a version at home. All you need is chai tea, horchata mix, and strawberry syrup. It’s not exactly the same, but it’s a fun way to enjoy a similar flavor.

The best way to know for sure is to ask your local Dutch Bros. The staff is usually friendly and happy to let you know what’s available or suggest something similar.

Does Strawberry Horchata Chai Have Caffeine?

Whether Strawberry Horchata Chai has caffeine depends on how it’s made, especially the tea used as the base.

Chai Tea Base: If the drink uses traditional chai, which is made with black tea, it will have caffeine. Black tea naturally contains caffeine, and the amount depends on how strong the chai concentrate is and the serving size.
Horchata Part: The horchata in the drink (made from rice, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla) doesn’t have caffeine. It adds creaminess and flavor without any energy boost.
Strawberry Flavoring: The strawberry syrup or flavor used for sweetness is caffeine-free. It’s there just to make the drink taste fruity.

In short, if the drink is made with a black tea chai base, it will have caffeine. If it’s made with a caffeine-free tea or an herbal option, it won’t. To know for sure, ask the coffee shop where you’re ordering it. They can tell you exactly what’s in your drink and how much caffeine it has.

Conclusion

Strawberry Horchata Chai is a drink worth trying for anyone who loves chai or wants to explore something new. Its mix of creamy, spiced, and fruity flavors makes it stand out. Here’s a quick summary of why it’s so special:

Combines chai spices, horchata creaminess, and strawberry sweetness.
Perfect for both hot and iced drink lovers.
Customizable to fit your taste or dietary needs.
Offers a balance of refreshing and comforting flavors.
Works great as a unique treat for any season.

Try Strawberry Horchata Chai now and treat yourself to something delicious.