Name: Brown Sugar Chai Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 390 g all-purpose flour; 320 g dark brown sugar; 15 g baking powder; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 tbsp cinnamon; 2 tsp cardamom; 1 tsp ginger; 1 tsp allspice; 1 tsp nutmeg; 1 tsp cloves; 140 g unsalted butter (room temp); 100 g neutral oil; 283 g whole milk (room temp); 2 eggs (room temp); 1 tbsp vanilla extract; 227 g unsalted butter (room temp) for frosting; 340 g powdered sugar (sifted); 12 oz cream cheese (cold) for frosting

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When was the last time a cake captivated your senses and transported you to a cozy café on a chilly afternoon? If you’re searching for a delicious dessert that embodies warmth and comfort, look no further than the Brown Sugar Chai Cake. This cake isn’t just any standard dessert; it combines the rich flavors of dark brown sugar with the aromatic spices of chai, making it a delightful treat for gatherings or a cozy night in.

Ingredients Needed

For this delicious Brown Sugar Chai Cake, you will need the following ingredients:

390 g all-purpose flour: Adds structure and tenderness to the cake.
320 g dark brown sugar: Enhances richness and provides a deep caramel flavor.
15 g baking powder: Helps the cake rise to perfection.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
1 tbsp cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth.
2 tsp cardamom: Contributes a unique spice that is characteristic of chai.
1 tsp ginger: Provides a touch of warmth and zest.
1 tsp allspice: Adds a complex flavor profile.
1 tsp nutmeg: Gives a comforting aroma.
1 tsp cloves: Offers a strong, aromatic kick.
140 g unsalted butter (room temp): For moisture and richness.
100 g neutral oil: Enhances moisture without altering flavor.
283 g whole milk (room temp): Contributes to the cake’s fluffiness.
2 eggs (room temp): Acts as a binding agent.
1 tbsp vanilla extract: For a sweet, aromatic touch.

For the cream cheese frosting, you’ll need:

227 g unsalted butter (room temp): For a creamy texture.
12 oz cream cheese (cold): Gives the frosting a tangy depth.
340 g powdered sugar (sifted): Sweetens the frosting and adds smoothness.

Substitutions:

For a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat flour or coconut sugar as alternatives.

Timing

The total time required for making this Brown Sugar Chai Cake is approximately 90 minutes, which is about 20% less time than many traditional cake recipes that can take over an hour alone for baking. Here’s a breakdown:

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Cooling Time: 30 minutes

How to Make Brown Sugar Chai Cake

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is a crucial first step—ensures that your cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the baking pans

Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal.

Step 3: Mix dry ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and all the spices (cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, allspice, nutmeg, and cloves). This allows for even distribution of flavors.

Step 4: Cream your fats and sugars

In another bowl, beat the unsalted butter and dark brown sugar until light and fluffy. This process typically takes about 3-5 minutes. The more air you incorporate, the lighter your cake will be.

Step 5: Combine wet ingredients

Add the neutral oil, room-temperature eggs, milk, and vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 6: Combine wet and dry mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this ensures a tender cake.

Step 7: Bake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool the cakes

After baking, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Prepare the frosting

While the cakes are cooling, make the cream cheese frosting by beating the room-temperature butter and cold cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and mix until creamy.

Step 10: Assemble the cake

Once cooled, place one layer of cake on a serving dish, spread a layer of cream cheese frosting, and top with the second layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake and decorate as desired.

Nutritional Information

This scrumptious Brown Sugar Chai Cake serves about 12 slices. Each slice contains approximately:

Calories: 410
Protein: 4 g
Fat: 22 g
Carbohydrates: 52 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugars: 32 g

These stats bring you deliciousness with every bite while maintaining moderation.

Healthier Alternatives For Brown Sugar Chai Cake

If you’re looking for ways to make this cake a bit healthier, consider the following options:

Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with almond or oat flour for added nutrients.
Use Greek yogurt in place of some of the cream cheese in the frosting for fewer calories and more protein.
Opt for natural sweeteners, like honey or maple syrup, instead of brown sugar.

Serving Suggestions

This delightful cake pairs beautifully with:

A warm cup of chai or tea.
Fresh fruits such as berries or pears for a refreshing contrast.
A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an indulgent treat.

For an extra touch, consider garnishing with sprigs of mint or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Overmixing the batter: This leads to a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a light texture.
Incorrect oven temperature: Ensure you preheat adequately; ovens can vary!
Using cold eggs or milk: Room-temperature ingredients mix more easily.

Storing Tips For Brown Sugar Chai Cake

At Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to three days.
In the Refrigerator: Keep it chilled for up to a week, as the cream cheese frosting is best refrigerated.
Freezing: The cake can be frozen for up to three months. Wrap it tightly and thaw in the refrigerator when needed.

Conclusion

In summary, the Brown Sugar Chai Cake is a wonderful blend of comforting flavors that can enhance any occasion. It’s not just about taste but also about the experience of baking, sharing, and enjoying. So why not try making this delightful cake today and let us know how it turned out? Share your baking journey, tips, and feedback in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make my Brown Sugar Chai Cake more moist?

One simple trick is to ensure your eggs and milk are at room temperature. Also, consider adding an extra tablespoon of oil for added moisture.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake and frost your cake a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.

What if I don’t have all the spices?

If you’re short on some spices, you can use chai spice blends available in stores or try homemade blends.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

You can adapt this recipe easily by using gluten-free all-purpose flour. Just ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free.

Can I substitute butter for oil?

While you can substitute butter with oil, your cake may have a different texture than intended. Both add moisture but offer distinct flavors.

Now, armed with this delightful recipe, it’s time to bring some cozy sweetness into your life with a homemade Brown Sugar Chai Cake!