Name: Irresistible Chai Cake with Creamy Spice Infusion
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 180 g Butter (Ensure it’s at room temperature); 150 g Granulated Sugar; 150 g Dark Brown Sugar; 4 large Eggs (Use room temperature); 330 g All-Purpose Flour; 1 tbsp Cornstarch; 1 tbsp Ground Cardamom; 1 tbsp Ground Cinnamon; 1.5 tsp Ground Ginger; 0.5 tsp Ground Allspice; 0.5 tsp Ground Nutmeg; 0.25 tsp Ground Black Pepper; 0.75 tsp Baking Powder; 0.75 tsp Baking Soda; 0.5 tsp Salt; 240 g Sour Cream (Can substitute with Greek yogurt 1:1); 60 g Vegetable Oil (Can use canola or another neutral oil); 1.5 tsp Vanilla Extract; 200 g Butter (Ensure it's softened); 280 g Powdered Sugar; 30 g Dark Brown Sugar; 115 g Full-Fat Cream Cheese; 0.5 tsp Vanilla Bean Paste

The delightful aroma of cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger wafting through my kitchen is my favorite part of making this Moist Chai Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting. As soon as I take a bite, I’m transported to a cozy café, with every layer whispering stories of warmth and comfort. This cake is not just a feast for the senses; it’s an embrace of spiced goodness that captures the essence of a steamy chai latte. And let me tell you, it’s a quick prep that’s perfect for any gathering! Whether you’re looking for a comforting dessert to enjoy on a chilly evening or a unique cake to impress your friends, this Chai Cake has got you covered. So, are you ready to dive into this irresistible recipe that celebrates the amazing flavors of chai?

Why Is This Chai Cake So Irresistible?

Warm, Inviting Aromas: The delightful scent of spices like cinnamon and cardamom will make your home feel welcoming and cozy.
Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you’ll create a dessert that looks and tastes like it took hours!
Comforting Flavor: Each bite is packed with warm chai-inspired spices, perfect for cool evenings or festive gatherings.
Impressive Presentation: The brown sugar cream cheese frosting adds a touch of elegance that will wow your guests, making it an ideal centerpiece for any gathering.
Versatile Delight: Whether you enjoy it as a post-dinner treat or a sweet afternoon snack with tea, this Chai Cake is sure to delight. For more tasty inspiration, check out our amazing Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake or dive into the rich flavors of Velvet Oreo Cheesecake.

Chai Cake Ingredients

• Get ready for a flavorful adventure!

For the Cake

Butter (180g) – Provides moisture and richness in the cake; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy blending.
Granulated Sugar (150g) – Adds sweetness and contributes to the cake’s texture.
Dark Brown Sugar (150g) – Enhances flavor with molasses undertones, adding depth to sweetness.
Eggs (4 large) – Essential for structure, moisture, and binding; use room temperature eggs for better incorporation.
All-Purpose Flour (330g) – The primary structural component of the cake.
Cornstarch (1 tbsp) – Lightens the flour, helping create a tender crumb.
Ground Cardamom (1 tbsp) – Provides the signature chai flavor, making this cake a true Chai Cake delight.
Ground Cinnamon (1 tbsp) – Adds warmth and spice.
Ground Ginger (1½ tsp) – Offers a slight bite and aromatic flavor.
Ground Allspice (½ tsp) – Complements other spices with a complex flavor.
Ground Nutmeg (½ tsp) – Adds warmth and richness.
Ground Black Pepper (¼ tsp) – Brings subtle heat, enhancing chai flavor.
Baking Powder (¾ tsp) – Leavening agent for the cake rise.
Baking Soda (¾ tsp) – Works with acidic components for leavening.
Salt (½ tsp) – Balances flavors and enhances sweetness.
Sour Cream (240g) – Adds moisture and richness; can substitute with Greek yogurt 1:1.
Vegetable Oil (60g) – Contributes to cake moisture; can use canola or another neutral oil.
Vanilla Extract (1½ tsp) – Enhances overall flavor.

For the Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

Butter (200g) – Provides creaminess and stability in frosting.
Powdered Sugar (280g) – Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
Dark Brown Sugar (30g) – Adds depth of flavor to the sweetness.
Full-Fat Cream Cheese (115g) – Provides a creamy texture and flavor contrast.
Vanilla Bean Paste (½ tsp) – Enhances the frosting flavor profile.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chai Cake

Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 170ºC (340ºF). While that warms up, prepare two 20 cm (8-inch) baking pans by lining them with parchment paper. Make sure the parchment paper fits snugly in the bottom and sides, which will help the cake layers release smoothly after baking.

Step 2: Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, ground cardamom, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground allspice, ground nutmeg, ground black pepper, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This combination of spices creates the signature flavor of the Chai Cake. Set this dry mixture aside for later use.

Step 3: Creaming Butter & Sugars
In a large bowl using a stand mixer or electric mixer, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and dark brown sugar on medium speed. Continue mixing for about 3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, ensuring a rich texture that will enhance your Chai Cake.

Step 4: Add Eggs
Now, add the eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. This gradual incorporation helps achieve a smooth batter. Ensure you mix until each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next—this will provide the added moisture and structure you desire.

Step 5: Combine Dry & Wet
Slowly add half of the dry mixture to the wet ingredients on low speed, mixing just until combined. Follow this by adding the sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract, mixing briefly until smooth. Finally, add the remaining dry ingredients and mix gently to avoid overmixing, which ensures your Chai Cake stays tender.

Step 6: Bake
Divide the cake batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for about 28-30 minutes, or until a cake tester comes out clean and the tops are lightly golden. Once done, let the cakes cool in the pans for 5 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Frosting Preparation
While your Chai Cake layers cool, prepare the brown sugar cream cheese frosting. Begin by sifting the powdered sugar into a mixing bowl. Cream together the softened butter, powdered sugar, and dark brown sugar on high speed for about 3 minutes until fluffy. Then add the vanilla bean paste and full-fat cream cheese, mixing on low speed for 1 minute to achieve a smooth consistency.

