What is the easiest way to make a chai cake?

The easiest way to make a chai cake is by using a chai cake box mix and adding your favorite spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger. You can also pair it with a chai cake with cream cheese frosting to enhance flavor. This method creates a quick, moist chai cake that’s perfect for family gatherings or tea time.

How do I make a moist masala chai cake from scratch?

To make a moist masala chai cake, use all-purpose flour, eggs, and yogurt or milk for tenderness. Brewed chai or spiced tea gives it authentic Indian chai flavor. Mix in ground cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves to intensify the masala chai cake taste. Bake until a toothpick comes out clean and top with a chai cake with cream cheese frosting for added richness.

Can I customize my chai cake flavors?

Yes, this easy chai cake recipe is highly customizable. You can adjust the spice levels, add nuts like pistachios or almonds, or even fold in chocolate chips. Try variations like a vanilla chai cake or a spiced masala chai cake to suit different preferences. The chai cake with cream cheese frosting pairs well with any variation.

Is this chai cake recipe suitable for busy weeknights?

Absolutely. This easy chai cake is quick to prepare and bake, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dessert needs. You can even use a chai cake box mix to save time while still enjoying a moist, flavorful masala chai cake that’s perfect for sharing with family.

Chai Cake Recipe – Easy, Moist, and Spiced 2026

Name: Chai Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 75 min
Yield: 8-10 servings
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon ground cardamom; ½ teaspoon ground ginger; ½ teaspoon ground cloves (optional); 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup brewed chai, cooled (or strong black tea with chai spices); ¾ cup whole milk or yogurt; 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese or buttercream frosting, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2–3 tablespoons milk to adjust consistency; Ground cinnamon or chai powder for dusting (optional); Crushed nuts (almonds or pistachios) (optional); Edible flowers for garnish (optional)

Description

A moist, spiced chai cake infused with warm masala flavors like cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger, topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for tea time, special occasions, or cozy evenings, this cake delivers the classic taste of Indian chai in every bite.

Ingredients

🛒 Ingredients (for one 9-inch round cake):

For the Cake:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground cardamom
½ teaspoon ground ginger
½ teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup brewed chai, cooled (or strong black tea with chai spices)
¾ cup whole milk or yogurt

For the Frosting:

16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese or buttercream frosting, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2–3 tablespoons milk to adjust consistency

Optional Decorations:

Ground cinnamon or chai powder for dusting
Crushed nuts (almonds or pistachios)
Edible flowers for garnish

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Bake Cake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round pan.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices (cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves).
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla.
Gradually mix in dry ingredients alternately with chai and milk/yogurt until smooth.
Pour batter into prepared pan and bake 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool completely.

Step 2: Frost Cake

Prepare the frosting by beating cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla. Adjust consistency with milk if needed.
Apply a crumb coat to the cooled cake and chill 20 minutes.
Frost the cake evenly and smooth with a spatula.

Step 3: Decorate

Dust with ground cinnamon or chai powder.
Optionally, sprinkle crushed nuts or add edible flowers on top for a Tasty-inspired presentation.

Notes

Moisture Tip: Use yogurt or milk to keep the cake soft and tender.
Make Ahead: Bake a day before serving and frost the day of.
Flavor Boost: Brew the chai strong to enhance the spice flavor.
Mini Version: Make cupcakes and frost individually for party servings.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Category: Dessert / Tea Cake
Method: Baked / Frosted
Cuisine: Indian-Inspired