Chai Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Introduction
Welcome to this delightful journey of flavor! If you’re looking for the perfect dessert to embrace the cozy vibes of fall, look no further than this scrumptious Chai Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. With its warm spices and rich flavors, this cake is truly a treat for the senses. Plus, it’s simple to make! If you’d like to receive this recipe and more directly to your inbox, subscribe today!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chai Cake is not just about taste; it’s about the experience! The aroma of warm spices filling your kitchen will warm your heart and make your home feel inviting. The combination of cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger creates a wonderfully spiced flavor profile, while the cream cheese frosting adds a perfect creamy touch. It’s a family-friendly recipe that is both easy to prepare and absolutely delicious, guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering!
Ingredients
For the Chai Cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ tsp baking powder
– ½ tsp baking soda
– ½ tsp salt
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– ½ tsp ground cardamom
– ½ tsp ground nutmeg
– ½ tsp ground cloves
– 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup brown sugar
– 3 large eggs, room temperature
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
– 2 chai tea bags
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1-2 tbsp milk, if needed
Necessary Tools
– Two 8-inch round cake pans
– Parchment paper
– Mixing bowls
– Whisk
– Electric mixer
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Toothpick for testing doneness
– Wire rack for cooling
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Feeling adventurous? You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make this cake gluten-free! You could also add a handful of nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for extra crunch. Want to jazz it up further? Consider adding a layer of spiced pear or apple compote between the cake layers for a delightful surprise!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease those cake pans, lining them with parchment paper.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the milk until it simmers. Remove from heat, infuse with the chai tea bags, and let it steep for 5 minutes. Discard the bags and allow the milk to cool.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.
4. In a larger bowl, cream together the butter and sugars until fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and the cooled chai milk to the butter mixture, usually starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Divide the batter between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before turning them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
8. For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar until fluffy and creamy. Add vanilla extract and adjust consistency with milk if needed.
9. Once cooled, place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread frosting on top, then add the second layer and finish frosting the whole cake.
10. Feel free to decorate with sprinkles, nuts, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for that extra touch!
Serving Suggestions
Pair this delightful Chai Cake with a cup of your favorite chai or an herbal tea. It also makes a wonderful addition to any fall gathering or as a special treat for cozy family dinners!
Pro Tips for Success
– Make sure your ingredients are room temperature for a smoother batter.
– Don’t overmix the batter—mix until just combined to maintain a light, fluffy texture.
– Use a toothpick to test for doneness; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Storing and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate the cake, but it’s best enjoyed fresh!
FAQ Section
– Can I freeze the cake? Absolutely! You can freeze the un-frosted cake layers wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Just let them thaw before frosting.
-What if I don’t have chai tea bags? You can create your own blend with spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger mixed in with the milk!
Conclusion
This Chai Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting not only looks impressive but is also a warm hug on a plate! Join the delightful experience of baking this cozy treat and share it with loved ones. Don’t forget to leave a review, share your photos, and tag us on Pinterest or Instagram—let’s spread the love for baking together!
Nutritional Information (approx per serving)
Calories: 350
Protein: 3g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Sugar: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 180mg
