Spiced Chai Latte Cupcakes Recipe

If you’re obsessed with cozy flavors and all things chai, these Spiced Chai Latte Cupcakes are about to become your new baking crush. Imagine pillowy-soft cupcakes infused with warm spices, topped with a cloud of chai buttercream — each bite is like wrapping yourself in your softest blanket on a crisp fall morning.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in these Spiced Chai Latte Cupcakes is chosen to highlight the warm, aromatic personality of chai and create that signature soft crumb. Here’s what you’ll need, and why each one makes these cupcakes shine.

• Ground Cinnamon, Ginger, Cardamom, Allspice, Cloves, Nutmeg: These create your custom chai spice mix, layering in warmth, depth, and that signature chai aroma.
• All-purpose flour: The foundation of structure without weighing everything down—you get a light, fluffy texture every time.
• Baking powder: This is your lift—ensuring the cupcakes bake up tall and tender.
• Kosher salt: Just enough to balance sweetness and amplify the spices.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps your cupcakes extra-moist and soft for days (no dry cupcakes allowed!).
• Granulated sugar: The sweet backbone for both flavor and structure.
• Eggs (preferably at room temperature): These bind the batter and add richness.
• Vanilla extract: Brings a cozy, creamy note that rounds out the spices.
• Brewed chai tea: You’ll infuse extra authenticity and real tea notes—make it strong!
• Whole milk: For richness and an ultra-tender crumb.
• Unsalted butter: The base of your dreamy chai buttercream—use high-quality butter if you can.
• Powdered sugar (sifted): Makes your frosting cloud-like and smooth, never gritty.

Variations

The beauty of Spiced Chai Latte Cupcakes is how easily they adapt to your cravings or dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to personalize—these swaps and tweaks make it so easy!

• Dairy-Free: Use your favorite plant-based milk and a dairy-free butter for the buttercream–the flavor remains rich and delicious.
• Extra Chai Hit: Add a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the batter for a dirty chai cupcake twist that coffee lovers will adore.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute your favorite 1:1 gluten-free baking flour for all-purpose flour—just be sure to check for xanthan gum in the mix for best results.
• Orange Zest Brightness: Fold a teaspoon of finely grated orange zest into the batter for a sweet, aromatic citrus pop against the warm spices.

How to Make Spiced Chai Latte Cupcakes

Step 1: Mix the Chai Spice Blend

Start by whisking together your cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, allspice, cloves, and nutmeg. This vibrant spice blend is the soul of your cupcakes—make sure it’s well-combined for balanced flavor in every single bite.

Step 2: Prep Your Tools and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line your muffin tins with cupcake liners or a swipe of nonstick spray. Getting everything set now means you can bake without missing a beat.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, two tablespoons of your chai spice mix, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the spice flavors are spread evenly throughout every cupcake.

Step 4: Cream Oil, Sugar & Eggs

In a separate bowl (or the bowl of your stand mixer), beat vegetable oil and sugar until it’s fluffy and light. Then add in eggs and vanilla, mixing until everything is gloriously smooth—the base for ultra-tender crumb.

Step 5: Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients

Pour in the chai tea and milk, then add your dry ingredients. Mix gently and stop as soon as the batter is smooth with no flour streaks—it’s totally fine if it’s a bit lumpy. Overmixing is the cupcake’s enemy!

Step 6: Fill & Bake

Divide the batter evenly among your prepared muffin tins, filling each about 3/4 of the way (3 tablespoons per cupcake is a sweet spot). Bake for 15–17 minutes, until a toothpick comes out with just a moist crumb or clean.

Step 7: Cool Completely

Let the baked cupcakes rest in their tin a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack. Let them cool to absolute room temperature—frosting too soon is a recipe for buttercream meltdown!

Step 8: Make Chai Buttercream

Beat the butter until ultra-fluffy, then add a tablespoon of chai spice mix and a pinch of salt. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar, mixing at low speed. Once combined, beat at medium for 2 minutes until gorgeously light and smooth.

Step 9: Frost and Decorate

Transfer the buttercream to a piping bag with a star tip (or just swirl with a knife!), then frost each cupcake. Sprinkle a little cinnamon, and if you’re feeling fancy, perch a cinnamon stick or a star anise pod on top for that barista-chic look.

How to Serve Spiced Chai Latte Cupcakes

Garnishes

For true Spiced Chai Latte Cupcakes flair, I love a dusting of ground cinnamon or a sprinkle of the leftover chai spice mix. Top each cupcake with an elegant cinnamon stick or a star anise pod—the kind of finishing touches that make them seriously “wow.”

Side Dishes

Serve these cupcakes with a cozy cup of masala chai (over ice or steaming hot!), or offer them up alongside a platter of fresh fruit or simple tea sandwiches for a delightful dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform your Spiced Chai Latte Cupcakes into a showstopper by arranging them in a circle and decorating with edible flowers or gold leaf for a high-tea vibe, or package a few in a pretty box tied with twine for the most memorable edible gift.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover cupcakes store beautifully—just keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for longer freshness (bring to room temp before serving for the softest texture).

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze Spiced Chai Latte Cupcakes (unfrosted or frosted!). Wrap each tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw on the counter before enjoying or before frosting.

Reheating

If you love a just-baked, gently warmed cupcake, pop an unfrosted one in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. For frosted cupcakes, simply let them return to room temperature naturally for the best buttercream texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Give these Spiced Chai Latte Cupcakes a try the next time you’re craving a baking day (or a little cozy magic in your kitchen). I know you’ll fall for their aromatic flavor and pillowy crumb—share them with friends, bring them to the office, or just treat yourself to something special. Happy baking!

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