Slow Cooker Chai

Ingredients

• 6 cups water
• 10 black tea bags (or 2 tablespoons loose black tea in a tea infuser)
• 1 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 1/3 cup honey or sugar (adjust to taste)
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 8-10 whole cloves
• 8-10 whole cardamom pods, slightly crushed
• 2 whole star anise (optional)
• 1 inch fresh ginger, thinly sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
   • In a slow cooker, add water, tea bags, cinnamon sticks, cloves, cardamom, star anise, ginger, and black peppercorns.
2. Slow Cook
   • Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours. The longer you cook, the stronger the flavors will be.
3. Add Milk and Sweetener
   • After 2-3 hours, add milk, heavy cream (if using), and honey or sugar. Stir to combine.
   • Cover and cook for another 30 minutes on low, allowing the milk to heat through and flavors to meld.
4. Add Vanilla (Optional) and Strain
   • Stir in the vanilla extract, if desired, for a hint of extra flavor.
   • Remove the tea bags and strain out the spices if you prefer a smoother chai.
5. Serve
   • Ladle the chai into mugs and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a star anise, if desired.