Name: The Best Moist Chai Cake with Irresistible Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 180 g Butter (Provides richness and moisture; substitute with margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.); 150 g Granulated Sugar (Adds sweetness and structure; no direct substitutions recommended.); 150 g Dark Brown Sugar (Contributes moisture and depth of flavor; can use light brown sugar as a substitute.); 4 large Eggs (Essential for binding and structure; can replace with flax eggs for a vegan option.); 330 g All-Purpose Flour (The base structure of the cake; gluten-free flour blend can be used as a substitute.); 1 tbsp Cornstarch (Helps to lighten the cake texture; can omit if not available.); 1 tbsp Ground Cardamom (Introduces a warm, aromatic flavor; no substitution but can reduce to taste.); 1 tbsp Ground Cinnamon (Adds warmth and spice; can use Chinese five-spice for a twist.); 1.5 tsp Ground Ginger (Provides a zing; fresh ginger can be used as an alternative.); 0.5 tsp Ground Allspice (Adds complexity; can be omitted or replaced with nutmeg.); 0.5 tsp Ground Nutmeg (For added warmth; omit if unavailable.); 0.25 tsp Ground Black Pepper (Enhances flavors; omit for a milder taste.); 0.75 tsp Baking Powder (A leavening agent to help the cake rise; do not substitute.); 0.75 tsp Baking Soda (Also for leavening; ensure it’s fresh; otherwise, omit.); 0.5 tsp Salt (Enhances sweetness and balances flavors; omit for low-sodium diets.); 240 g Sour Cream (Improves moisture and adds tanginess; full-fat Greek yogurt can be a direct substitute.); 60 g Vegetable Oil (Enhances moisture and tenderness; can use melted coconut oil for a distinct flavor.); 1.5 tsp Vanilla Extract (Adds sweetness and flavor depth; use vanilla bean paste for an intensified flavor.); 200 g Butter (Provides richness and creamy texture; substitute similarly as for the cake.); 280 g Powdered Sugar (Sweetens frosting and creates a smooth texture; no substitutions recommended.); 30 g Dark Brown Sugar (Adds depth to frosting; light brown sugar can work just as well.); 115 g Cream Cheese (For a tangy, creamy frosting; vegan cream cheese can be used as an alternative.); 0.5 tsp Vanilla Bean Paste (Enhances overall flavor; pure vanilla extract is a good substitute.)

There's nothing quite like the cozy embrace of a homemade dessert, especially when it’s a slice of Chai Cake. The moment you take a bite, you’re transported to a warm café, where the enticing blend of spices dances on your palate like a cozy autumn breeze. I discovered this recipe on one of those rainy afternoons when all I wanted was to bask in the soothing aroma of freshly baked goods mingled with the scents of cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves.

Perfect for any gathering or simply an afternoon treat, this Moist Chai Layer Cake makes an impressive statement with its rich brown sugar cream cheese frosting that transforms each bite into pure indulgence. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or seeking a special treat for yourself, this cake brings a touch of warmth and joy that’s reminiscent of quiet moments spent with a cup of chai. Let me show you how to create this delightful centerpiece that is sure to impress friends and family alike!

Why is this Chai Cake unforgettable?

Irresistible Flavor: The perfect blend of chai spices creates a tantalizing taste that's both comforting and exotic.
Moist & Tender: Each slice boasts a soft texture, thanks to sour cream and butter, making it a cake you’ll crave again and again.
Stunning Presentation: Layers of frosting and spices elevate your dessert, making it perfect for special occasions.
Versatile Serving Ideas: Whether with tea, coffee, or as a stand-alone treat, it’s bound to delight. Plus, don’t forget to explore alternate options like chai-flavored cupcakes for even more deliciousness!
Time-Saving Delight: With straightforward steps, you can create a gourmet dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This cake is sure to be a hit at any gathering, leaving everyone asking for seconds!

