Name: Slow Cooker Chai Tea Latte: A Cozy, Homemade Comfort Drink
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-488498H20M20S
Total time: PT-488498H20M20S
Cuisine: Indian-Inspired
Ingredients: 6 cups water; 6 black tea bags; 2 cinnamon sticks; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 teaspoon ground cardamom; 5 whole cloves; 2 star anise (optional); 1/3 cup brown sugar (adjust to taste); 4 cups milk (whole, almond, oat, or your choice); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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This Slow Cooker Chai Tea Latte is the ultimate comfort drink—warm, spiced, creamy, and perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings. Using a slow cooker allows the tea and spices to infuse deeply, creating a café-style latte right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless preparation—just add everything to the slow cooker and let it steep.
Infused with warming spices like cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves.
Easily customizable with your choice of milk and sweetness level.
Perfect for making large batches for family or guests.
A budget-friendly alternative to coffee shop chai lattes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

6 cups water
6 black tea bags
2 cinnamon sticks
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cardamom
5 whole cloves
2 star anise (optional)
⅓ cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)
4 cups milk (whole, almond, oat, or your choice)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Prepare the spices and tea
- In a slow cooker, combine water, tea bags, cinnamon sticks, ginger, cardamom, cloves, and star anise. Stir gently.
Steep the tea
- Set slow cooker to low and steep for 2–3 hours to let the spices infuse.
Sweeten and add milk
- Remove tea bags, then stir in brown sugar until dissolved. Add milk slowly and stir to combine.
Cook again
- Continue cooking on low for 1–2 more hours, allowing flavors to meld.
Add vanilla
- Stir in vanilla extract just before serving.
Serve
- Ladle into mugs and serve warm. Garnish with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6–8 mugs
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 3–5 hours
Total time: 3 hours 5 minutes to 5 hours 5 minutes

Variations

Use honey, maple syrup, or agave instead of brown sugar.
Try green tea bags instead of black tea for a lighter flavor.
Add black peppercorns for extra spiciness.
Use coconut milk for a richer, creamier texture.
Serve iced by letting the latte cool, then pouring over ice.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring before serving.
Do not freeze, as milk may separate.

FAQs

Can I make this chai tea latte caffeine-free?

Yes, use decaf black tea bags or rooibos tea as a substitute.

Can I use ground spices instead of whole ones?

Yes, but whole spices provide a smoother flavor. If using ground spices, strain well before serving.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely, just scale up the ingredients and use a larger slow cooker.

What type of milk works best?

Whole milk gives a creamy texture, but almond, oat, or soy milk work well too.

Do I have to use a slow cooker?

No, you can make this on the stovetop by simmering on low for 30–40 minutes.

How sweet should it be?

Adjust to your taste—start with ⅓ cup brown sugar and add more if desired.

Can I store leftovers with the milk already mixed in?

Yes, but consume within 3 days for best taste.

What toppings go well with chai tea latte?

Whipped cream, cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a drizzle of caramel.

Can I serve this cold?

Yes, chill and serve over ice for an iced chai latte.

Why add vanilla at the end?

Vanilla enhances the flavor and aroma—adding it at the end keeps it fresh and smooth.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Chai Tea Latte is a comforting, spiced drink that’s perfect for cozy nights, holiday gatherings, or simply treating yourself. With its rich blend of tea, milk, and warming spices, it’s a homemade café experience that will keep you coming back for more.

Molly

Slow Cooker Chai Tea Latte: A Cozy, Homemade Comfort Drink