Brown Sugar Chai Cake: 12 Irresistible Steps to Delight

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Brown Sugar Chai Cake is a delightful dessert that infuses your kitchen with the warm, inviting aromas of spices and sweetness. As you prepare this cake, you’ll experience the delightful mix of cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger, reminiscent of a cozy chai tea. This cake is perfect for gatherings, tea time, or simply an indulgent treat for yourself.

Why You’ll Love This Brown Sugar Chai Cake

This cake is a true crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, the use of dark brown sugar in this spiced brown sugar cake recipe not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the cake moist. Second, the combination of chai spices creates a unique taste that sets it apart from traditional cakes. Third, it’s versatile as it can be served as a dessert or a sweet treat during tea time. Fourth, the creamy frosting elevates the flavor profile, making it a favorite among friends and family. Plus, it’s an easy brown sugar chai cake recipe that doesn’t require advanced baking skills. Lastly, it’s vegetarian-friendly, making it suitable for various diets.

Ingredients for Brown Sugar Chai Cake

Gather these items:

390 g all-purpose flour
320 g dark brown sugar
15 g baking powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 tablespoon cinnamon
2 teaspoons cardamom
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon allspice
1 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon cloves
140 g unsalted butter
100 g neutral oil
283 g whole milk
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
227 g unsalted butter (for frosting)
340 g powdered sugar
340 g cream cheese

How to Make Brown Sugar Chai Cake Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 325°F and prepare two 9-inch cake pans by greasing and lining them with parchment paper.
Step 2: Soak the cake strips in cold water.
Step 3: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and spices.
Step 4: Cut the butter into small cubes and add it to the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Step 5: Add the oil, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined, but do not over-mix.
Step 6: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Wrap the soaked cake strips around the sides of the pans.
Step 7: Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool on a wire rack.
Step 8: Once cooled, wrap the cakes in plastic wrap and freeze them for at least 2 hours. This helps the frosting go on more smoothly.
Step 9: For the frosting, beat the butter and cream cheese on high speed until smooth.
Step 10: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, mixing on low until fully combined. Continue mixing until the frosting is smooth and free from lumps.
Step 11: Place the first cake layer on a cake stand and spread a thin layer of frosting on top. Add the second cake layer and spread frosting evenly over the top and sides.
Step 12: Decorate the cake as desired, sprinkling a little cinnamon on top before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Brown Sugar Chai Cake

Keep these in mind:

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing for a smoother batter.
Use high-quality spices for the best flavor in your chai spiced cake.
To prevent the cake from doming, wrap cake strips soaked in water around the pans before baking.
Let the cake layers cool completely for easier frosting application.

Best Ways to Serve Brown Sugar Chai Cake

This delicious cake can be served in various ways. Consider pairing it with a cup of chai tea for a complete experience. For a festive touch, serve it with a drizzle of caramel sauce or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This brown sugar chai dessert is perfect for any gathering or as a sweet treat on a quiet afternoon.

How to Store and Reheat Brown Sugar Chai Cake

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it fresh longer, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to three months. When ready to serve, let it thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for a few seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions About Brown Sugar Chai Cake

What’s the secret to perfect Brown Sugar Chai Cake?

The secret lies in using quality brown sugar and fresh spices, which enhance the flavor and moisture of the cake. Additionally, allowing the cake to cool before frosting ensures a smooth finish.

Can I make Brown Sugar Chai Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day or two in advance and store them in the fridge. Just frost it before serving for the best taste.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Brown Sugar Chai Cake?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you measure your ingredients accurately and don’t over-mix the batter. Following the baking time closely will also help achieve the right texture.

Variations of Brown Sugar Chai Cake You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with this recipe! You can try a gluten-free brown sugar chai cake recipe by substituting regular flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend. For a unique twist, make a brown sugar chai bundt cake by using a bundt pan instead of round cake pans. Another option is to add caramelized brown sugar or even a layer of chai-flavored frosting to enhance the chai experience.