Chai Cake

The Chai Cake is a delightful treat that brings warmth and comfort in every bite. It features layers of moist, spiced cake that are perfectly complemented by a rich brown sugar cream cheese frosting. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience perfect for any celebration, from cozy family gatherings to festive parties. With its unique blend of spices and creamy frosting, this chai cake will surely impress your guests and leave them craving more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of warm spices like cardamom and cinnamon creates an inviting aroma and taste that captures the essence of chai.
• Moist Texture: Thanks to the use of sour cream and butter, each slice is incredibly moist, making it hard to resist just one piece.
• Versatile Occasion: Whether for birthdays, holidays, or a simple afternoon treat, this chai cake fits perfectly into any occasion.
• Easy to Make: The straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Elegant Presentation: Layered with smooth frosting, this cake not only tastes great but looks stunning on any dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious Chai Cake, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help ensure your baking process is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• 9-inch round cake pans

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugars together, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success; these tools help ensure perfect proportions.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for folding ingredients gently without deflating the batter, ensuring a light cake.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 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 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp ground cardamom
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 1 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• ½ tsp ground allspice
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper
• 3/4 tsp baking powder
• 3/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 240 g sour cream (room temperature)
• 60 g vegetable oil (e.g. canola oil)
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Frosting

• 200 g butter (room temperature)
• 280 g powdered sugar
• 30 g dark brown sugar
• 115 g full-fat cream cheese (room temperature)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla bean paste

How to Make Chai Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or cooking spray.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and all the spices. Whisk until well combined.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In another bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the room temperature butter, granulated sugar, and dark brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture while alternating with sour cream. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 6: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow cooling in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Step 7: Prepare the Frosting

While the cakes cool, prepare your frosting by beating together room temperature butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and dark brown sugar until combined. Finish with vanilla bean paste.

Step 8: Assemble Your Chai Cake

Once cooled completely, place one layer on your serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top before placing the second layer over it. Frost the top and sides as desired.

Now enjoy your homemade Chai Cake!

How to Serve Chai Cake

Chai Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to impress guests or enjoy a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your Chai Cake experience.

With a Cup of Tea

• Pair your Chai Cake with a steaming cup of chai tea for a harmonious flavor match.

A La Mode

• Top each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess complements the spices beautifully.

Fresh Berries

• Serve with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries. Their tartness balances the sweetness of the cake.

Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra richness and texture.

Nuts and Seeds

• Sprinkle chopped nuts or seeds, such as almonds or walnuts, for added crunch and flavor.

How to Perfect Chai Cake

To ensure your Chai Cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allow eggs, butter, and sour cream to reach room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Measure flour correctly: Spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off for accurate measurements.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix until just combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.

• Check doneness early: Start checking your cake 5-10 minutes before the recommended baking time to avoid overbaking.

• Cool properly: Allow the cake layers to cool completely in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack.

Best Side Dishes for Chai Cake

Chai Cake pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Spiced Nuts
   Roasted spiced nuts add a crunchy texture and complement the warm spices in the cake.

2. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits brightens up the dessert experience.

3. Chocolate Ganache
   Drizzling warm chocolate ganache over slices adds richness and decadence.

4. Caramel Sauce
   Pouring homemade caramel sauce on top provides an irresistible sweet contrast.

5. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses can balance out the sweetness of the cake, offering savory bites alongside dessert.

6. Coffee
   A rich cup of coffee enhances the chai flavors while providing a caffeine boost perfect for an afternoon treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Chai Cake can be delightful, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Incorrect Ingredient Temperature: Using cold eggs or butter can lead to uneven mixing. Ensure all ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too long can make the cake dense. Mix until just combined to keep your Chai Cake light and fluffy.
• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Scooping flour directly from the bag can add too much. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements.
• Skipping the Spice Measurement: Chai flavor comes from spices; don’t skip or underestimate them. Measure spices carefully for the perfect balance of flavor.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: An oven that’s too hot can burn the outside while leaving the inside raw. Always preheat and use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chai Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chai Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
• Chai Cake can be frozen for up to 3 months without compromising flavor.

Reheating Chai Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover with a lid, and warm each slice for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chai Cake.

What makes Chai Cake unique?

Chai Cake is infused with warm spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger, giving it a cozy flavor reminiscent of chai tea.

Can I use alternative flours in my Chai Cake?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with almond flour or whole wheat flour, but you may need to adjust liquid ingredients for consistency.

How can I customize my Chai Cake?

You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans, or mix in raisins or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for special occasions?

Absolutely! The rich flavors and beautiful frosting make it perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration.

How do I ensure my cake rises properly?

Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh. Also, don’t open the oven door frequently while baking.

Final Thoughts

This delectable Chai Cake is not only rich in flavor but also versatile enough for various occasions. Its moist texture combined with creamy frosting makes it irresistible. Feel free to customize it further by adding your favorite mix-ins like nuts or dried fruits. Enjoy baking this delightful treat!