A Crave-Worthy Chai Cocktail for Cozy Nights In

When the nights turn chilly, there’s nothing better than cozying up with Chris, the dogs, some delicious food, and a great cocktail. And this Chai Cocktail—with golden raisin-infused rum and homemade vanilla chai syrup—perfectly fits the bill.

The idea for this cocktail came from one of my favorite craft cocktail spots, Merchant in Madison, Wisconsin. During a visit a few years back, I saw a fall drink featuring golden raisin-infused rum and vanilla chai syrup, and I was sold. If you know me, you know my love for all things chai runs deep, so a chai-spiced cocktail? That’s a match made in cozy heaven.

this Recipe for Later!

This chai rum cocktail starts with golden raisin-infused rum, which couldn’t be easier to make! The golden rum’s warm, caramel notes soak up the sweetness of the raisins, blending perfectly with the cozy spices of the homemade vanilla chai simple syrup.

The result is an elegant, balanced, and delicious cocktail that is perfectly festive for a winter gathering with friends – or perfectly cozy for a date night at home.

Maximum Flavor, Minimal Effort 

3 foolproof secrets to low-fuss, flavor-packed dinners, learned from years working in restaurants.

How to Make Chai Cocktails with Golden Raisin Rum

There are a couple of steps to making this chai cocktail, but don’t let that scare you off! It’s all super simple—you just need a few minutes to prep the infused rum and chai syrup. From there, you just mix, shake, and serve!

I can’t wait for you to try this Chai Cocktail! It’s cozy, elegant, and totally crave-worthy—the perfect recipe for a special night in.

If you do give them a try, be sure to let us know! Leave a comment with a star rating below. You can also snap a photo and tag @playswellwithbutter on Instagram. We LOVE hearing about and seeing your PWWB creations! ♡ Cheers!

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Chai Cocktail with Golden Raisin-Infused Rum and Vanilla Chai Simple Syrup

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• Author: Jess Larson
• Prep Time: 12 hours
• Cook Time: 10 min
• Total Time: 12 hours
• Yield: 1 1x

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Description

A chai cocktail with golden raisin-infused spiced rum and a homemade vanilla chai simple syrup, just as perfect for date night at home as it is for celebrating with friends and loved ones this holiday season.

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Ingredients

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for the golden raisin rum:

• 1 cup golden raisins
• 2 cups gold rum

for the vanilla chai simple syrup:

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 inch fresh ginger, peeled & sliced
• 1 vanilla bean, halved & seeds scraped
• 1 3″ stick of cinnamon
• 2 allspice berries
• 10 cloves
• 2 star anise

for the chai cocktail:

• 1.5 oz golden raisin-infused rum (above)
• 0.5 oz vanilla chai simple syrup (above)
• 0.5 oz fresh lime juice (juice of 1 lime)
• pinch of kosher salt
• nutmeg, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

for the golden raisin-infused rum:

1. Combine golden raisins and gold rum in sealable, air tight container, and allow them to sit together for 12-24 hours, until the raisins are plump and the rum is infused with the sweetness of the raisins.
2. Strain and store refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks.

for the vanilla chai simple syrup:

1. Combine water, brown sugar, ginger, vanilla, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and star anise in a heavy bottomed pot and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes. Cool.
2. Strain and store refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks.

for the chai cocktail:

1. Combine golden raisin rum, vanilla chai simple syrup, lime juice, and kosher salt in a shaker with ice.
2. Shake vigorously for about 30 seconds.
3. Strain and top with fresh grated nutmeg (optional, but encouraged).
4. Cheers!

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Notes

Storage

• Storage: Vanilla Chai Simple Syrup will keep, stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, for 2 weeks.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1