Chai Cake is a delightful dessert that captures the warm, aromatic flavors of chai tea in a moist and fluffy cake. This recipe features a blend of spices reminiscent of traditional chai, making it a perfect treat for tea lovers and anyone looking for a cozy dessert. The cake pairs beautifully with a rich frosting, creating a delightful experience in every bite.

Ingredients

For the Chai Cake

• 2 ¼ cups (282 g) all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

• 1 ½ teaspoons ground ginger

• ½ teaspoon ground allspice

• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom

• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves

• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

• ¼ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 10 tablespoons (140 g) unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar

• ½ cup (110 g) brown sugar, packed

• 3 large eggs, at room temperature

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk, at room temperature

For the Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting

• 1 ¼ cups (280 g) unsalted butter

• 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, cold

• 2 cups (260 g) powdered sugar

For the Chai Milk Soak

• ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk

• 2 chai tea bags

• ½ cup (150 g) sweetened condensed milk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method of Preparation

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch light metal baking pan and line it with parchment paper.

2. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg, cardamom, cloves, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer on high speed for about 2 minutes until light and fluffy.

4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until well combined. Then add the vanilla extract.

5. Incorporate Buttermilk and Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in the buttermilk and dry ingredients alternately until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

6. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35–38 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Cool the Cake: Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 30 minutes before transferring it to cool completely.

8. Prepare Chai Milk Soak: In a small saucepan, heat the milk and steep the chai tea bags for about 10 minutes. Remove tea bags and stir in sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract.

9. Soak the Cake: Once cooled, poke holes in the cake with a skewer and pour the chai milk soak over it.

10. Make Frosting: In a separate bowl, beat together brown butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar until fully incorporated.

11. Frost the Cake: Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake before serving.

Cooking Tips and Mistakes to Avoid

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for better mixing.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cake tender; overmixing can lead to a dense texture.

• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.

Serving Suggestions

Chai Cake is perfect on its own or served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Pair it with a cup of chai tea for an extra cozy experience!

Health Benefits of Ingredients

• Spices: Many spices used in chai have anti-inflammatory properties and can aid digestion.

• Cream Cheese: Provides calcium and protein while adding creaminess to frosting.

• Butter: Adds flavor; when consumed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet.

Summary of Recipe

Chai Cake is a spiced dessert that combines traditional chai flavors with moist cake texture topped with creamy frosting. This recipe is easy to follow and results in a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This cake is loved for its unique combination of spicy warmth from chai and creamy sweetness from frosting. It’s an ideal dessert for gatherings or cozy nights in, bringing comfort with every bite.

Interesting Facts

Chai has its origins in India, where it is traditionally made with black tea brewed with spices and milk. The popularity of chai has spread globally, inspiring various culinary creations like this delicious Chai Cake that celebrates those rich flavors in dessert form.

In summary, Chai Cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that brings together warmth, flavor, and comfort—perfect for any occasion! Enjoy this delightful treat as part of your next gathering or as an indulgent personal treat!