Chai Spice Vanilla Bean Cake Recipe for Fall

Chai Spice Vanilla Bean Cake Recipe for Fall

Chai spice and real vanilla bean were made for each other. The warmth of cardamom, cinnamon, and clove pairs with the rich, floral character of vanilla, making this cake a standout choice for fall entertaining.

Using a whole AayuLuxe Grade A vanilla bean brings vanilla directly into both the cake and frosting.

Ingredients

For the Cake:
• 300g all-purpose flour
• 1½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground cardamom
• ¼ tsp ground cloves
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper
• 200g unsalted butter, softened
• 250g sugar
• 3 eggs
• 1 AayuLuxe Grade A vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped
• 240ml buttermilk

For the Vanilla Bean Frosting:
• 200g cream cheese, softened
• 100g unsalted butter, softened
• 250g powdered sugar
• Seeds from ½ vanilla bean

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F) and grease two 8-inch round cake pans.

2. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and black pepper.

3. In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes.

4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla bean seeds.

5. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined.

6. Divide the batter between the prepared pans and bake for 28–32 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Cool the cakes completely before frosting.

8. For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla bean seeds, beating until fluffy.

9. Frost between the layers and over the top and sides of the cooled cake.

Why Use a Grade A Vanilla Bean?

With several warm spices in this recipe, vanilla plays an important role in balancing the overall flavor. A whole Grade A vanilla bean adds vanilla seeds directly to the cake and frosting.

If you enjoy baking with whole vanilla, explore AayuLuxe Grade A Vanilla Beans for more options suited to homemade desserts and baking.

Looking for more vanilla inspiration? Explore more AayuLuxe vanilla recipes and baking ideas.