As the aroma of warm spices wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel enveloped in a cozy embrace, much like that first sip of your favorite chai latte. Today, I’m excited to share my Moist Chai Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting—a delightful way to celebrate the comforting flavors of chai in cake form. This recipe brings together aromatic spices and a tender crumb, making it a showstopper for any gathering or a sweet indulgence for yourself. With quick prep time and the added bonus of being a total crowd-pleaser, this dessert is not just about satisfying a sweet tooth; it’s about creating moments that warm the heart. Are you ready to dive into this delicious adventure?
Why is Chai Cake a Must-Try?
Irresistible flavor: Each bite of this Moist Chai Cake is infused with warming spices like cardamom and ginger, summoning memories of your favorite chai latte.
Quick to prepare: With straightforward steps and a short prep time, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
Perfectly indulgent: The rich brown sugar cream cheese frosting takes it over the top, creating a decadent finish that everyone will love—great for sharing during cozy gatherings!
Versatile delight: Whether it’s a birthday celebration or a simple afternoon treat, this cake fits any occasion beautifully.
Impressive appearance: Layer it up for a stunning presentation. Pair it with your favorite chai or coffee to elevate the experience even further! For more delightful cake options, check out my Chai Cake Decadent or Banana Split Cake for more scrumptious inspiration.
Chai Cake Ingredients
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For the Cake
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Butter – Provides richness and moisture; use room temperature for easier mixing.
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Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and structure; consider reducing if using very sweet frosting.
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Brown Sugar – Imparts moisture and a hint of caramel flavor; dark brown sugar intensifies sweetness.
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Eggs – Serves as a binder for structure and moisture; make sure they are at room temperature.
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All-Purpose Flour – The foundation for the cake, ensuring structure; sifted to guarantee lightness.
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Cornstarch – Softens the cake texture; can be omitted for a denser crumb.
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Ground Spices (Cardamom, Cinnamon, Ginger, Allspice, Nutmeg, Black Pepper) – Adds warm, aromatic flavors; adjust to taste as spice potency varies.
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Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Leaveners that help the cake rise; do not substitute one for the other.
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Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors; essential for taste.
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Sour Cream – Provides moisture and tenderness; can be substituted with Greek yogurt in a 1:1 ratio.
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Vegetable Oil – Delivers additional moisture; feel free to use melted coconut oil or butter instead.
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Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile; opt for pure extract for best results.
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For the Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting
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Butter – Creates a smooth, creamy base for the frosting.
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Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and structure; sifting helps avoid lumps.
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Brown Sugar – Introduces depth and sweetness; dark brown sugar yields a richer flavor.
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Cream Cheese – Provides tanginess and creaminess; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy blending.
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Vanilla Bean Paste – Intensifies flavor with delightful specks of vanilla; extract can serve as a substitute.
This ingredient list captures everything you need to create the most delightful Chai Cake with creamy frosting that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chai Cake
Step 1: Prepare Cake Pans
Preheat your oven to 170ºC (340ºF) and line two 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This will ensure your Moist Chai Cake releases easily after baking. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients, so everything is ready for smooth mixing.
Step 2: Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, ground spices, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is crucial as it aerates the flour and evenly distributes the spices, making it easier to incorporate into the wet ingredients later. Set this mixture aside, and prepare for the next exciting phase.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer. You want it to look pale and creamy, which will help create a tender crumb for your chai cake. This is the heart of your cake’s texture!
Step 4: Incorporate Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time into the butter and sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. This step helps to bind the ingredients together, ensuring a moist and cohesive cake. Allow the mixture to fully combine before moving on; it should appear smooth and glossy.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet
Gradually add half of the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Then, add the sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract, blending until smooth. Follow with the remaining flour mixture, mixing until no flour streaks remain, being careful not to overmix the batter for your Moist Chai Cake.
Step 6: Bake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 28-30 minutes, or until a cake tester inserted in the center comes out clean. When done, the cakes should be golden brown and spring back when lightly pressed.
Step 7: Make Frosting
While the cakes cool, prepare the brown sugar cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, powdered sugar, and brown sugar together until creamy. Add the vanilla bean paste and room temperature cream cheese, mixing until very smooth and fluffy. This rich frosting will beautifully complement your chai cake.
Step 8: Assemble Cake
Once the cakes are completely cool, level the tops if necessary. Place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread a generous layer of frosting on top, then gently place the second layer on top. Apply a thin layer of frosting around the sides of the cake for a naked look, and feel free to decorate with extra spices or neat sticks for a lovely presentation.
What to Serve with Moist Chai Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting
As the warm spices of this delightful cake fill the air, it’s time to think about the perfect complements to enhance every bite.
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Chai Tea: The ultimate pairing! Sipping on fragrant chai tea amplifies the cozy flavors of the cake, making every moment feel warm and inviting.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream offers a smooth contrast to the spiced cake, creating a luscious mouthfeel that balances the sweetness.
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Candied Nuts: Crunchy, sweetened nuts like pecans or almonds add a delightful texture that complements the cake’s soft layers and rich frosting.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce brings a luscious, gooey quality that enhances the flavorful depth of the brown sugar frosting.
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Autumn Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring apples, pears, and pomegranate seeds can provide a fresh, tangy note that cuts through the cake’s sweetness.
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Spiced Hot Chocolate: A cup of spiced hot chocolate pairs harmoniously, matching the cake’s warm flavors while providing a rich and comforting drink option.
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Whipped Cream: Light, fluffy whipped cream adds a divine creaminess with a hint of vanilla, making for an indulgent addition that rounds out the dessert beautifully.
