Name: Chai Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 180 g butter, room temperature; 150 g granulated sugar; 150 g dark brown sugar; 4 large eggs, room temperature; 330 g all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon ground cardamom; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1 ½ teaspoon ground ginger; ½ teaspoon ground allspice; ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; ¾ teaspoon baking powder; ¾ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 240 g sour cream, room temperature; 60 g vegetable oil (e.g., canola oil); 1 ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; 200 g butter, room temperature; 280 g powdered sugar; 30 g dark brown sugar; 115 g full-fat cream cheese, room temperature; ½ teaspoon vanilla bean paste

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 15 reviews

If you have ever dreamed of a cake that wraps you up in a cozy hug of warm spices and luscious frosting, then this Chai Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine moist, aromatic chai-infused layers perfectly balanced with a velvety, decadent brown sugar cream cheese frosting that melts in your mouth. This dessert is truly a celebration of comforting flavors that feel like home, perfect for sharing with friends or treating yourself to something extraordinary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up image of a light brown, smooth batter with small darker specks mixed evenly, resting inside a large speckled white mixing bowl. The batter fills the bowl partially, showing its thick and creamy texture with gentle swirls on the surface. The bowl sits on a white marbled textured surface with some batter traces on the bowl's inner sides. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this cake lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect texture, rich flavor, and that irresistible chai spice warmth. From fragrant cardamom to the deep sweetness of brown sugar, the ingredients come together to create something magical.

Butter (180 g): Adds richness and moisture, helping create a tender crumb in the chai cake.
Granulated sugar (150 g): Provides sweetness and helps with the cake’s structure.
Dark brown sugar (150 g + 30 g for frosting): Imparts a deep molasses flavor that elevates both cake and frosting.
Eggs (4 large): Bind ingredients and add to the cake’s soft texture and lift.
All-purpose flour (330 g): The base of the cake, giving it the right density and tenderness.
Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Keeps the cake light and delicate.
Spices – ground cardamom (1 tbsp), cinnamon (1 tbsp), ginger (1 ½ tsp), allspice (½ tsp), nutmeg (½ tsp), black pepper (¼ tsp): The soul of the chai flavor, each spice adding a layer of warmth and complexity.
Baking powder (¾ tsp) and baking soda (¾ tsp): Leavening agents that ensure the cake rises beautifully.
Salt (½ tsp): Balances the sweetness and enhances the spice notes.
Sour cream (240 g): Introduces moisture and tenderness, making the cake superbly soft.
Vegetable oil (60 g): Keeps the cake moist and fresh longer.
Vanilla extract (1 ½ tsp) and vanilla bean paste (½ tsp): Adds subtle sweetness and depth, especially in the frosting.
Powdered sugar (280 g): Sweetens and thickens the cream cheese frosting smoothly.
Full-fat cream cheese (115 g): Creates the luscious, tangy brown sugar cream cheese frosting that perfectly balances the chai spices.

How to Make Chai Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 170ºC (340ºF) and lining two 20 cm (8 inch) baking pans with parchment paper. Then, sift together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and every enchanting chai spice listed—cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg, black pepper—along with baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Sifting these dry ingredients not only ensures there are no lumps but also evenly distributes your aromatic spices so every bite bursts with chai flavor.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl or your stand mixer, beat the room-temperature butter together with granulated sugar and dark brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This takes about three minutes on medium-high speed. This step is essential to trap air, which helps the cake rise and gives it that delightful light texture.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This slow addition helps maintain the airiness of your batter and ensures the cake’s structure remains stable and moist.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Working gently, add half of the sifted dry ingredients into the batter on low speed until just combined. Then mix in the sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract – these rich, moist ingredients create a tender crumb that melts in the mouth. Finally, fold in the remaining flour mixture carefully so you don’t overwork the batter. The secret to a perfect chai cake lies in this gentle mixing to keep it light.

Step 5: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between your two prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Bake for 28 to 30 minutes, but remember this cake stays pale as it bakes, so don’t rely on color! Instead, use a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center of the cake—it should come out clean when the cake is done. Cool the layers on a rack and remove them from the pans after five minutes to prevent soggy edges.

