Instant Pot Method:

Step 1: Prepare the Spices

• Turn on the Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” mode. Add the cinnamon sticks, crushed cardamom pods, cloves, ginger, nutmeg, allspice (if using), and black pepper. Toast the spices for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.

Step 2: Brew the Tea

• Add the water to the Instant Pot with the toasted spices. Stir well, then add the black tea bags or loose tea.
• Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode for 3 minutes. Ensure the valve is set to the sealing position.

Step 3: Release Pressure and Add Milk

• Once the cooking time is complete, carefully perform a quick release of the pressure by turning the valve to the venting position.
• Open the lid and remove the tea bags or strain the tea to remove loose leaves and whole spices.
• Switch the Instant Pot back to “Sauté” mode. Add the milk, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract (if using). Stir well and let the mixture heat through for 2-3 minutes, but do not bring it to a boil.

Step 4: Serve

• Turn off the Instant Pot. Pour the chai latte into mugs, straining out the spices as you pour. Serve hot and enjoy!

CROCKPOT:

Step 1: Prepare the Spices

Add the cinnamon sticks, crushed cardamom pods, cloves, ginger, nutmeg, allspice (if using), and black pepper to your crockpot. Set it to “Low” and let the spices warm up for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help release their aromas.

Step 2: Brew the Tea

Pour in the water and add the black tea bags or loose tea to the crockpot. Stir well to combine with the spices. Cover and let it steep on “Low” for about 1-2 hours.

Step 3: Add Milk and Sweetener

After the tea has steeped, remove the tea bags or strain out the loose tea and spices. Then, add the milk, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract (if using). Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Heat Through and Serve

Continue heating the mixture on “Low” for another 30 minutes to 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld together. Keep an eye on the temperature to ensure it doesn’t boil.

Once it’s warmed through, turn off the crockpot. Pour the chai latte into mugs, straining out any remaining spices as you serve. Enjoy hot!

Tips:

• For a frothy chai latte, use a milk frother or blend the milk before adding it to the tea.
• Adjust the sweetness and spice levels to your preference.
• To make it dairy-free, substitute the milk with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk.