Chai Latte Cupcakes

Chai Latte Cupcakes are a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the warmth of chai spices with the lightness of cupcakes. These treats are perfect for various occasions, from cozy gatherings to festive celebrations. The unique blend of spices sets them apart, making each bite a comforting experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The infusion of chai tea and warming spices creates a cupcake that is bursting with flavor.
• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip up these delicious cupcakes easily.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party, afternoon tea, or just a sweet snack at home.
• Decadent Buttercream Topping: The spiced buttercream adds an extra layer of indulgence that complements the cupcakes beautifully.
• Homemade Goodness: Enjoy the satisfaction of baking from scratch with ingredients you can trust.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cupcake tin
• Cupcake cases
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer (optional)
• Piping bag (for icing)
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Cupcake tin: Essential for shaping your cupcakes and ensuring they bake evenly.
• Electric mixer: Helps achieve a smooth batter quickly, saving you time and effort.
• Piping bag: Allows for neat and attractive icing on your cupcakes, enhancing presentation.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

• 150 ml Milk (whole or semi-skimmed)
• 4 Chai tea bags
• 90 ml Chai tea infused milk
• 135 g Butter or baking spread (softened, unsalted)
• 135 g Light brown soft sugar
• 2 Eggs (large)
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract
• 200 g Self raising flour
• 1/4 tsp Bicarbonate of soda
• 1/2 tsp Cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp Ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp Ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp Ground cardamom
• 1/4 tsp Ground nutmeg

For the Buttercream Icing

• 200 g Butter (softened, unsalted)
• 400 g Icing sugar
• 1/4 tsp Cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp Ground cardamom
• 1/8 tsp Ground cloves
• 2 1/2 tbsp Chai tea infused milk
• 1/2 tbsp Demerara sugar
• A generous pinch of cinnamon (approx. 1/16 tsp)

How to Make Chai Latte Cupcakes

Step 1: Prepare Chai Tea Infused Milk

To make the chai tea infused milk, warm up the milk until it is hot but not boiling. Remove from heat and add the chai spiced tea bags. Let it brew for about 10–15 minutes. Before removing them, squeeze out as much liquid as possible.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 160C Fan /180C /350F /Gas Mark 4. Line a cupcake tin with cupcake cases.

Step 3: Mix Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and light brown sugar. Ideally use an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla Extract

Add in the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Whisk until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gently add in self raising flour, bicarbonate of soda, cinnamon, ground ginger, ground cloves, ground cardamom, and ground nutmeg. Whisk gently to combine.

Step 6: Add Chai Infused Milk

Mix in about 90 ml of the chai tea infused milk until just combined.

Step 7: Bake Your Cupcakes

Divide the batter into prepared cupcake cases. Bake for about 20–25 minutes until golden on top and a skewer inserted comes out clean. Allow cooling completely on a wire rack.

Step 8: Make Spiced Buttercream Icing

In another bowl, mix together softened butter, icing sugar, cinnamon, ground cloves, ground cardamom, and remaining chai infused milk using an electric whisk for best results. If too stiff, add more milk to achieve desired consistency.

Step 9: Ice Your Cupcakes

Pipe or spoon the spiced buttercream onto each cooled cupcake using your preferred piping nozzle or simply spread it on with a spoon.

Step 10: Store Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in a cool place. Consume within three days for best freshness.

How to Serve Chai Latte Cupcakes

Chai Latte Cupcakes are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a party or a cozy afternoon tea, here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your cupcake experience.

With a Hot Beverage

• Tea or Coffee: Pair your cupcakes with a warm cup of chai or coffee to complement the spices in the cupcakes.
• Spiced Milk: Serve with steamed milk infused with cinnamon and cardamom for an extra touch of warmth.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Mixed Desserts: Arrange your Chai Latte Cupcakes alongside other desserts like brownies, cookies, or fruit tarts for variety.
• Themed Events: Create a chai-themed dessert platter for gatherings, highlighting flavors that echo the spices in the cupcakes.

For Special Occasions

• Birthdays: Decorate with festive toppers and serve at birthday parties as a unique dessert option.
• Brunches: Offer these cupcakes at brunches where they can shine as sweet treats among savory dishes.

