Chai Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Bring the warmth of chai into your baking with this irresistibly spiced Chai Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. Infused with a blend of aromatic spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger, this cake is moist, fluffy, and perfectly balanced by a tangy, creamy frosting. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy afternoon treat, this cake delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Warm, Aromatic Flavors – Classic chai spices give depth and warmth.
Moist & Tender Crumb – Perfectly soft texture that stays fresh for days.
Luscious Frosting – Cream cheese adds tangy contrast to the sweet spice.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Elegant enough for celebrations, easy enough for everyday baking.
Customizable – Make it as a layer cake, sheet cake, or cupcakes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chai Spice Cake:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground cardamom
• ½ tsp ground ginger
• ¼ tsp ground cloves
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar, let sit 5 mins)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Optional Toppings:
• Ground cinnamon or chai spice blend
• Candied ginger pieces
• Chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)

Tools You’ll Need
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk and spatula
• Electric mixer
• 9×13-inch pan or two 8-inch round pans
• Cooling rack
• Offset spatula (for frosting)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare Pans

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour your baking pan(s), or line with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and all spices.
2. This chai spice mix creates a beautifully aromatic base.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

1. In another bowl, whisk together brown sugar, granulated sugar, oil, eggs, vanilla, and buttermilk until well combined and smooth.

Step 4: Combine & Mix

1. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
2. Do not overmix—stop when no streaks of flour remain.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s) and smooth the top.
2. Bake for 28–32 minutes (for 9×13-inch) or 22–26 minutes (for round pans), or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Let cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy.
2. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Beat until light and creamy.
3. If too thick, add a teaspoon of milk at a time to loosen.

Step 7: Frost & Decorate

1. Spread frosting evenly over the cooled cake using a spatula.
2. Sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon or extra chai spice for decoration.
3. Garnish with candied ginger or chopped nuts if desired.

Step 8: Slice & Serve

1. Slice and enjoy with a cup of chai tea or coffee.
2. This cake is delicious fresh or even better the next day.

Tips for the Best Chai Spice Cake
Use Room Temp Ingredients – Helps everything mix smoothly.
Don’t Overmix – For a soft, tender crumb.
Cool Completely Before Frosting – Warm cake will melt the frosting.
Customize the Spices – Adjust spice levels to your taste preference.
Double the Recipe – For a layered celebration cake.

Serving Suggestions
• With Hot Drinks – Perfect with chai, coffee, or spiced hot chocolate.
• Holiday Dessert Table – A great seasonal alternative to pumpkin or carrot cake.
• Afternoon Treat – Enjoy a slice with your favorite book or show.
• Brunch Spread – Serve alongside fruit, yogurt, and granola.

How to Store & Freeze

Storing:
Room Temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerate: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days (best for frosted cake). Bring to room temp before serving.

Freezing:
• Freeze unfrosted layers wrapped tightly in plastic and foil for up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting and serving.

Reheating:
Microwave: Warm slices for 10–15 seconds for a fresh-from-the-oven feel.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use plant-based milk and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for frosting.

2. Can I turn this into cupcakes?
Absolutely. Bake at 350°F for 18–20 minutes. Makes about 18 cupcakes.

3. What’s the best substitute for buttermilk?
Mix 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar with 1 cup of any milk and let it sit for 5 minutes.

4. Can I use a spice blend?
Yes, use a pre-made chai spice or pumpkin pie spice if you prefer convenience.

Final Thoughts
This Chai Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is an indulgent, cozy bake perfect for fall or anytime you’re craving something warm and spiced. Moist, flavorful, and easy to make, it’s a crowd-pleaser that feels both familiar and unique. Whether it’s for a special celebration or a quiet treat, this cake is always a good idea.

Bake it today and share your spiced creations—tag and review to inspire other bakers!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 of 12):
Calories: 340 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 42g | Fat: 18g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 280mg

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