Description
The term Chai Spice Loaf Cake refers to a dessert that incorporates the traditional spice blend used in masala chai, the spiced tea beverage popular across South Asia and now the world. Unlike plain tea, masala chai relies on a specific combination of warming, aromatic spices to give it its characteristic complex flavor. When these spices are integrated into a cake batter, they elevate the simple loaf structure into something truly special.
Ingredients
Cake
1½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground ginger
¼ tsp ground cloves
¼ tsp ground cardamom
¼ tsp ground nutmeg
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup plain yogurt or sour cream
½ cup milk
Vanilla Glaze
1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tbsp milk
½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.
In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in eggs one at a time, then vanilla.
Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk/yogurt, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
2. Bake
Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Let cool 10 minutes in pan, then transfer to a wire rack.
3. Make the Glaze
Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
Drizzle over slightly cooled loaf.
4. Serve
Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Optional: dust with a little cinnamon or garnish with chopped nuts.
Notes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert / Snack
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: ~320 kcal
Keywords: Moist Chai Cake, Spiced Tea Loaf, Homemade Chai Spice Cake, Cardamom Loaf Recipe