Chai Cake Ingredients

For the Cake

Butter (180g) – Provides richness and moisture; substitute with margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Granulated Sugar (150g) – Adds sweetness and structure; no direct substitutions recommended.
Dark Brown Sugar (150g) – Contributes moisture and depth of flavor; can use light brown sugar as a substitute.
Eggs (4 large) – Essential for binding and structure; can replace with flax eggs for a vegan option.
All-Purpose Flour (330g) – The base structure of the cake; gluten-free flour blend can be used as a substitute.
Cornstarch (1 tbsp) – Helps to lighten the cake texture; can omit if not available.
Ground Cardamom (1 tbsp) – Introduces a warm, aromatic flavor; no substitution but can reduce to taste.
Ground Cinnamon (1 tbsp) – Adds warmth and spice; can use Chinese five-spice for a twist.
Ground Ginger (1.5 tsp) – Provides a zing; fresh ginger can be used as an alternative.
Ground Allspice (0.5 tsp) – Adds complexity; can be omitted or replaced with nutmeg.
Ground Nutmeg (0.5 tsp) – For added warmth; omit if unavailable.
Ground Black Pepper (0.25 tsp) – Enhances flavors; omit for a milder taste.
Baking Powder (0.75 tsp) – A leavening agent to help the cake rise; do not substitute.
Baking Soda (0.75 tsp) – Also for leavening; ensure it’s fresh; otherwise, omit.
Salt (0.5 tsp) – Enhances sweetness and balances flavors; omit for low-sodium diets.
Sour Cream (240g) – Improves moisture and adds tanginess; full-fat Greek yogurt can be a direct substitute.
Vegetable Oil (60g) – Enhances moisture and tenderness; can use melted coconut oil for a distinct flavor.
Vanilla Extract (1.5 tsp) – Adds sweetness and flavor depth; use vanilla bean paste for an intensified flavor.

For the Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

Butter (200g) – Provides richness and creamy texture; substitute similarly as for the cake.
Powdered Sugar (280g) – Sweetens frosting and creates a smooth texture; no substitutions recommended.
Dark Brown Sugar (30g) – Adds depth to frosting; light brown sugar can work just as well.
Cream Cheese (115g) – For a tangy, creamy frosting; vegan cream cheese can be used as an alternative.
Vanilla Bean Paste (0.5 tsp) – Enhances overall flavor; pure vanilla extract is a good substitute.

Create this Chai Cake and let each bite transport you to a world of cozy flavors!

How to Make Chai Cake

Preheat & Prepare: Preheat the oven to 170ºC (340ºF). Grease and line two 8-inch round baking pans with parchment paper to ensure easy removal later.
Mix Dry Ingredients: Sift together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, ground spices, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl. This will create a lovely, airy base for your chai cake.
Cream Butter & Sugars: In a mixing bowl, combine butter, granulated sugar, and dark brown sugar. Beat on medium speed for about 3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, building a rich foundation for the cake.
Add Eggs: Crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This step is essential for ensuring your cake has a wonderful structure.
Combine Dry & Wet Ingredients: Gradually mix in half of the dry ingredients. Once just combined, add the sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Finish with the remaining dry ingredients until the batter is smooth and well blended.
Pour & Bake: Evenly divide the batter between the prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 28-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let the cakes cool on a wire rack once out of the oven.
Make Frosting: For the frosting, cream together butter, powdered sugar, and dark brown sugar in a mixing bowl for 3 minutes. Then, add the cream cheese and vanilla bean paste, beating until smooth and creamy.
Assemble Cake: Once your cakes are cool, level the layers if needed. Spread a generous layer of frosting between each cake and around the sides and top. If desired, sprinkle with additional spices for decoration.

Optional: Drizzle with chai tea concentrate for an extra flavor kick!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Chai Cake

Fridge: Store the assembled Chai Cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures the cream cheese frosting remains fresh and creamy for your indulgent dessert.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unassembled cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting and serving.

Reheating: If you prefer a warm slice, gently reheat individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, ensuring not to overheat, as that can compromise the moisture of the cake.

Frosting Storage: Keep any leftover brown sugar cream cheese frosting in the fridge, sealed in an airtight container for up to a week; this way, you can enjoy it with fresh cake later or as a delightful spread!

