This Chai Spice Apple Cake combines warm spices like cinnamon and cardamom with juicy apples for a cozy treat. It’s perfect for any time you want a slice of comfort!
Every bite is like a hug on a plate! When I make it, my kitchen smells amazing. I love enjoying it warm with a scoop of ice cream on top—pure happiness! 🍏🍰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice contrast to the sweetness of the cake. If unavailable, Honeycrisp or Fuji can work too. I love how the apples stay juicy after baking!
Flour: All-purpose flour is perfect for this cake, but whole wheat flour can be a healthier alternative. If you’re gluten-free, try a 1:1 gluten-free blend instead.
Spices: The chai spice mix gives a warm flavor; feel free to adjust according to your taste! If you don’t have cardamom, pumpkin pie spice can be a lovely substitute.
Butter: If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or a plant-based butter. It gives the cake a unique flavor.
Yogurt/Sour Cream: Unsweetened applesauce or a dairy-free yogurt can replace yogurt or sour cream. This keeps the cake moist while adding some extra flavor!
How Do You Get Moist Cake with Apples?
To keep your Chai Spice Apple Cake moist, focus on a few key steps:
- Use fresh, juicy apples and toss them in lemon juice. This not only prevents browning but adds moisture.
- Don’t overmix your batter. Mix just until the ingredients come together; this keeps the cake tender.
- Add yogurt or sour cream; both of these ingredients add moisture and richness. Let your cake cool completely before cutting for the best texture.
Chai Spice Apple Cake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cake:
- 2 large apples (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced)
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup plain yogurt or sour cream
- ¼ cup strong brewed chai tea (cooled)
- Optional: caramel sauce for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chai Spice Apple Cake will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 45-50 minutes to bake. After baking, let it cool for about 10 minutes in the pan, then cool it completely on a wire rack. So, overall, plan for about 1 hour to an hour and a half to enjoy your delicious cake!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Equipment:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan, making sure it’s well coated so the cake will come out easily after baking.
2. Prep the Apples:
In a bowl, toss the thinly sliced apples with lemon juice. This keeps them from browning and enhances their flavor. Set them aside while you mix the batter.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and all your spices: cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg. This lets the spices blend evenly throughout your cake.
4. Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat them until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
5. Add Egg and Vanilla:
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat until everything is well combined.
6. Combine Ingredients:
Gradually add in your dry flour mixture and yogurt, mixing just until combined. Start and end with the flour mixture for the best texture.
7. Incorporate Chai Tea:
Gently stir in the cooled chai tea. This will enhance the flavor of your cake and keep it moist.
8. Fold in Apples:
Carefully fold in half of the apple slices into the batter, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
9. Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Arrange the remaining apple slices on top in a lovely circular pattern.
10. Check for Doneness:
Bake your cake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes. To know if it’s done, insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready!
11. Cooling:
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step helps maintain the perfect texture.
12. Serve and Enjoy:
If desired, drizzle some warm caramel sauce over the top for an extra treat! Slice and enjoy this chai-spiced delight alongside a cup of chai or tea. It’s the perfect cozy dessert!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness, you can use Honeycrisp, Fuji, or even a mix of your favorites. Just make sure they’re firm and juicy for the best flavor and texture!
How Should I Store Leftover Cake?
Store any leftover Chai Spice Apple Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before enjoying!
Can I Make This Cake in Advance?
Yes, you can! Bake the cake ahead of time and let it cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to a month. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.
What Can I Use Instead of Yogurt or Sour Cream?
If you don’t have yogurt or sour cream on hand, you can substitute with unsweetened applesauce or a plant-based yogurt for a dairy-free option! This will still keep your cake moist and delicious.
