Chai Latte Cupcakes Recipe

If you adore the cozy, spicy warmth of chai and have a sweet tooth craving something unique, these Chai Latte Cupcakes will quickly become your new obsession. Combining the fragrant spices of chai tea with a soft, moist cupcake base and a luxuriously creamy buttercream frosting, this recipe brings the comforting flavors of your favorite chai latte into a delightful handheld treat. With just the right balance of cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, every bite is like a little celebration of spice and sweetness that will enchant both your senses and your guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together in perfect harmony makes these Chai Latte Cupcakes truly special. Each component plays an important role, whether it’s the warming spices that create depth, the milk infused with chai tea for added flavor, or the soft butter that guarantees a tender crumb and rich frosting.

• 150 ml Milk (whole or semi-skimmed): Warms as the chai infusion base, adding creaminess to the batter.
• 4 Chai tea bags: Packed with aromatic spices, these are essential for that signature chai flavor.
• 135 g Butter or baking spread (softened, unsalted): Provides moisture and richness to the cupcakes.
• 135 g Light brown soft sugar: Adds subtle caramel notes and keeps the cupcakes tender.
• 2 Eggs (large): Bind everything together and create structure.
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall warmth and sweetness of the flavors.
• 200 g Self raising flour: Gives the cupcakes their soft, airy texture.
• 1/4 tsp Bicarbonate of soda: Works alongside the flour for a perfect rise.
• 1/2 tsp Cinnamon: The classic chai spice that creates warmth and spice.
• 1/4 tsp Ground ginger: Adds a zesty, slightly peppery kick.
• 1/4 tsp Ground cloves: Imparts a rich, slightly sweet depth.
• 1/4 tsp Ground cardamom: Provides a bright, citrusy note to balance sweetness.
• 1/4 tsp Ground nutmeg: Offers a mellow, nutty spice that complements the chai.
• 2 1/2 tbsp Chai tea infused milk: Used in the frosting to continue the flavor theme.
• 200 g Butter (softened, unsalted): For the luscious and smooth buttercream.
• 400 g Icing sugar: Sweetens and lightens the frosting texture.
• 1/4 tsp Cinnamon: Sprinkled into the buttercream to echo cupcake spices.
• 1/8 tsp Ground cardamom: Keeps the frosting’s chai profile fresh and fragrant.
• 1/8 tsp Ground cloves: Adds warm spice complexity to the frosting.
• 1/2 tbsp Demerara sugar: For a little crunch and extra caramel flavor on top.
• A generous pinch of cinnamon (approx 1/16 tsp): Final touch to dust over the cupcakes for aroma.

How to Make Chai Latte Cupcakes

Step 1: Infuse the Milk with Chai Tea

Start by warming the milk gently until it’s hot but not boiling. Remove from the heat and steep the chai tea bags in the warm milk for about 10 to 15 minutes. Don’t skip squeezing out the tea bags after brewing, as that extra chai goodness enriches the milk and your cupcakes’ flavor.

Step 2: Prepare Your Oven and Cupcake Tin

Preheat your oven to 160C fan/180C/350F/Gas Mark 4 to ensure a perfect baking temperature for tender, even cupcakes. Line a 12-hole cupcake tin with cases; this setup makes transferring and cooling your cupcakes easy and mess-free.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using an electric mixer makes this process a breeze: whip together your softened butter and light brown sugar until the mixture is smooth, light, and creamy. This step is where your cupcakes start developing their buttery, sweet foundation.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Once your butter and sugar are perfectly creamed, add the eggs one at a time and whisk in the vanilla extract. This incorporation adds moisture and richness, while vanilla lifts and rounds out the warm spice notes beautifully.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Spices

Gently whisk together the self-raising flour, bicarbonate of soda, and the carefully measured ground spices – cinnamon, ginger, cloves, cardamom, and nutmeg. Folding these into the batter slowly keeps the mixture light and airy, essential for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 6: Combine with Infused Milk

Mix in 90ml of the chai tea infused milk you prepared earlier. This addition deeply flavors the cupcake batter, infusing every bite with chai warmth and a hint of creaminess without overpowering.

Step 7: Bake the Cupcakes

Divide the batter evenly into the cupcake liners and slide the tin into your preheated oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the tops turn golden and a thin skewer comes out clean. After baking, let your Chai Latte Cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.

Step 8: Craft the Spiced Buttercream

Create the heavenly chai-spiced frosting by mixing softened butter with icing sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and 2 1/2 tablespoons of the chai-infused milk. An electric whisk works best for this, yielding a light and creamy buttercream. If it feels too stiff, a bit more milk will smooth it out beautifully.

Step 9: Frost Your Chai Latte Cupcakes

With your buttercream ready, pipe it generously onto each cupcake with your favorite nozzle or simply spread it on using a knife or spoon. The luscious cream topping finishes off these cupcakes with elegance and that extra chai burst in every mouthful.

Step 10: Store and Enjoy

Keep your cupcakes fresh by storing them in an airtight container in a cool place, ideally consuming leftovers within three days to enjoy them at their best.

How to Serve Chai Latte Cupcakes

Garnishes

Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or demerara sugar on top of your frosted cupcakes for an inviting aroma and delightful sparkle. You can also add a tiny cinnamon stick or star anise for an eye-catching, elegant touch that hints at the flavors inside.

Side Dishes

Pair these cupcakes with a hot cup of chai latte or chai tea to echo their spices. For a more indulgent treat, serve with a small dollop of whipped cream or a simple fruit compote like spiced apple or pear to bring a fresh, juicy contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Present your Chai Latte Cupcakes on a rustic wooden platter adorned with fresh cinnamon sticks and dried orange slices for a cozy, autumn-inspired look. You can also package them individually in pretty boxes tied with twine, making them perfect gifts for friends and family who will adore this homemade delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Chai Latte Cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge if your kitchen is warm. They will stay moist and flavorful for up to three days. Avoid leaving them uncovered to prevent drying out.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these cupcakes later, freeze them unfrosted or fully frosted in a sealed container. Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap first for best protection. They can keep well in the freezer for up to one month, ready to thaw before serving.

Reheating

For a freshly baked feel, warm your cupcake gently in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds before eating. This step revives softness and lets the spices bloom, giving you that just-baked comfort with every bite.

FAQs

Can I use regular black tea instead of chai tea bags?

While you can, you’ll miss out on the signature spice blend that chai tea offers. If you substitute, consider adding ground cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves to your milk to capture some of the chai essence.

Are these cupcakes suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, all the ingredients used in the Chai Latte Cupcakes recipe are vegetarian-friendly. Just double-check your butter and any processed ingredients to be sure they meet your preferences.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Replace the milk and butter with your favorite plant-based alternatives like almond milk and vegan margarine. The flavor will stay rich and spiced, just with a dairy-free twist.

How do I know when the cupcakes are done baking?

The cupcakes are ready when their tops are golden brown and a thin skewer inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Resist opening the oven too early to ensure proper rising.

Can I add other spices or flavors to these cupcakes?

You can experiment by adding a bit of freshly grated orange zest for a citrus note or a touch of ground black pepper for extra warmth. Just be careful to maintain balance so the chai spices remain at the forefront.

Final Thoughts

Making Chai Latte Cupcakes is like capturing the essence of your favorite cozy beverage in a delicious little cake that’s perfect any time of day. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends, these cupcakes offer a comforting hug of spice and sweetness in every bite. Give this recipe a go—you’ll find it’s impossible to stop at just one.

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