Step 8: Assemble Cake
Once the cake layers are completely cool, use a serrated knife to level the tops if necessary. Place one layer on your serving dish and spread an even layer of cream cheese frosting on top. Gently stack the second layer on top and apply a thin coat of frosting around the entire cake to create a crumb coat before decorating. Consider dusting with cinnamon for an elegant finish.

Expert Tips for Chai Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture in your Chai Cake.
Don’t Overmix: After adding the flour mixture, mix gently until just combined to keep the cake tender and avoid a dense texture.
Check for Doneness: Use a cake tester or toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean to confirm your cake is ready and avoid undercooking.
Chill Before Frosting: Allow cake layers to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting your delicious brown sugar cream cheese frosting.
Crumb Coat: Apply a thin layer of frosting around the cake before the final layer to seal in crumbs for a clean finish and a polished look.

How to Store and Freeze Chai Cake

Fridge: Store your Chai Cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Freezer: If you want to save some for later, wrap slices of Chai Cake tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months.

Reheating: For a cozy treat, reheat slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or warm in the oven at 150ºC (300ºF) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Frosting Tip: If you freeze the Chai Cake with frosting, place a layer of wax paper between the cake and the wrap to prevent the frosting from sticking.

What to Serve with Moist Chai Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

Escape into a world of delightful flavors with these perfect pairings that will elevate your Chai Cake experience.

Warm Spiced Chai: A wonderfully aromatic tea that echoes the flavors of the cake, enhancing the chai essence with each sip.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream beautifully contrasts the spices in the cake, creating an irresistible combination.
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a fresh and tart touch that balances the sweetness of the Chai Cake, refreshing the palate.
Coconut Macaroons: These chewy delights offer a fun texture variation and complement the warmth of the spices, adding a tropical twist.
Pumpkin Soup: A warm, creamy soup with hints of spice creates a cozy atmosphere, perfect as a starter before indulging in cake.
Coffee: A rich cup of coffee, whether black or with cream, enhances the chai flavors, making it a comfortingly familiar pair.
Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can offer a savory contrast to the sweet, spiced cake, making for a delightful nibble between cake bites.
Chocolate Fondue: Dipping pieces of cake into warm chocolate adds a luxurious touch, turning your dessert into an indulgent feast.
Spiced Almond Biscotti: Crunchy and nutty, these biscotti not only pair beautifully with coffee but also resonate with the spice themes in your Chai Cake.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing this Moist Chai Cake ahead of time is a game-changer for busy cooks! You can bake the cake layers up to 3 days in advance. Once cooled, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain moisture and freshness. The brown sugar cream cheese frosting can also be made up to 48 hours ahead; simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, allow both the cake and frosting to come to room temperature. Then, assemble and frost the cake as directed, ensuring a just-as-delicious presentation and flavor that will impress your guests!

Variations & Substitutions for Chai Cake

Tailor this delightful Chai Cake to your taste buds and dietary needs with these fun, flavorful tweaks!

Dairy-Free: Replace butter and cream cheese with coconut oil and vegan cream cheese for a plant-based twist.
Nutty Flavor Boost: Incorporate ground almonds or finely chopped walnuts into the batter for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra ground ginger for a spicy surprise that’ll warm you up!
Fruity Addition: Fold in chopped apples or pears for added moisture and a fruity element that pairs beautifully with the spices.
Reduced Sugar: Cut down on granulated and brown sugar by 25% without sacrificing flavor; use unsweetened applesauce for sweetness.
Layered Delight: Bake a third layer and add more frosting between layers for an extravagant treat; use a sprinkle of chai spice to top it off!
Going Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for an even gluten-free blend, ensuring your cake remains just as moist and delicious.
Chai Cake Cupcakes: Pour the batter into cupcake liners for easy-to-eat portions; adjust bake time to roughly 18-20 minutes.

Feel free to experiment and make this recipe your own! And if you’re looking for other inspiring treats, don’t miss out on our amazing Cranberry Sauce Coffee Cake and the decadent Velvet Oreo Cheesecake.

Chai Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of chai spices should I use in my Chai Cake?
Absolutely! For an authentic chai flavor in your Chai Cake, I recommend using a combination of ground cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and a hint of black pepper. These spices mimic the warm, cozy tastes you’d expect from a cup of chai. Adjust these spices based on your taste preferences; for instance, you can increase cardamom for a stronger flavor.

How should I store leftover Chai Cake?
To keep your Chai Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Before serving, let it sit out for about 30 minutes to reach room temperature, as this enhances both the texture and flavor. If you notice frosting starting to soften, place it back in the fridge for a little bit.

Can I freeze my Chai Cake?
Yes! To freeze your Chai Cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving. For the best flavor, frost the cake after thawing, as the frosting may not freeze well.

What if my Chai Cake is too dense?
If your Chai Cake turns out denser than expected, it may be due to overmixing the batter or using cold ingredients. Next time, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature and mix the batter just until combined after adding the flour. Remember, a few flour streaks left means perfect moist cake!

Are there any common allergen considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! This Chai Cake contains eggs, dairy, and wheat. If you’re baking for someone with allergies, consider using egg substitutes like flaxseed meal or applesauce for binding, and swap out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Also, ensure that the cream cheese is suitable for their dietary needs.

Can I use different frostings on my Chai Cake?
Very! While the brown sugar cream cheese frosting pairs beautifully with the spices, you can try alternatives like a simple vanilla buttercream or a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for a lighter option. Get creative based on what you have on hand or your flavor preferences.