Brown Sugar Chai Cake

This Brown Sugar Chai Cake is a delightful dessert that perfectly blends warm spices with a sweet, creamy frosting. Ideal for any celebration, this cake offers a comforting taste that will impress your guests and make any occasion special. With its moist layers and inviting aroma, it’s the perfect centerpiece for your next gathering or holiday feast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Flavors: The combination of chai spices like cinnamon and cardamom creates a warm and inviting flavor profile that’s perfect for cozy gatherings.
• Impressive Presentation: This cake has beautiful layers topped with smooth cream cheese frosting, making it visually appealing for any event.
• Feeds a Crowd: With 20 servings, this cake is perfect for parties, family gatherings, or celebrations where you want to serve many people without extra effort.
• Easy to Make: Despite its sophisticated taste, the recipe is straightforward, allowing bakers of all skill levels to create this delicious treat.
• Versatile Use: Enjoy it as a dessert or pair it with coffee or tea for an afternoon treat that everyone will love.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make baking your Brown Sugar Chai Cake easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Baking pans (two 9-inch round)
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools save time and ensure that ingredients are mixed thoroughly for a light and fluffy cake.
• Baking pans: Properly sized pans help achieve even baking, preventing undercooked or burnt edges.

Ingredients

This brown sugar chai cake consists of two moist cake layers filled with warm & cozy spices that are wrapped up in a sweet, yet tangy cream cheese frosting. It’s a simple festive cake that’s sure to impress and feed a crowd!

For the Cake

• 390 g all-purpose flour
• 320 g dark brown sugar
• 15 g baking powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 tbsp cinnamon
• 2 tsp cardamom
• 1 tsp ginger
• 1 tsp allspice
• 1 tsp nutmeg
• 1 tsp cloves
• 140 g unsalted butter (room temp)
• 100 g neutral oil
• 283 g whole milk (room temp)
• 2 eggs (room temp)
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract

For the Frosting

• 227 g unsalted butter (room temp)
• 12 oz cream cheese (cold)
• 340 g powdered sugar (sifted)

How to Make Brown Sugar Chai Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your two 9-inch round baking pans with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, mix together the following:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking powder
3. Kosher salt
4. Cinnamon
5. Cardamom
6. Ginger
7. Allspice
8. Nutmeg
9. Cloves

Whisk these ingredients until well combined.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In your stand mixer bowl, beat together the room temperature unsalted butter and dark brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes on medium speed.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the neutral oil, whole milk, eggs, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Continue mixing until everything is well blended.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; stop as soon as there are no flour streaks.

Step 6: Bake the Cakes

Evenly divide the batter between the prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool Layers

Once baked, remove from oven and let cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Prepare Frosting

While cakes are cooling, prepare your cream cheese frosting by beating together cold cream cheese and room temperature unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar until fully incorporated.

Step 9: Frost Your Cake

Once cakes are cooled completely, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread frosting on top before adding the second layer. Use remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake as desired.

Enjoy your delicious Brown Sugar Chai Cake, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Brown Sugar Chai Cake

Serving your Brown Sugar Chai Cake can elevate the experience and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some delightful ways to present this cozy treat that will impress your guests.

Classic Slice

• Serve a classic slice of the cake on its own, showcasing its moist texture and warm spices.

With Fresh Berries

• Top each slice with a handful of fresh berries for added color and a hint of tartness that complements the sweetness of the cake.

Ice Cream Delight

• Pair a slice with a scoop of vanilla or chai-flavored ice cream for a creamy contrast that enhances the flavor profile.

Drizzled with Caramel

• Add a drizzle of warm caramel sauce over the top for an extra indulgent touch that brings out the brown sugar notes.

Coffee Companion

• Serve alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or chai tea to enhance the spiced flavors and create a comforting atmosphere.

Festive Platter

• Arrange slices on a festive platter, garnished with cinnamon sticks and star anise for an appealing presentation at gatherings.