Chai Cake Variations & Substitutions

Customize your Chai Cake with these delightful ideas that spark creativity and enhance flavors!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend as a one-to-one substitute for all-purpose flour for a diet-friendly twist.
Vegan Delight: Swap eggs with flax eggs and substitute sour cream with coconut yogurt for a delicious vegan chai cake.
Fox Spice: For a spicier treat, include a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes, elevating the cake's warmth.
Nutty Goodness: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for an unexpected crunch and rich flavor contrast to the spices.
Subtle Sweetness: Replace dark brown sugar with maple syrup for a lighter sweetness, giving the cake a unique flavor profile.
Dairy-Free Frosting: Opt for vegan cream cheese mixed with coconut cream to maintain that creamy texture while keeping it dairy-free.
Zesty Twist: Add a tablespoon of orange zest in the batter for a refreshing citrus note that complements the chai spices wonderfully.
Fruity Fun: Incorporate chopped dried fruits like apricots or figs for added sweetness and texture, turning your cake into a delightful fusion.

Your Chai Cake journey is only beginning—let your imagination run wild in the kitchen!

What to Serve with Chai Cake?

Creating the perfect atmosphere around your chai cake elevates the experience and brings warmth to every bite.

Spiced Chai Tea: This classic pairing accentuates the chai flavor in the cake, creating a harmonious and cozy vibe at any gathering. The aromatic spices in the tea meld beautifully with the cake's taste.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a silky texture that balances the spiced cake beautifully. The cold contrast against the warm cake is a delightful twist that your guests will adore.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each slice introduces a rich sweetness that contrasts perfectly with the spiced notes of the cake. It adds an indulgent touch that elevates every bite.
Pecan Pie Bars: The sweet, nutty flavors of pecan pie bars offer a delightful contrast to the chai cake. Together, they provide an assortment of textures, making it a festive dessert platter for parties.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad brightens up your dessert spread, with juicy fruits cutting through the richness of the cake. Think of tart berries and crisp apples to balance the sweetness!
Coffee: A steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee rounds out the sweetness of your dessert, offering a rich flavor that beautifully complements the spices in the cake. The bitter notes of coffee and sweet chai cake create an unforgettable duo.

Consider these delightful pairings to create a full and satisfying experience that leaves everyone craving more!

Expert Tips for Chai Cake

Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices elevate the chai flavor; be cautious with pre-ground spices as they can lose potency over time.
Check Doneness: The cake may look light on top; perform the toothpick test to ensure it's baked through.
Cool Properly: Allow your cake layers to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting; a warm cake can ruin the cream cheese frosting.
Mixing Technique: Avoid over-mixing the batter once adding flour; this helps maintain the cake's moist texture.
Flavor Customization: Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices; adjust the amount of cardamom or ginger according to your taste preference for your chai cake.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Chai Cake layers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cake itself up to 3 days in advance by baking it, then allowing it to cool completely before wrapping the layers tightly in plastic wrap. Simply refrigerate the wrapped cake to maintain its moisture and flavor. The brown sugar cream cheese frosting can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. When ready to assemble the cake, take the layers out, frost them, and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for that fresh, delicious taste. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have this stunning Chai Cake ready in no time!

Chai Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of chai spices should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! A combination of ground cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, and nutmeg creates that quintessential chai flavor. I recommend using freshly ground spices if possible, as they provide a more vibrant taste. Feel free to adjust the quantities to suit your personal preferences, perhaps adding a pinch more cinnamon for extra warmth.

How should I store my Chai Cake after baking?
After baking, store your assembled Chai Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep it fresh. This is particularly important because of the cream cheese frosting, which is best enjoyed cool. If you need to keep it longer, I suggest slicing and wrapping it tightly to preserve moisture.

Can I freeze my Chai Cake for future use?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Chai Cake, I recommend wrapping the unassembled cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to protect them from freezer burn. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and frost when fully defrosted.

I had trouble with my cake rising; what can I do differently next time?
Very! First, ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh, as expired leavening agents can prevent proper rising. Also, avoid over-mixing your batter once you add the dry ingredients, as this can lead to a denser texture. Make sure to measure your flour accurately; too much can cause the cake not to rise as expected.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for guests?
Absolutely! This Chai Cake contains gluten and dairy. For a dairy-free option, you can use coconut oil instead of butter and vegan cream cheese for the frosting. If you’re considering a gluten-free cake, simply use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Always check your spice mixes and sugar for any hidden allergens if you're serving anyone with special dietary needs.