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Cozy Slow Cooker Pumpkin Chai Latte – Easy Copycat Recipe

slow cooker pumpkin chai latte - featured image

This cozy slow cooker pumpkin chai latte is a warm, creamy, and spiced drink that tastes better than any coffee shop version. Made with simple pantry ingredients and a slow cooker, it’s the perfect fall ritual for gatherings or quiet nights in.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups whole milk (or any milk you prefer)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 6 chai tea bags
  • 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of ground cloves (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Whipped cream (for serving, optional)
  • Extra pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon (for dusting, optional)
  • Caramel drizzle (for serving, optional)

Instructions

  1. Combine the milk and cream: Pour the 4 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream into your slow cooker. Whisk gently to combine.
  2. Add the pumpkin puree: Spoon in the 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree. Whisk vigorously until fully incorporated and smooth.
  3. Stir in the sugars and vanilla: Add the 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract. Whisk until mostly dissolved.
  4. Add the spices: Sprinkle in the 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, a pinch of ground cloves (if using), and a pinch of salt. Whisk until evenly distributed.
  5. Add the chai tea bags: Submerge the 6 chai tea bags into the liquid, ensuring they are fully covered. Tie strings together or drape over the edge for easy removal.
  6. Cook on low: Cover the slow cooker and set to LOW. Cook for 2 to 3 hours. Stir gently after 1 hour.
  7. Remove the tea bags: After 2 to 3 hours, carefully remove the chai tea bags, squeezing out any excess liquid.
  8. Whisk again: Give the latte a final whisk to reincorporate any separated cream.
  9. Taste and adjust: Ladle a small amount into a mug and taste. Adjust sweetness or spice as desired.
  10. Serve immediately: Ladle into mugs, top with whipped cream if desired, and dust with extra cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice. Serve hot.

Notes

Don’t rush the steep time; low and slow is key for full flavor. Whisk pumpkin thoroughly to avoid graininess. Strain if you prefer a silky texture. Make ahead for parties; flavors deepen overnight. Avoid boiling the milk. For a dairy-free version, use full-fat oat milk and coconut cream.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin chai latte, slow cooker latte, copycat Starbucks, fall drink, cozy drink, pumpkin spice, chai tea, slow cooker recipe