Chai Cake Recipe

If you love the warm, spicy notes of chai tea, then you are absolutely going to fall head over heels for this Chai Cake. Picture a tender, moist cake infused with cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and a touch of pepper that creates a beautifully balanced flavor profile. The rich cream cheese frosting adds the perfect creamy contrast, turning every bite into a little celebration. This Chai Cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience that brings cozy afternoons and joyful gatherings together in one delicious slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Chai Cake is about finding the perfect harmony between spices, moisture, and sweetness. Each element is carefully chosen to build a moist texture, a fragrant aroma, and a taste that feels both exotic and familiar.

• Butter (180 g, room temperature): Adds richness and tenderness to the cake crumb.
• Granulated sugar (150 g): Balances sweetness and helps with aeration during mixing.
• Dark brown sugar (150 g): Brings depth and a hint of molasses flavor to the batter.
• Large eggs (4, room temperature): Provide structure and moisture, making the cake light yet sturdy.
• All-purpose flour (330 g): The foundation for the cake’s soft but sturdy texture.
• Cornstarch (1 tbsp): Helps keep the crumb tender and light.
• Ground cardamom (1 tbsp): Key chai spice that brings warm, sweet, and slightly floral notes.
• Ground cinnamon (1 tbsp): Adds comforting, sweet spice that evokes cozy memories.
• Ground ginger (1 1/2 tsp): Lends a bit of zing and warmth to the profile.
• Ground allspice (1/2 tsp): Adds complexity with its blend of clove, cinnamon, and nutmeg flavors.
• Ground nutmeg (1/2 tsp): Provides subtle earthiness and warmth.
• Ground black pepper (1/4 tsp): Just a hint to awaken and balance the sweet spices.
• Baking powder (3/4 tsp): Helps the cake rise evenly and stay fluffy.
• Baking soda (3/4 tsp): Works alongside baking powder for the perfect lift and texture.
• Salt (1/2 tsp): Enhances flavors and balances sweetness.
• Sour cream (240 g, room temperature): Adds moisture and a slight tang for richness.
• Vegetable oil (60 g): Keeps the cake moist and tender for days.
• Vanilla extract (1 1/2 tsp): Complements the chai spices beautifully and rounds out the flavor.
• Butter for frosting (200 g, room temperature): Gives the frosting a creamy, luxurious texture.
• Powdered sugar (280 g): Sweetens and smooths the cream cheese frosting.
• Additional dark brown sugar (30 g): Infuses the frosting with a caramel note that ties into the cake.
• Cream cheese (115 g, room temperature): Adds tang and richness to balance the sweetness of the frosting.
• Vanilla bean paste (1/2 tsp): Gives the frosting a gorgeous aroma and little flecks of vanilla.

How to Make Chai Cake

Step 1: Preparing Your Oven and Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 170ºC (340ºF) using a conventional setting. While it heats, line two 20 cm (8 inch) round baking pans with parchment paper to ensure your cake layers come out clean and smooth, making them easier to frost and assemble later.

Step 2: Sifting the Dry Ingredients

Sift together the flour, cornstarch, and all the warming chai spices: cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg, black pepper, along with the baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Sifting these ingredients not only mixes them evenly but also aerates the flour, which helps create a lighter cake texture.

Step 3: Creaming Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter along with both granulated and dark brown sugars on medium-high speed until the mixture is fluffy and pale, about three minutes. This step is essential because it incorporates air into the batter, which helps the cake rise beautifully.

Step 4: Adding the Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition so they fully combine with the butter and sugar base. This technique ensures a smooth batter and evenly distributes moisture and structure throughout the cake.

Step 5: Combining Dry Ingredients and Wet Additions

Scrape down the bowl sides, then add half of your dry ingredient mixture on low speed, mixing just until combined. Next, add sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract, blending gently to avoid overmixing—which could toughen the cake. Finally, add the remaining dry ingredients and mix again just until everything comes together.

Step 6: Folding the Batter

With a rubber spatula, fold the batter gently to ensure no pockets of dry ingredients remain and the batter is smooth and uniform. This step keeps the cake light and tender by preventing excess air loss.

Step 7: Baking the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and pop them into the oven. Bake for 28 to 30 minutes. The layers will be light in color and might not brown much, so rely on a cake tester or toothpick coming out clean before removing them to cool.

Step 8: Cooling Your Chai Cake

Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for about 5 minutes, then gently turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely before frosting. Cooling thoroughly is key to prevent the frosting from melting upon contact.

How to Serve Chai Cake

Garnishes

For a beautiful finish that complements the flavors inside, dust the cake with a pinch of ground cinnamon or adorn the top with whole star anise pods and cinnamon sticks. These garnishes not only add visual appeal but also enhance the chai aroma as you slice into the cake.

Side Dishes

This Chai Cake shines alongside a cup of chai tea or spiced coffee, perfectly echoing the cake’s spice blend. Consider serving it with lightly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a touch of creaminess that pairs beautifully with the fragrant spices.

Creative Ways to Present

Make your serving moment extra special by layering the cake with a swirl of cream cheese frosting visible on the outside for a “naked cake” effect. Alternatively, cut the cake into petite squares and dust with powdered sugar for a simple, elegant tea-time treat that’s easy to share.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once frosted, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container and refrigerate. The Chai Cake flavors actually deepen as it rests, and it will stay moist and delicious for 2 to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze unfrosted cake layers wrapped securely in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw the layers overnight in the fridge before frosting and assembling. This method is perfect for making your Chai Cake in advance for busy days or special occasions.

Reheating

Serve slices at room temperature to fully enjoy the intricate spices and creamy frosting. If you prefer a slightly warm slice, pop it in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds, but be careful not to overheat or the frosting can melt.

FAQs

Can I use all light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar?

Yes, you can substitute light brown sugar for dark brown, but the cake will be slightly less rich in molasses flavor. Dark brown sugar is recommended for the fullest chai flavor.

Is it necessary to use sour cream in the cake batter?

Sour cream contributes moisture and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness and spices. If unavailable, Greek yogurt is a good substitute with a similar effect.

Can I make this Chai Cake dairy-free?

You can try replacing the butter with a dairy-free margarine and using coconut yogurt in place of sour cream. For the frosting, a dairy-free cream cheese alternative works well, though the texture may vary slightly.

How do I prevent the cake from drying out?

Avoid overbaking and keep an eye on the cake starting at the 28-minute mark. Properly wrapping and storing it in the fridge also helps maintain moisture for days.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit to the batter?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans complement the chai spice beautifully, as do dried cranberries or raisins. Fold them in gently after you mix the batter to keep the texture balanced.

Final Thoughts

This Chai Cake is the kind of recipe that warms you from the inside out and invites you to savor every moment. With its comforting spice blend, moist crumb, and luscious cream cheese frosting, it’s a treat you’ll want to make again and again. So go ahead, tie on your apron and bring a little joyful magic to your kitchen with this irresistible Chai Cake.

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