If you’re a fan of cozy spices and creamy, comforting flavors, you are going to adore this Chai Latte Cake. This cake is a beautiful celebration of all the warm, fragrant spices that make chai tea so irresistible, baked right into a moist, tender cake and topped with luscious chai-infused frosting. Every bite brings the familiar, soothing taste of your favorite chai latte in cake form, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying with a steaming cup of tea on a chilly afternoon.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for this Chai Latte Cake is a breeze, and each one plays a special role to create the perfect balance of flavor, aroma, and texture. From the richly spiced flour mixture to the creamy butter and eggs that bring everything together, these components are what make this cake so special.

All-purpose flour: The sturdy base that gives the cake its tender crumb.
Baking powder and baking soda: Help the cake rise beautifully and stay light.
Salt: Enhances all the wonderful flavors without overpowering.
Warm spices (cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, nutmeg): The heart of the chai flavor, blending to create that inviting aroma.
Unsalted butter and vegetable oil: Together, they keep the cake moist and add richness.
Granulated and light brown sugar: Provide sweetness along with a subtle caramel depth.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients and add structure with a tender texture.
Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the spice profile.
Strong brewed chai tea: Infuses the cake with genuine chai flavor in liquid form.
Whole milk or buttermilk: Keeps the cake soft and moist with a slight tang.
For the frosting: Butter, powdered sugar, chai tea, vanilla, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt combine to make a creamy, fluffy, perfectly spiced chai latte frosting.

How to Make Chai Latte Cake

Step 1: Brew the Chai Tea

Start by brewing your chai tea strong and flavorful — this is the essence of your cake’s chai latte magic. Steep 2 to 3 chai tea bags in boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes, then let the tea cool completely. You’ll need separate portions for the batter and the frosting, so measure carefully now to set yourself up for smooth baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven, and get your cake pans ready—they’ll need a little butter or oil and parchment lining to prevent sticking. In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients, including all those wonderful chai spices that make this cake stand out. In a larger bowl, cream the butter, oil, and sugars until fluffy. Add eggs one by one, followed by vanilla.

Now comes the part where you bring it all together: add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture in thirds, alternating with the chai tea and milk. This keeps the batter light and ensures every bite is packed with flavor without becoming dense. Stir gently just until mixed—you want to avoid overworking it.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans. As the cake bakes, your kitchen will fill with the comforting scent of chai spices. Bake for the recommended time until a toothpick comes out clean. After removing from the oven, let your cakes cool a bit in the pans before transferring them to racks—patience here ensures a perfect crumb and a cake that’s easy to frost.

Step 4: Make the Chai Latte Frosting

While your cake cools completely, whip up the chai latte frosting. Beat the softened butter until creamy and pale, then slowly add the sifted powdered sugar to achieve a fluffy texture. Mix in the chai tea, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt—this frosting tastes like a cloud of chai goodness on top of your cake. Adjust the consistency with more sugar or chai tea until it’s just right for spreading.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Layer your cake by spreading frosting between the layers, then coat the entire cake in a smooth layer of frosting. For extra flair, you can dust the top with cinnamon or drizzle a chai glaze. The finished Chai Latte Cake is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a beautiful centerpiece for any gathering.

How to Serve Chai Latte Cake

Garnishes

A simple dusting of cinnamon or a sprinkle of crushed cardamom pods on top elevates the appearance and enhances the chai flavor in subtle ways. If you want to add texture, try garnishing with a few toasted nuts like almonds or pistachios for a light crunch.

Side Dishes

This cake is delightful on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a dollop of lightly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. A drizzle of honey or a small serving of fresh fruit like poached pears can complement the spiced richness of the cake beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning dessert spread, slice the Chai Latte Cake into petite squares and serve on an elegant platter with delicate chai-spiced tea or coffee alongside. You can also transform it into individual trifles by layering cake cubes with chai-spiced whipped cream and toasted nuts in pretty glasses for a playful twist that’s easy to serve at parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After baking and frosting your Chai Latte Cake, you can store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain moisture. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration for up to 5 days is advisable to keep the frosting fresh and the cake firm.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully if you want to prepare it in advance. Wrap individual cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. Frosted cakes can also be frozen, just be sure to cover them well to avoid freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

Although cakes are best served at room temperature, you can gently warm a slice of Chai Latte Cake in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to soften the buttercream slightly and enhance the cake’s fragrant spices. Just be careful not to overheat and dry it out.

FAQs

Can I use chai concentrate instead of brewed chai tea?

Absolutely! Using chai concentrate will intensify the chai flavor in both the batter and the frosting. Just adjust the quantity slightly to avoid adding too much liquid and affecting the cake’s texture.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. To get the best results, look for one that contains xanthan gum or add a teaspoon yourself to help maintain structure.

Can I use a different type of milk?

Whole milk or buttermilk is recommended for the best moisture and flavor balance, but you can use any milk substitute like almond or oat milk. Just keep in mind this may slightly alter the flavor and texture.

How long does the chai latte frosting keep?

When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the chai latte frosting will stay fresh for up to one week. Let it come to room temperature and give it a quick whip before using if it becomes firm.

Can I make this cake vegan?

With a few swaps, you can make a vegan version by using plant-based butter, flax or chia eggs, and a plant-based milk. Be mindful to check your chai tea ingredients for any dairy-derived components.

Final Thoughts

This Chai Latte Cake is a warm hug on a plate, a perfect pairing for your tea time or a charming dessert for friends and family. Its cozy, spiced flavors and creamy frosting make it a standout choice anytime you crave something both comforting and special. I can’t wait for you to try baking this at home and create delicious memories with each slice.