Description
Experience the cozy, aromatic delight of a Chai Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. This warmly spiced cake is infused with a blend of cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves, then topped with a tangy, creamy frosting that complements every bite. Perfect for holiday gatherings, afternoon tea, or a cozy dessert night, it’s a crowd-pleasing treat you’ll want to make again and again.
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Ingredients
For the Chai Spice Cake:
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tsp baking powder
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½ tsp baking soda
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½ tsp salt
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1 tsp ground cinnamon
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½ tsp ground cardamom
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½ tsp ground ginger
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¼ tsp ground cloves
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¼ tsp ground nutmeg
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¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
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½ cup granulated sugar
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3 large eggs
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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¾ cup plain yogurt or sour cream
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½ cup milk (any kind)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
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2 ½ cups powdered sugar, sifted
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
Optional Garnishes:
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Cinnamon sugar sprinkle
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Chai spice dusting
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Star anise or whole cloves (for decoration)
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Edible flowers or chopped nuts
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Pans
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and line cake pans with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and all the spices.
Set aside.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with brown and granulated sugars until light and fluffy.
Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each.
Mix in vanilla, yogurt, and milk until fully combined.
Step 5: Combine and Bake
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
Divide batter between prepared pans and smooth the tops.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
Add powdered sugar gradually, then vanilla and salt.
Beat until creamy and fluffy.
Step 7: Frost and Decorate
Once cakes are completely cool, frost the top of one layer.
Stack the second layer and frost the top and sides.
Add your favorite garnish and chill slightly to set before slicing.
Notes
Use Room Temperature Ingredients – They mix better and create a smoother batter.
Don’t Overmix – Stir just until ingredients are incorporated to keep the crumb tender.
Cool Cakes Completely – Warm cake will melt your frosting.
Spice It Up – Adjust the chai spice blend to match your favorite tea flavors.
Make Ahead – Bake the cakes a day early and frost before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Cuisine: American