If you have been on the hunt for a cake that warmly wraps you in cozy spices and creamy sweetness, you have got to try this Chai Spice Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. It’s like autumn in every bite, blending fragrant spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves into a tender, moist cake layered with luscious cream cheese frosting that perfectly balances sweetness and tang. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or treating yourself to an unforgettable homemade dessert, this recipe is guaranteed to fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your heart with joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chai Spice Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe brings together straightforward ingredients that work harmoniously to create magic. Each element is carefully chosen to contribute to the cake’s delightful texture, rich flavor, and inviting aroma.
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives your cake structure and crumb.
- 1 1/2 cups dark brown sugar: Adds deep, molasses-like sweetness and moisture.
- 1 tbsp + 3/4 tsp baking powder: Leavens the cake to light perfection.
- 1 tsp kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness.
- 1 tbsp cinnamon: A classic chai spice that lends warmth and depth.
- 2 tsp cardamom: Brings a unique, floral spice that elevates the flavor profile.
- 1 tsp ginger: Adds a zesty, spicy kick that wakes up your palate.
- 1 tsp allspice: Combines hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves in one.
- 1 tsp nutmeg: Offers a subtle sweetness and aromatic aroma.
- 1 tsp cloves: Provides an earthy spice note, like chai’s signature touch.
- 10 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature: Creates tenderness and richness.
- 1/2 cup neutral oil: Keeps the cake moist and soft.
- 1 1/4 cups whole milk, room temperature: Adds moisture and tenderness.
- 2 eggs, room temperature: Bind the ingredients and contribute to the cake’s airy texture.
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract: Rounds out and deepens the flavor.
- 16 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature (for frosting): Creates a smooth, creamy base for the cream cheese frosting.
- 12 oz cream cheese, cold: Brings tangy richness that complements the spices perfectly.
- 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted: Sweetens the frosting without graininess.
How to Make Chai Spice Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pans
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease two 9-inch cake pans and line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure clean edges. This initial step sets the stage for perfect cake layers.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients and Spices
In a large bowl, whisk together your flour, dark brown sugar, baking powder, kosher salt, and the full bouquet of chai spices—cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, allspice, nutmeg, and cloves. This combines the essential flavors that make this cake truly unique.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
Add the cubed unsalted butter to your dry mixture and blend until the texture resembles wet sand. This technique ensures wonderful crumb texture and evenly distributed fat for tenderness.
Step 4: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Gently stir in the neutral oil, whole milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until just combined. Overmixing here can toughen your cake, so keep it light and gentle for softness.
Step 5: Bake the Cake Layers
Divide your batter evenly between the prepared pans. Pop them in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The smell while baking will fill your home with cozy chai aromas that invite anticipation.
Step 6: Cool Completely
Once baked, let the cakes cool on a wire rack completely before frosting. Cooling prevents your cream cheese frosting from melting right off and ensures neat, beautiful layers.
Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat the room-temperature butter and cold cream cheese together until smooth. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar to achieve a creamy, spreadable frosting that’s sweet but tangy, perfectly complementing the spicy cake.
Step 8: Frost and Decorate
Spread a generous layer of frosting on one cake layer, place the second on top, and frost the entire cake. Feel free to decorate with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or edible flowers for an inviting final touch.
How to Serve Chai Spice Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of cinnamon or a few crushed pistachios makes a stunning garnish. Fresh edible flowers also add visual appeal and a subtle floral note that pairs wonderfully with the chai spices.
Side Dishes
This cake shines alongside a cup of chai tea or spiced latte to echo the flavors in every bite. For a richer experience, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream melds beautifully with the spices and cream cheese frosting.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the cake into petite squares and serving them on a wooden board with fresh berries for a charming dessert spread. Alternatively, layer the cake into individual trifles combining crumbs, frosting, and whipped cream for a playful twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to five days. This keeps the cream cheese frosting fresh and the cake moist.
Freezing
You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers wrapped well in plastic and foil for up to three months. Thaw completely before frosting to maintain texture and flavor integrity.
Reheating
Since this cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, avoid microwaving. Instead, let refrigerated slices sit out for 30 minutes to soften before serving.
FAQs
Can I make this cake dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with dairy-free alternatives and use plant-based milk to keep the cake moist while accommodating dietary needs.
How long does this cake stay fresh?
With proper refrigeration, the cake stays fresh and delicious for about five days, making it perfect for preparing ahead of time.
Can I use a different spice blend?
Absolutely! While the chai spice blend creates its signature flavor, you can experiment with pumpkin spice or even add a bit of espresso powder for a unique twist.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Definitely. The steps are straightforward and the ingredients simple, making this Chai Spice Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe an excellent choice for novice bakers wanting to impress.
Can I make cupcakes instead of a layer cake?
Yes, this batter works wonderfully for cupcakes. Adjust baking time to about 20-25 minutes and frost once cooled for delicious, individual treats.
Final Thoughts
This Chai Spice Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is one of those joyful kitchen moments that reward you with deep, warming flavors and a luscious finish. It’s a perfect centerpiece for gatherings or a sweet companion to quiet afternoons. I can’t wait for you to bake it and fall in love with every comforting, spiced bite.
Print
Chai Spice Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chai Cake is a moist and aromatic spice cake infused with classic chai spices like cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves, layered with a smooth and creamy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for tea time or any festive occasion, this recipe combines warm flavors of chai with rich, tender cake texture, resulting in a delightful dessert that serves 20 people.
Ingredients
Cake
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups dark brown sugar
- 1 tbsp + 3/4 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp cinnamon
- 2 tsp cardamom
- 1 tsp ginger
- 1 tsp allspice
- 1 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tsp cloves
- 10 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/2 cup neutral oil
- 1 1/4 cups whole milk, room temperature
- 2 eggs, room temperature
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
Frosting
- 16 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature
- 12 oz cream cheese, cold
- 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pans: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease two 9-inch cake pans thoroughly and line them with parchment paper to ensure easy cake removal after baking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, dark brown sugar, baking powder, kosher salt, and all the chai spices—cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, allspice, nutmeg, and cloves—until well combined to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Incorporate butter: Add the cubed unsalted butter to the dry mixture. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, mix until the mixture resembles wet sand, which helps create a tender crumb in the cake.
- Add wet ingredients: Pour in the neutral oil, whole milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Divide and bake: Evenly divide the batter between the two prepared pans. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes: Remove the pans from the oven and allow the cakes to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting.
- Prepare frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the room temperature butter and cold cream cheese together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar and continue to beat until fully combined and fluffy.
- Frost the cake: Once the cakes have completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly on one cake layer, top with the second layer, and frost the top and sides as desired. Decorate with extra spices or toppings if preferred.
Notes
- Ensure all wet ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a smooth batter and even bake.
- Don’t overmix the batter to avoid dense cake layers.
- Allow the cake to cool fully before frosting for best results.
- You can customize decoration with a sprinkle of cinnamon or edible flowers.
- This cake stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
