Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting | URBAN BAKES

Desirably effortless, this Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting will evoke the very essence of fall with its sweet spice and fragrant frosting. Perfect for a cozy gathering, festive celebrations, or simply enjoying a slice with your afternoon tea, this cake combines the warm flavors of chai spices with the rich taste of pumpkin. Its moist texture and delightful aroma make it a standout dessert that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless to Make: This cake comes together quickly, making it ideal for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Bursting with Flavor: The unique blend of chai spices and pumpkin creates a deliciously warm flavor profile that is perfect for fall.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it plain, with frosting, or as a base for ice cream—this cake adapts beautifully to any occasion.
• One Layer Wonder: A simple one-layer cake means less hassle while still delivering on taste and presentation.
• Perfect for Sharing: Cut into squares for easy serving at parties or family gatherings—everyone will want a piece!

Tools and Preparation

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

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking pan (9×13 inch)
• Electric mixer (or whisk)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without spills.
• Baking pan (9×13 inch): The perfect size for even baking and easy portion control.
• Electric mixer (or whisk): Saves time and effort in mixing batter to the right consistency.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• all-purpose flour
• baking powder
• baking soda
• salt
• ground cinnamon
• ground ginger
• ground nutmeg
• pumpkin puree
• granulated sugar
• brown sugar
• eggs
• vegetable oil

For the Brown Butter Frosting

• unsalted butter
• powdered sugar
• vanilla extract
• milk

How to Make Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting | URBAN BAKES

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray to ensure easy removal of the cake.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, sift together:
1. all-purpose flour
2. baking powder
3. baking soda
4. salt
5. ground cinnamon
6. ground ginger
7. ground nutmeg

Mix well until fully combined.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine:
1. pumpkin puree
2. granulated sugar
3. brown sugar
4. eggs
5. vegetable oil

Use an electric mixer or whisk until smooth and well blended.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cake tender.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Make Brown Butter Frosting

While the cake cools, prepare the frosting:
1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt unsalted butter until it turns golden brown.
2. Remove from heat; let cool slightly before adding powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk.
3. Beat until smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Frost and Serve

Once the cake is completely cool, spread brown butter frosting generously over the top. Cut into squares and serve!

Enjoy this delightful Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting as you celebrate fall flavors!

How to Serve Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting | URBAN BAKES

Serving your Pumpkin Chai Cake with Brown Butter Frosting can elevate its delightful flavors. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this cake that highlight its warm spices and rich frosting.

Casual Afternoon Tea

• Enjoy a slice of cake with a cup of chai tea for a cozy afternoon break.

Festive Gatherings

• Serve this cake at holiday parties or family gatherings to impress guests with its seasonal flavors.

Dessert Buffet

• Slice the cake into smaller pieces and include it in a dessert buffet alongside other fall-inspired treats.

Brunch Delight

• Pair this cake with coffee or hot apple cider during brunch for a sweet start to the day.

Gift Idea

• Wrap slices in decorative packaging to share with friends and family as a thoughtful homemade gift.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting | URBAN BAKES

Perfecting your Pumpkin Chai Cake requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to achieve the best results.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh pumpkin puree adds moisture and enhances the flavor compared to canned options.
• Measure accurately: Ensure accurate measurements for flour and sugar for the right texture and sweetness.
• Cool completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and sliding of the frosting.
• Brown butter carefully: Monitor the browning process closely; it should be golden with a nutty aroma without burning.
• Add spices wisely: Adjust chai spices according to your taste; don’t hesitate to add more cinnamon or ginger for extra warmth.
• Use quality frosting tools: A spatula or piping bag can help create beautiful designs with your brown butter frosting.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting | URBAN BAKES

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Chai Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options that complement its flavors well.

1. Spiced Apple Compote: A warm, spiced apple compote adds a fruity contrast and pairs beautifully with the cake’s spices.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream provides a cool, smooth texture that balances the richness of the frosting.
3. Chai-Spiced Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream infused with chai spices enhances the cake’s flavor profile.
4. Roasted Nuts: A mix of roasted pecans or walnuts offers crunch and complements the cake’s moistness.
5. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce on top adds an extra layer of sweetness that pairs perfectly with pumpkin flavors.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits adds freshness and cuts through the richness of the cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Ignoring Ingredient Temperature: Using cold eggs or butter can lead to uneven mixing. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can make your cake dense. Mix until just combined to keep it light and fluffy.
• Not Measuring Properly: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precise ingredient amounts.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Cutting into the cake too early can cause it to crumble. Allow it to cool completely before frosting.
• Using Old Spices: Fresh spices enhance flavor. Check your spice cupboard and replace any that are stale for the best chai flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting | URBAN BAKES

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting | URBAN BAKES

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat slices for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a pan over low heat, covering it with a lid for even heating, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Pumpkin Chai Cake so special?

This Pumpkin Chai Cake is infused with warm spices that evoke fall vibes, complemented by rich brown butter frosting that adds depth and indulgence.

Can I use different types of flour?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or gluten-free alternatives; just be aware that this may change the cake’s texture slightly.

How do I ensure my cake is moist?

To keep the cake moist, avoid overbaking and consider adding an extra egg or a bit of applesauce to the batter for added moisture.

Can I customize the spices in my Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference—cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cardamom all work wonderfully together.

How long does it take to prepare this recipe?

The total prep and cooking time is about 2 hours, including cooling time before frosting.

Final Thoughts

This delightful Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting captures the essence of fall baking with its cozy flavors and aromatic spices. It’s versatile enough for any occasion—from family gatherings to festive celebrations. Feel free to customize it further by adding nuts or chocolate chips!

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

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the flavors of fall with this Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting. This moist, one-layer cake is a perfect blend of warm chai spices and rich pumpkin puree, making it an ideal treat for cozy gatherings or as a delightful addition to your afternoon tea. Topped with creamy brown butter frosting, this cake is both simple to prepare and visually appealing, ensuring it will be the star of any dessert table. Whether served plain or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends.

---

Ingredients

• all-purpose flour
• baking powder
• baking soda
• salt
• ground cinnamon
• ground ginger
• ground nutmeg
• pumpkin puree
• granulated sugar
• brown sugar
• eggs
• vegetable oil
• unsalted butter
• powdered sugar
• vanilla extract
• milk

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.
3. In another bowl, mix pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vegetable oil until smooth.
4. Gradually combine dry ingredients with wet ingredients until just mixed.
5. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. For the frosting: Melt unsalted butter in a saucepan until golden brown; let cool slightly before mixing with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until creamy.
7. Once the cake has cooled completely, frost generously and cut into squares for serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 40mg