On This Page Show
Spiced Chai Latte Cupcakes bring the warm, cozy flavors of a chai latte into a delightful dessert. Infused with aromatic spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger, these soft and fluffy cupcakes are topped with creamy vanilla frosting and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
These cupcakes are sure to be a hit, perfect for fall gatherings, winter celebrations, or any time you want a comforting treat
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Warm and Cozy Flavors: Infused with the comforting spices of a chai latte.
- Soft and Moist: A tender cupcake base with just the right amount of spice.
- Simple Yet Elegant: Vanilla frosting and a cinnamon sprinkle add a polished touch.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for holidays, tea parties, or a cozy night in.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice blend or add a drizzle of chai syrup for extra flavor.
What to Serve with Spiced Chai Latte Cupcakes
- Chai Tea or Coffee: The perfect pairing for these spiced treats.
- Hot Cocoa: Adds a touch of indulgence to your dessert spread.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A creamy contrast to the warm spices.
- Spiced Nuts: Complement the chai flavors with a crunchy side.
- Caramel Drizzle: Elevate the cupcakes with a sweet finishing touch.
Pro Tip Before Starting
Use freshly ground spices for a more robust and aromatic chai flavor.
Spiced Chai Latte Cupcakes
Chai-spiced cupcakes topped with creamy vanilla frosting and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a cozy, flavorful dessert.
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
For the Vanilla Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Garnish:
- Ground cinnamon for sprinkling
- Optional: star anise or cinnamon sticks for decoration
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices (cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg).
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 16-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with the heavy cream, until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pipe or spread the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes. Sprinkle with ground cinnamon and garnish with star anise or cinnamon sticks for a decorative touch.
Notes
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost before serving.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter, milk, and an egg substitute.
- Extra Spice: Add a pinch of black pepper to the spice mix for a bolder chai flavor.
- Alternative Frosting: Swap vanilla frosting for cream cheese frosting for a tangy twist.
Pro Tip After Baking
For an extra chai latte vibe, drizzle the cupcakes with a light chai syrup before frosting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chai tea in the recipe?
Yes! Brew a strong chai tea and use it instead of milk for a deeper chai flavor.
How do I prevent the cupcakes from being too dense?
Avoid overmixing the batter and ensure your ingredients are at room temperature.
Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Wrapping it up
Spiced Chai Latte Cupcakes are a warm, comforting dessert that captures the cozy flavors of a chai latte in cupcake form.
With their soft, spiced base and creamy frosting, they’re the perfect treat for any occasion.
Try this recipe today and enjoy the cozy, aromatic flavors of chai in every bite!