How to Perfect Brown Sugar Chai Cake

Baking the perfect Brown Sugar Chai Cake requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out amazing every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and promotes even baking.
• Measure flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour accurately. Too much flour can lead to a dry cake, while too little can make it dense.
• Don’t overmix: Mix the batter just until combined. Overmixing can result in a tough texture rather than a light and fluffy cake.
• Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. It should come out clean or with minimal crumbs for perfect doneness.
• Cool completely before frosting: Allow your cake layers to cool completely before frosting them. This prevents melting and ensures clean edges in your final presentation.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste preference. A little more cinnamon or cardamom can add unique flavors!

Best Side Dishes for Brown Sugar Chai Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Brown Sugar Chai Cake can enhance its appeal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Whipped Cream
   A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds airy lightness and complements the spices perfectly.
2. Spiced Nuts
   Roasted spiced nuts offer a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the cake.
3. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing fruit salad provides brightness, balancing out the richness of the cake while adding natural sweetness.
4. Chai Latte
   Serve with a warm chai latte, echoing the flavors in the cake while creating a cozy pairing for tea lovers.
5. Cheese Platter
   A selection of mild cheeses can create an interesting flavor contrast, making each bite exciting and flavorful.
6. Chocolate Sauce
   Drizzling chocolate sauce over each slice adds an indulgent touch that chocolate lovers will enjoy greatly!
7. Caramelized Pears
   Warm caramelized pears will introduce another layer of flavor that pairs wonderfully with chai spices.
8. Coconut Macaroons
   These chewy treats will provide texture variety while their sweetness harmonizes nicely with the chai flavors in your cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Brown Sugar Chai Cake can be easy, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not measuring ingredients correctly: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success. Use a kitchen scale for the best results.
• Ignoring room temperature ingredients: Using cold butter or eggs can affect the cake’s texture. Always bring your dairy and eggs to room temperature before starting.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a light and airy texture.
• Skipping the spices: The warm spices are what make this cake special. Don’t skip them; use fresh spices for the best flavor.
• Underestimating cooling time: Allow your cakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Brown Sugar Chai Cake in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator without losing its flavor.

Freezing Brown Sugar Chai Cake

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months, maintaining its taste and texture.

Reheating Brown Sugar Chai Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 20-30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Brown Sugar Chai Cake unique?

Brown Sugar Chai Cake is unique due to its blend of cozy spices that create a warm flavor profile, setting it apart from traditional cakes.

Can I customize my Brown Sugar Chai Cake?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate chips to give it your personal touch.

How do I know when my cake is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs clinging, your cake is ready!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Adjustments may be needed for moisture content.

Final Thoughts

This Brown Sugar Chai Cake is an impressive dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Its moist layers combined with spices create a delightful experience that everyone will enjoy. Feel free to customize it with your favorite add-ins or toppings!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Brown Sugar Chai Cake

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 20 slices 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Brown Sugar Chai Cake is a delightful fusion of warm spices and sweet cream cheese frosting, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion. This moist cake features layers infused with cozy flavors like cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger, offering a comforting taste that will impress your guests. Ideal for gatherings or holidays, this cake not only looks stunning with its smooth frosting but also serves up to 20 people, making it a crowd-pleaser. Whether you enjoy it as a standalone treat or paired with coffee or tea, this cake is sure to be a hit at your next celebration.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 390 g all-purpose flour
• 320 g dark brown sugar
• 15 g baking powder
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tbsp cinnamon
• 2 tsp cardamom
• 1 tsp ginger
• 1 tsp allspice
• 1 tsp nutmeg
• 1 tsp cloves
• 140 g unsalted butter (room temp)
• 100 g neutral oil
• 283 g whole milk (room temp)
• 2 eggs (room temp)
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 227 g unsalted butter (room temp)
• 12 oz cream cheese (cold)
• 340 g powdered sugar (sifted)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round baking pans.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and spices until well combined.
3. In a stand mixer bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add oil, milk, eggs, and vanilla; mix until blended.
5. Gradually combine dry ingredients with wet ingredients on low speed until just mixed.
6. Divide batter into prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
8. Prepare frosting by mixing butter and cream cheese until smooth; gradually add powdered sugar.
9. Frost cooled cake layers as desired.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 330
• Sugar: 28g
• Sodium: 230mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 70mg