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Bourbon or Spiced Rum: For an adult twist, serve the cake alongside a small glass of bourbon or spiced rum to enhance the aromatic spices within the cake.
How to Store and Freeze Chai Cake
- Room Temperature: Keep the Chai Cake at room temperature for up to 1 day if it’s freshly frosted. Make sure to cover it with a cake dome or plastic wrap to keep it moist.
- Fridge: Store the assembled Chai Cake in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain its delicious flavors, best enjoyed within 2–3 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
- Freezer: Wrap individual cake layers separately in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. The cake can be frozen for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
- Reheating: If you have leftovers, reheat slices in the microwave for a few seconds to restore its delightful moisture and warmth, enhancing the chai flavors beautifully!
Chai Cake Variations & Substitutions
Customize your chai cake experience and let your creativity shine with these delightful twists!
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Single Layer Cake: Halve the recipe for a simpler single layer or bake in a larger sheet pan for easy serving. Enjoy the same great flavors without extra fuss!
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Frosting Flavor Boost: Add a splash of pure maple syrup or honey to your frosting for an unexpected twist that enhances the sweetness beautifully. This variation adds complexity and richness to each slice.
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Make it Vegan: Swap out butter for coconut oil and replace eggs with flax eggs or unsweetened applesauce. You’ll still indulge in that comforting chai vibe, but with a plant-based twist!
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Nutty Delight: Incorporate toasted chopped almonds or walnuts into the batter for added crunch and flavor. These ingredients not only add texture but also complement the spices beautifully.
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Spiced Chocolate Version: Add 1/3 cup of cocoa powder to the flour mixture, creating a chocolatey chai experience. Swirls of cocoa will transform your cake into an indulgent treat for chocolate lovers.
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Fruity Twist: Fold in 1 cup of finely chopped pears or apples into the batter for a moist and fruity addition. The fruits add a natural sweetness that beautifully contrasts with the spice.
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Gluten-Free Adaptation: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring it’s suitable for gluten-sensitive friends. Your chai cake can be enjoyed by everyone!
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Extra Spicy: Boost the spice levels by increasing the amount of ginger or cardamom to suit your taste buds. A little extra zing can elevate the chai experience to new heights!
For more scrumptious ideas, don’t forget to explore my other tasty treats like Chai Cake Decadent or the flavorful Ube Mochi Cake. Sweet adventures await in each bite!
Make Ahead Options
These Moist Chai Cakes are perfect for meal prep and can make your busy weeknights so much easier! You can bake the cake layers up to 3 days in advance. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to preserve their moisture and flavor. The brown sugar cream cheese frosting can be made up to 24 hours ahead of time; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, take the layers out, frost them, and let the cake come to room temperature for the best flavor experience. With these make-ahead options, you’ll achieve delicious dessert results with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Chai Cake
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature. This promotes better mixing and helps create a light, fluffy batter for your Chai Cake.
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Sift for Lightness: Always sift your dry ingredients, including flour and spices. This aerates the flour and ensures even distribution, resulting in a tender crumb and delightful texture.
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Don’t Overmix: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so handle that batter with care!
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Test for Doneness: The cake might still be light in color; rely on a toothpick or cake tester inserted in the center. If it comes out clean, your chai cake is perfectly baked.
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Cool Completely: Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting. If they’re still warm, the frosting may melt and slide off, ruining that lovely presentation.
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Delicious Storage: For the best flavor and texture, store your assembled chai cake in an airtight container in the fridge. Enjoy within 2-3 days for optimal freshness!
Chai Cake Recipe FAQs
What spices should I use for my Chai Cake?
I recommend using a blend of ground spices like cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg, and a pinch of black pepper to create that authentic chai flavor. Adjust the measurements based on your personal taste; you may want to start with about 1 teaspoon each and tweak as you like!
How long can I store my Chai Cake?
The assembled Chai Cake can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about 2-3 days. It’s best enjoyed at room temperature, so allow it to sit out for about 30 minutes before serving for maximum flavor and tenderness.
Can I freeze my Chai Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each of the cooled cake layers separately in plastic wrap. Place them in an airtight container or zip-top freezer bag; this way, they stay fresh for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the layers overnight in the fridge before frosting and serving.
What if my cake is too dense?
If you find your Chai Cake turns out denser than expected, it could be due to overmixing the batter after adding the dry ingredients. Next time, mix gently until just combined. Also, ensure that your ingredients, especially baking powder and soda, are fresh, as old leavening agents can hinder the lift!
Can I use substitutions for dietary restrictions?
Yes! You can make this Chai Cake vegan by replacing butter with coconut oil and using flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water per egg). Greek yogurt can substitute sour cream in a 1:1 ratio, but check that your replacements align with dietary preferences!
How can I achieve the best frosting consistency?
To achieve a creamy consistency for your brown sugar cream cheese frosting, make sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before mixing. Start with the butter and powdered sugar, then gradually add the cream cheese, beating until smooth. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired texture!
Heavenly Chai Cake with Creamy Brown Sugar Frosting
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 170ºC (340ºF) and line two 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, sift together flour, cornstarch, ground spices, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until smooth.
- Gradually mix half the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, then add sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla. Finish mixing with the remaining flour.
- Divide the batter evenly between the cake pans and bake for 28-30 minutes or until a tester comes out clean.
- While the cakes cool, prepare the frosting by mixing the softened butter, powdered sugar, and brown sugar until creamy, then add cream cheese and vanilla bean paste, mixing until smooth.
- Once cooled, level the cakes, place one layer on a serving plate, frost generously, and top with the second layer. Finish with a thin layer of frosting on the sides.
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