Why You’ll Love Brown Sugar Chai Cake Recipe

This chai cake delivers the perfect blend of sweetness and spice with every bite. The brown sugar base keeps the crumb ultra moist, while a blend of chai spices adds depth and warmth. Topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, it’s a dessert that feels both comforting and elegant.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the brown sugar chai cake:
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 temperature
100 g neutral oil
283 g whole milk, room temperature
2 eggs, room temperature
1 tbsp vanilla extract

For the cream cheese frosting:
227 g unsalted butter, room temperature
12 oz cream cheese, cold
340 g powdered sugar, sifted

Directions

Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and line two 9‑inch cake pans with parchment paper.
In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and all chai spices.
Add cubed butter to the dry ingredients and mix on low speed until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Add the oil, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix on low to medium speed until just combined.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Wrap baking strips around the outside of the pans if you have them.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely on a rack.
To make the frosting, beat butter and cold cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat on low until fully combined and creamy.
Assemble the cake by placing one layer on a serving plate, spreading an even layer of frosting, topping with the second layer, and finishing with frosting all over.

Servings and timing

Servings: 20 slices
Prep time: about 1 hour
Cook time: about 35 minutes
Total time: about 1 hour 35 minutes

Variations

Spiced Buttercream: Substitute the cream cheese frosting with a chai‑spiced buttercream using ground cardamom and cinnamon.
Chai Infusion: Warm the milk and steep a chai tea bag before adding it to the batter for a stronger tea flavor.
Cupcake Version: Bake the batter as cupcakes instead of a layer cake; reduce baking time accordingly.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze individual slices wrapped well in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

FAQs

What makes this a chai cake?

Chai cake gets its characteristic flavor from a blend of warm spices like cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, allspice, and nutmeg, similar to those found in masala chai tea.

Can I use a store‑bought chai spice blend?

Yes, you can substitute individual spices with a pre‑made chai spice mix to simplify the recipe.

Can I make this cake dairy‑free?

You can substitute dairy milk for a plant‑based alternative and use dairy‑free butter and cream cheese for the frosting. The texture may vary slightly.

How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Can I make this gluten‑free?

Yes, swap the all‑purpose flour for a gluten‑free baking blend, and adjust baking time as needed.

Is chai cake good without frosting?

Absolutely—this spiced cake tastes delicious on its own or lightly dusted with powdered sugar.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, doubling the ingredients will work if you have enough pans and oven space.

How should I serve this cake?

Serve at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.

Can I add extra spices?

Feel free to increase or tweak the spices according to your preference for a stronger chai flavor.

Can I use this batter for cupcakes?

Yes, this batter works well for cupcakes; bake for about 18–22 minutes at the same temperature.

Conclusion

This brown sugar chai cake is a delightful dessert that marries the rich, warm flavors of chai spices with a moist cake base and creamy frosting. Whether you’re baking for a festive occasion or simply craving something comforting and spiced, this recipe delivers depth of flavor and irresistible texture.