How to Perfect Chai Latte Cupcakes

To ensure your Chai Latte Cupcakes come out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Flavor Infusion: Use freshly brewed chai tea for the infused milk to maximize flavor.
• Softened Butter: Make sure your butter is softened properly; this helps in achieving a smooth batter texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently mix the ingredients to avoid dense cupcakes; overmixing can lead to tough textures.
• Check Doneness Early: Start checking your cupcakes at 20 minutes. They should spring back when lightly touched.
• Cooling Time: Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before icing. This prevents melting and helps maintain shape.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter.

Best Side Dishes for Chai Latte Cupcakes

Chai Latte Cupcakes pair nicely with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some delicious options.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad balances the sweetness of the cupcakes with tartness.
2. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like cream cheese or brie; their creamy texture pairs well with spiced cupcakes.
3. Mini Scones: Serve light, buttery scones alongside for a delightful tea-time treat; add clotted cream for richness.
4. Spiced Nuts: A bowl of spicy roasted nuts can offer a crunchy contrast to the soft cupcakes while enhancing spice notes.
5. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits; it adds creaminess and acidity to balance the sweetness of the cupcakes.
6. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These provide an elegant touch and their sweetness complements the chai flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when preparing delicious Chai Latte Cupcakes. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Infusion: Not allowing the chai tea bags to steep long enough can result in bland cupcakes. Make sure to brew the chai tea for at least 10-15 minutes for maximum flavor.

• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.

• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect how your cupcakes rise. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is properly calibrated.

• Neglecting Cooling Time: Cutting into warm cupcakes can ruin their texture and flavor. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.

• Using Cold Butter: Cold butter will not cream well with sugar, leading to uneven batter consistency. Always use softened butter for the best results.

• Ignoring Icing Consistency: If your buttercream is too stiff, add more infused milk gradually until you reach the right spreadable consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chai Latte Cupcakes in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chai Latte Cupcakes

• Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Chai Latte Cupcakes

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and heat cupcakes for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Warm one cupcake at a time for about 10-15 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Place a cupcake in a pan over low heat, cover, and warm gently for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Chai Latte Cupcakes that may help you:

What makes Chai Latte Cupcakes unique?

Chai Latte Cupcakes are infused with aromatic spices and tea, providing a delightful twist on traditional cupcakes. The flavors of cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom set them apart.

Can I make these cupcakes vegan?

Yes! You can replace eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce and use plant-based butter and milk alternatives to make vegan Chai Latte Cupcakes.

How do I customize my Chai Latte Cupcakes?

You can customize your cupcakes by adding nuts like walnuts or pecans or by incorporating chocolate chips or dried fruit into the batter.

How long do Chai Latte Cupcakes last?

Chai Latte Cupcakes will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 2 months if frozen properly.

Can I use different spices in my cupcakes?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices such as nutmeg or allspice based on your preferences.

Final Thoughts

Chai Latte Cupcakes offer an exciting blend of flavors that bring warmth and comfort with every bite. They are perfect for any occasion or simply as a treat after dinner. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite toppings or mix-ins. Don’t hesitate; try baking these delightful cupcakes today!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Chai Latte Cupcakes

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Makes approximately 12 cupcakes 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Chai Latte Cupcakes are a delightful treat that brings together the comforting warmth of chai spices and the light, fluffy texture of cupcakes. Infused with aromatic flavors like cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom, these cupcakes offer a unique twist on traditional desserts. Topped with a creamy spiced buttercream, they are perfect for any occasion, from festive gatherings to cozy afternoons at home.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 150 ml milk
• 4 chai tea bags
• 135 g softened unsalted butter
• 135 g light brown soft sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 200 g self-raising flour
• cinnamon
• ground ginger
• ground cloves
• ground cardamom
• ground nutmeg
• 200 g softened unsalted butter for icing
• 400 g icing sugar
• chai-infused milk

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare chai tea infused milk by warming milk and steeping chai tea bags for 10–15 minutes.
2. Preheat oven to 160C Fan /180C /350F /Gas Mark 4 and line a cupcake tin with cases.
3. In a bowl, cream together softened butter and light brown sugar until smooth.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually mix in self-raising flour and spices until just combined.
6. Stir in about 90 ml of chai-infused milk until the batter is smooth.
7. Divide batter among cupcake cases and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden.
8. Let cool completely on a wire rack before icing with spiced buttercream.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cupcake
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 40mg