Is Masala Tea High in Caffeine? A Comprehensive Guide

November 12, 2025 •

3 min read

An 8-ounce cup of traditional masala tea typically contains about 25-50 milligrams of caffeine, making it a medium-caffeine beverage. This amount, however, is influenced by several factors and is significantly less than a standard cup of coffee, debunking the myth that masala tea is high in caffeine.

Quick Summary

This guide details the caffeine content of masala tea, comparing it to other common drinks like coffee and pure black tea. It explores the factors, such as brewing time and tea type, that affect caffeine levels. Information on decaffeinated alternatives and overall caffeine management is also provided.

Key Points

Moderate Caffeine: Masala tea contains a moderate amount of caffeine, typically 25-50mg per 8oz cup, derived from its black tea base.
Less Than Coffee: The caffeine content in masala tea is significantly lower than that of an average cup of coffee.
Spices are Caffeine-Free: The signature spices in masala tea, such as ginger and cardamom, do not contribute any caffeine.
Brewing Matters: You can adjust the caffeine level by controlling factors like brewing time, water temperature, and tea type.
Gentler Energy: The caffeine in tea is absorbed more slowly than in coffee, leading to a smoother energy boost without the crash.
Caffeine-Free Options: You can make a delicious, spicy chai using naturally caffeine-free herbal bases like rooibos.

Understanding the Caffeine Content of Masala Tea

Traditional masala tea, or masala chai, has gained worldwide popularity for its fragrant blend of spices and comforting flavor. However, for many, the key question remains: is masala tea high in caffeine? The simple answer is no, it's not. The caffeine comes primarily from its black tea base, but the amount is notably lower than in a typical cup of coffee. The final caffeine level is far from fixed and is influenced by a range of variables, from the tea leaves themselves to your brewing method.

Where Does the Caffeine in Masala Tea Come From?

The caffeine in masala tea originates solely from its tea base, not from the aromatic spices that define its flavor. The traditional recipe calls for black tea, which naturally contains caffeine. Other potential tea bases, such as green or oolong, also contribute caffeine but in varying amounts. The blend of spices, which often includes cardamom, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper, is entirely caffeine-free. The misconception that the tea is high in caffeine likely stems from its robust flavor and stimulating spices.

Factors That Influence Caffeine Levels

Several key factors directly impact the amount of caffeine extracted into your cup of masala tea. Adjusting these elements allows you to customize your beverage to your preferred caffeine kick.

Type of tea base: The type of tea leaves used is the most significant factor. Black tea provides the most caffeine, followed by green tea. Herbal blends, such as rooibos, contain no caffeine at all.
Brewing time: The longer the tea leaves steep, the more caffeine is released into the water. To reduce caffeine, steep for a shorter duration; for a stronger brew, steep longer.
Water temperature: Hotter water extracts more caffeine from the leaves more effectively than cooler water. Using near-boiling water will result in a more caffeinated brew.
Tea leaf size: The size and grade of the tea leaves matter. Smaller, broken leaves found in most tea bags release caffeine more quickly than larger, whole leaves.
Concentrates vs. freshly brewed: Chai tea concentrates, often used in coffee shops, are pre-brewed and can have varying caffeine levels depending on the brand. Freshly brewed tea gives you more control over the final content.

Masala Tea vs. Other Popular Caffeinated Drinks

For those comparing their morning brew options, here's a side-by-side look at the typical caffeine content. These figures are for an 8-ounce (240ml) serving and can vary based on preparation.


Beverage	Typical Caffeine Content (mg)	Notes
Coffee (brewed)	95-165	Significantly higher than masala tea.
Masala Tea (with black tea)	25-50	A milder and more gradual energy boost.
Pure Black Tea	~47	On par or slightly higher than an average cup of masala tea.
Green Tea	35-45	Generally less caffeinated than black tea based masala tea.
Espresso Shot (1 oz)	~64	Very high concentration in a small serving.

Managing Your Caffeine Intake with Masala Tea

For individuals sensitive to caffeine, masala tea offers several ways to enjoy its flavor without the strong stimulating effects. Consider these options:

Opt for decaf versions: Many brands offer decaffeinated black tea varieties. Using a decaf black tea base for your masala tea recipe will provide the taste without the caffeine.
Switch to herbal bases: For a completely caffeine-free option, use an herbal tea like rooibos as the base. Rooibos chai is a popular alternative that still provides a rich flavor profile.
Adjust brewing habits: Experiment with a shorter steeping time or lower water temperature to reduce the amount of caffeine extracted from the leaves.
Dilute your concentrate: If using a commercial chai concentrate, diluting it with more milk or water will lower the caffeine concentration per serving.

Conclusion

While masala tea is a caffeinated beverage due to its black tea foundation, it is not considered high in caffeine, especially when compared to coffee. The caffeine it contains typically provides a more sustained and gentle energy boost, which many attribute to the presence of L-theanine and tannins in the tea. This slower absorption helps avoid the common jitters associated with coffee consumption. By understanding the factors that influence its caffeine content, you can easily control the strength of your brew, ensuring a delicious and satisfying experience every time you enjoy a cup. For those seeking even lower caffeine options, decaffeinated or herbal-based alternatives are widely available, allowing everyone to savor the unique, spicy taste of masala tea regardless of their caffeine sensitivity.

Learn more about the science behind caffeine absorption in tea at The Spruce Eats.

Frequently Asked Questions

An 8-ounce cup of masala tea contains about 25-50mg of caffeine, while a typical 8-ounce cup of brewed coffee has significantly more, ranging from 95-165mg.

No, the spices in masala tea—such as cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger—are naturally caffeine-free. The caffeine content is solely from the tea leaves used.

Yes, you can easily create a caffeine-free version by using a naturally caffeine-free herbal tea, such as rooibos, as the base instead of black tea.

Yes, steeping time is a major factor. The longer you steep the tea leaves, the more caffeine is extracted. A shorter steeping time will result in less caffeine.

The presence of L-theanine and tannins in tea causes the body to absorb caffeine more slowly. This results in a calmer, more sustained energy boost compared to the rapid spike and crash often associated with coffee.

A chai latte made with a concentrated syrup may have a different caffeine level than freshly brewed tea. However, concentrates can have varying amounts, and the addition of milk dilutes the overall caffeine concentration per serving.

Yes. Most of masala tea's health benefits come from its antioxidant-rich spices, like ginger and cinnamon, which boost immunity, aid digestion, and reduce inflammation. These benefits are present regardless of whether a caffeinated tea base is used.