Maple Chai Layer Cake – Warm, Cozy, and Perfect for Any Celebration

There’s something magical about the moment warm chai spices meet sweet maple syrup. This maple chai layer cake was inspired by a cozy autumn afternoon when I wanted a dessert that tasted like a hug in cake form. The blend of cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and maple creates a nostalgic aroma that fills the whole kitchen.
Whether you’re preparing a festive dessert or simply treating yourself to an easy homemade maple chai cake recipe, this layered beauty promises comfort and elegance in every slice. It’s the perfect bake for gatherings, birthdays, or weekend baking projects.

Ingredients

For the Maple Chai Cake Layers

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
1 tsp cinnamon
½ tsp ground ginger
½ tsp ground cardamom
¼ tsp ground cloves
¼ tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar
3 large eggs
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1 cup milk
⅓ cup pure maple syrup

For the Maple Chai Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 ½ cups powdered sugar
2 tbsp maple syrup
1–2 tbsp milk (as needed)
½ tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp ground cardamom

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Cake Layers

Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line three 20 cm (8-inch) cake pans.
In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, and salt.
In a separate bowl, cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract.
Pour in milk and maple syrup, mixing gently until combined.
Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until smooth—avoid overmixing.
Divide batter evenly between cake pans and bake for 22–26 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool layers in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling.

Make the Maple Chai Frosting

Beat butter until creamy and pale.
Add powdered sugar gradually while mixing on low.
Add maple syrup, cinnamon, and cardamom.
Add 1–2 tbsp milk until frosting becomes smooth and spreadable.

Assemble the Cake

Place the first cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top.
Add the second layer, frost again, then top with the final layer.
Frost the entire cake, smoothing the sides and top.
Optionally decorate with a sprinkle of cinnamon or crushed nuts.

Tips & Variations

Make it nutty: Add ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for extra texture.
Use stronger chai flavor: Increase cinnamon and cardamom slightly or infuse the milk with chai tea before using it.
Lighter frosting option: For a less sweet version, replace half the butter with whipped cream to create a creamy, fluffy maple chai topping.

Storing & Reheating

Refrigerator: Store the cake (covered) for up to 4 days. It stays moist thanks to the maple syrup.
Freezer: Freeze whole or sliced for 1–2 months. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place in an airtight container.
Reheating/Serving: Bring refrigerated slices to room temperature for 20–30 minutes before serving. Frozen slices can thaw in the fridge overnight.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! Bake the layers a day in advance. Wrap and refrigerate them, then frost the cake the next day.

2. Can I use gluten-free flour?
A high-quality 1:1 gluten-free baking blend works well. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for structure.

3. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes—use plant-based butter and milk. The flavors remain delicious and warm.

4. Can I reduce the sweetness?
Reduce powdered sugar in the frosting by ½ cup or add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.

5. Can I bake it in two layers instead of three?
Absolutely. Simply extend the bake time slightly and ensure the centers are fully set.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

Calories: 415
Protein: 5 g
Carbohydrates: 55 g
Fat: 20 g

This maple chai layer cake brings the warmth of your favorite spiced drink into a tender, beautifully layered dessert. If you try this easy homemade maple chai cake recipe, let me know how it turned out in the comments! Share it with friends, save it on Pinterest, and explore more cozy dessert recipes on the blog.