How Much Caffeine Is in Assam Tea?
Assam black tea from northeast India is malty, robust, and higher in caffeine than most other Indian teas — 50-70 mg per 8 oz cup. It's the preferred base for masala chai precisely because it can stand up to milk and spices.
About 60 mg per cup — near coffee levels.
How it compares
Assam is the strongest caffeinated Indian tea. A cup plus milk still lands under a drip coffee, but two cups cross the line.
| Drink | Caffeine (mg) |
|---|---|
| Assam (8 oz) | 60 |
| Darjeeling (8 oz) | 45 |
| English Breakfast blend | 55 |
| Brewed drip coffee (8 oz) | 95 |
Our picks on Amazon
Bold, malty Assam black tea from Tata — one of India's largest tea producers. The perfect strong base for masala chai or a robust morning cup.
Authentic Indian masala chai from one of India's most beloved tea brands. Pre-blended with cardamom, ginger, cinnamon, and clove — just add milk and sweetener.
Frequently asked
Why is Assam the best base for chai?
Its malty, robust profile stands up to milk and spices without getting drowned out. Weaker teas (Darjeeling, green) get overwhelmed when you add masala.
Is Assam stronger in caffeine than English Breakfast?
Usually yes — English Breakfast is often a blend of Assam with Ceylon and Kenyan. Pure Assam typically clocks in 5-15 mg higher per cup than an English Breakfast blend.
Does adding milk reduce Assam's caffeine?
No — milk doesn't change total caffeine content. But it does slow absorption and soften the acid hit, which is why British-style Assam with milk feels gentler than a straight cup of equal strength.