Brown Sugar Chai Cake

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that warms your heart and fills your home with cozy aromas, then this Brown Sugar Chai Cake is just what you need! This cake is a beautiful blend of spices that dances on your palate, making it an absolute favorite in my kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a gathering with friends or simply treating your family on a busy weeknight, this cake brings joy to every occasion.

What makes this recipe even more special is its simplicity. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create two moist layers that are generously frosted with a sweet and tangy cream cheese frosting. Trust me, once you take your first bite, you’ll understand why this Brown Sugar Chai Cake has become a staple in my baking repertoire!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip this up with confidence!
• Perfect for gatherings: This cake serves 20, making it ideal for parties, potlucks, and family get-togethers.
• Deliciously spiced: The warm spices create an irresistible flavor that everyone will adore.
• Make-ahead friendly: Bake it a day or two in advance; it tastes even better after the flavors meld together.
• Family-approved: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Brown Sugar Chai Cake uses simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delicious treat!

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)

Variations

One of the best things about this Brown Sugar Chai Cake is how flexible it can be! Feel free to experiment with different flavors or ingredients to make it your own.

• Add nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for some added crunch.
• Try a different frosting: Swap out the cream cheese frosting for whipped coconut cream for a lighter touch.
• Turn it into cupcakes: Use the same batter to bake individual chai cupcakes; perfect for portion control!
• Mix in fruit: Add some chopped apples or pears into the batter for a fruity twist.

How to Make Brown Sugar Chai Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pans

Start by greasing and lining two round cake pans with parchment paper. This will ensure that your cakes come out easily without sticking. Preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) is also crucial at this stage so it’s ready when you’re done mixing.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, dark brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and all those beautiful spices. This step is important because mixing these dry ingredients ensures an even distribution of flavor throughout the cake.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat together the room temperature butter and dark brown sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cake its lovely texture. Once combined, add in the eggs one at a time followed by vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix in the dry ingredients with whole milk until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix – we want our cake to stay tender and moist!

Step 5: Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pans and bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. It’s exciting watching them rise beautifully in the oven!

Step 6: Cool and Frost

Once baked, allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting them. While they cool, whip up your cream cheese frosting by blending softened butter and cold cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar until you reach your desired sweetness.

Step 7: Assemble Your Cake

Place one layer on a serving platter, spread a generous amount of frosting on top, then gently place the second layer over it. Finish by spreading frosting over the top and sides of the cake.

And there you have it! A stunning Brown Sugar Chai Cake ready to impress your friends and family. Enjoy every delicious slice!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Sugar Chai Cake

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and with a few handy tips, you can ensure your Brown Sugar Chai Cake turns out perfect every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps in achieving a smoother batter, ensuring even mixing and better texture for your cake layers.
• Don’t skip the sifting: Sifting the flour and powdered sugar helps to eliminate lumps and incorporates air, resulting in a lighter cake and fluffier frosting.
• Measure accurately: Using a kitchen scale to weigh your ingredients ensures accuracy, which is crucial for baking success. Even minor variations can impact the final product.
• Cool completely before frosting: Allowing your cake layers to cool entirely prevents the cream cheese frosting from melting, giving you that beautiful, clean finish.
• Mix spices well: Make sure to combine all the spices thoroughly before adding them to the batter; this ensures an even distribution of flavors throughout your cake.

How to Serve Brown Sugar Chai Cake

Presenting your Brown Sugar Chai Cake beautifully can make it even more enjoyable! Here are some ideas to elevate your serving experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the frosting for a delightful crunch and added flavor.
• Cinnamon dusting: A light sprinkle of cinnamon over the top adds a warm aroma and enhances the chai flavor profile.
• Edible flowers: Consider garnishing with edible flowers for a pop of color that transforms your cake into an elegant centerpiece.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A light fruit salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cake. Use seasonal fruits like berries or citrus for brightness.
• Vanilla ice cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream served alongside offers a delightful temperature contrast and enhances the cake’s warm spices.
• Spiced chai tea: Brewed spiced chai tea complements the flavors in your cake perfectly. Serve it warm for an inviting touch.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, whipped coconut cream adds sweetness and richness without overpowering the cake’s flavors.

Enjoy creating this cozy dessert experience with your Brown Sugar Chai Cake! It’s perfect for gatherings or simply as a sweet treat at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Brown Sugar Chai Cake is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time on busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake where it can last up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the cake into individual portions.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw slices of cake in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• For a quick reheat, place the slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Have questions about making this delightful dessert? Here are some common queries!

Can I use different spices in my Brown Sugar Chai Cake?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the spice blend according to your tastes. You can add more cinnamon or even include a dash of nutmeg if you prefer.

How long does the Brown Sugar Chai Cake stay fresh?

When stored properly, this cake can remain fresh for about 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. Just make sure it’s covered!

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that works well in baking. Just keep an eye on the texture when mixing.

What can I serve with Brown Sugar Chai Cake?

This cake is delicious on its own, but you could also pair it with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream or serve alongside a warm cup of chai tea for an extra cozy touch.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Brown Sugar Chai Cake! It’s a special treat that brings warmth and sweetness into any gathering. With its rich flavors and lovely texture, it’s bound to impress your friends and family alike. Happy baking, and enjoy every slice!