Step 6: Make Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cake cools, prepare your frosting. If you live somewhere humid, gently blot your cream cheese with paper towels to remove excess moisture for a firmer frosting. Beat butter together with powdered sugar and dark brown sugar until luxuriously creamy and fluffy—about three minutes. Add in the vanilla bean paste and cream cheese, mixing just until smooth to maintain that rich, tangy balance.

Step 7: Assemble the Chai Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Trim the tops of the cooled cake layers for a flat surface if needed. Place the first layer on your cake board or serving plate, spread a generous portion of frosting evenly, then add the second layer on top. Frost the entire cake with a thin crumb coat, scraping the sides for a rustic naked cake appearance. Finish with a dusting of cinnamon or decorate with star anise and cinnamon sticks for an inviting presentation that hints at the spices inside.

How to Serve Chai Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

A two-layer brown sponge cake with visible soft texture is shown with a thick white cream layer between the two sponge layers and a smooth layer of white cream on top. The cake is set on parchment paper placed on a wooden stand, with some brown powder lightly dusted on the top cream layer and a small piece of star anise visible on the top left edge. The background is simple with a white marbled surface and a subtle beige tone behind, showing part of a glass in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance your chai cake’s appearance and flavor by garnishing it with warm, aromatic elements like a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, a few whole star anise pods, or cinnamon sticks. These touches give your cake a sophisticated, festive look and amplify its inviting chai aroma that will enchant everyone in the room.

Side Dishes

Pair your chai cake with simple accompaniments to complement its intrepid flavors. A warm cup of chai tea, black coffee, or even lightly steamed milk can harmonize beautifully. For those wanting a fresh counterbalance, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly whipped cream works wonders by adding a cool, creamy contrast to the spiced layers.

Creative Ways to Present

Beyond the classic cake presentation, try slicing this chai cake into small squares or layering individual servings in clear dessert glasses, alternating cake pieces with frosting layers for an elegant parfait effect. You could also dust the frosting with cocoa powder or drizzle spiced caramel sauce for an extra indulgent twist that will impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover chai cake keeps well stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days. This chilling actually helps the flavors meld beautifully, but be sure to let the cake come to room temperature before serving to fully enjoy its moist texture and creamy frosting.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze the cake layers wrapped securely in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to protect them from freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy the cake, thaw the layers overnight in the fridge and then bring to room temperature before frosting and serving.

Reheating

Since this is a moist, spiced cake best enjoyed at room temperature, gentle warming isn’t necessary. However, if you prefer a warm slice, briefly microwave a piece for 10 to 15 seconds on low power. Avoid overheating, especially because of the cream cheese frosting which can soften too much or separate.

FAQs

Can I make this chai cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that is suitable for baking. You may need to adjust the flour quantities slightly to get the same batter texture, and adding a binding agent like xanthan gum can help maintain the cake’s structure.

Is it necessary to use all those spices?

While the variety of spices makes this cake truly special, you can customize the chai spice blend according to your preference. Cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger are must-haves for the classic chai flavor, but you can reduce or omit the allspice, nutmeg, or black pepper depending on your taste.

Can I prepare the frosting in advance?

Yes, you can make the brown sugar cream cheese frosting a day ahead. Store it tightly covered in the fridge and give it a good stir or gentle beat before frosting your cake to bring back its fluffy texture.

What is the best way to measure ingredients for this recipe?

We highly recommend using a digital kitchen scale to weigh your ingredients in grams. This ensures accuracy, consistency, and the best results every time you bake the Chai Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe.

Can I substitute sour cream with yogurt?

Yes, plain full-fat Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream. It will maintain the moist texture of the cake while adding a slight tanginess that complements the spices nicely.

Final Thoughts

This Chai Cake with Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience that captures the essence of warmth and comfort in every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something delightful and different, this cake promises to wow your taste buds and bring smiles around your table. Don’t hesitate to give it a try—you deserve a slice of this spiced paradise!