Desirably effortless, this tender Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting will evoke the very essence of fall with its sweet spice and fragrant frosting. Ideal for gatherings, cozy family dinners, or simply enjoying a slice with a warm cup of tea, this cake is sure to delight everyone. The combination of pumpkin and chai spices creates a comforting flavor profile that stands out during the autumn season.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Cake
- For the Brown Butter Frosting
- How to Make Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting | URBAN BAKES
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
- Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
- Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
- Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
- Step 6: Bake
- Step 7: Make Brown Butter Frosting
- Step 8: Frost Your Cake
- How to Serve Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting | URBAN BAKES
- For a Cozy Evening
- At a Gathering
- For Afternoon Tea
- How to Perfect Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting | URBAN BAKES
- Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting | URBAN BAKES
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting | URBAN BAKES
- Reheating Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting | URBAN BAKES
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other types of flour?
- How do I make this cake dairy-free?
- Can I add nuts to my Pumpkin Chai Cake?
- What is the best way to serve Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting?
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The blend of pumpkin and chai spices delivers a warm, inviting taste that captures the spirit of fall.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, anyone can whip up this delightful cake.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual dessert, this cake fits right in.
- Moist and Tender Texture: The perfect balance of moisture from the pumpkin ensures each bite is soft and flavorful.
- Stunning Presentation: Topped with brown butter frosting, this cake looks just as good as it tastes.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to make the process smooth. Having everything ready will ensure your baking experience is enjoyable and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking pan (9×13 inches)
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: This tool makes it easier to achieve a light and fluffy batter by fully incorporating air into the mixture.
- Baking pan (9×13 inches): The ideal size for even baking, ensuring that your cake rises perfectly without being too thick.

Ingredients
For the Cake
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Ground cinnamon
- Ground ginger
- Ground nutmeg
- Pumpkin puree
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
- Vegetable oil
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
For the Brown Butter Frosting
- Unsalted butter
- Powdered sugar
- Milk or alternative milk (as needed)
- Vanilla extract
How to Make Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting | URBAN BAKES
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Properly preheating ensures even baking for your cake.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes for easy removal after baking.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the following dry ingredients:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking powder
3. Baking soda
4. Salt
5. Ground cinnamon
6. Ground ginger
7. Ground nutmeg
Whisk them together until evenly mixed.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together:
1. Pumpkin puree
2. Granulated sugar
3. Brown sugar
4. Vegetable oil
5. Eggs
6. Vanilla extract
Mix until smooth and well combined.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture while stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Make Brown Butter Frosting
While the cake cools, prepare your brown butter frosting:
1. Melt unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it turns golden brown.
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar with cooled brown butter and vanilla extract.
4. Add milk gradually until you reach your desired consistency for spreading.
Step 8: Frost Your Cake
Once the cake has completely cooled, spread an even layer of brown butter frosting on top using a spatula.
Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting, perfect for any fall occasion!
How to Serve Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting | URBAN BAKES
This delightful Pumpkin Chai Cake is perfect for any gathering or celebration. Its warm spices and sweet frosting make it an ideal dessert for fall festivities.
For a Cozy Evening
- Pair with Hot Tea: Enjoy a slice alongside your favorite spiced tea for a comforting experience.
- Serve Warm: Warm individual pieces slightly in the microwave to enhance the flavors and soften the frosting.
At a Gathering
- Cut into Squares: Slice the cake into squares for easy serving at parties or potlucks.
- Add Whipped Cream: Top each piece with a dollop of whipped cream for extra richness.
For Afternoon Tea
- Include Seasonal Fruits: Serve with fresh apples or pears for a refreshing contrast.
- Accompany with Cheese: Pair with mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese to balance the sweetness.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting | URBAN BAKES
Achieving the perfect Pumpkin Chai Cake takes some care, but these tips will help you succeed every time.
- Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices enhance flavor; consider grinding your own cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Check Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer for accurate baking results.
- Don’t Overmix Batter: Gently fold in the dry ingredients to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the brown butter frosting to avoid melting.
- Store Properly: Keep leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for optimal freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting | URBAN BAKES
While this cake is delightful on its own, certain side dishes can elevate your dessert experience even further.
- Spiced Nuts: Roasted mixed nuts seasoned with cinnamon and nutmeg pair well with the flavors of the cake.
- Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce adds a burst of flavor that complements the sweetness of the cake.
- Caramel Apples: Sliced apples dipped in caramel provide a crunchy, sweet contrast to the soft cake texture.
- Cheese Board: A simple cheese board featuring mild cheeses can balance out the rich flavors of your dessert.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers a refreshing taste that complements the spices in chai.
- Pumpkin Soup: A warm pumpkin soup can serve as a cozy appetizer before enjoying your cake, enhancing the pumpkin theme.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a perfect Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting can be simple, but a few common mistakes may hinder your success.
- Boldly measuring ingredients: Not using proper measurements can ruin the cake’s texture. Always use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
- Boldly skipping spices: Omitting chai spices will lessen the flavor. Use fresh spices to enhance the cake’s aroma and taste.
- Boldly underbaking or overbaking: Baking for too short or long a time can lead to a dry or soggy cake. Use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean.
- Boldly neglecting cooling time: Cutting into the cake too soon can cause it to crumble. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
- Boldly rushing the frosting: Applying frosting on a warm cake can melt it away. Wait until the cake has cooled completely for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Pumpkin Chai Cake in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting | URBAN BAKES
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Properly stored, it can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting | URBAN BAKES
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Warm individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds or until heated.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding the Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting.
Can I use other types of flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
How do I make this cake dairy-free?
You can replace butter with plant-based margarine and use dairy-free milk alternatives in the recipe.
Can I add nuts to my Pumpkin Chai Cake?
Absolutely! Walnuts or pecans work great as an added crunch and flavor enhancement.
What is the best way to serve Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting?
Serve chilled or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with tea or coffee!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use a gluten-free all-purpose flour mix instead of regular flour.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting is not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy evenings at home, you can customize it by adding nuts or changing up spices. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices
Description
Indulge in the flavors of autumn with this delightful Pumpkin Chai Cake With Brown Butter Frosting. This moist and tender cake combines the warm spices of chai with the sweet essence of pumpkin, creating a dessert that truly embodies fall. Perfect for gatherings, cozy nights in, or simply enjoying a slice with your favorite hot beverage, this cake is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Topped with a rich brown butter frosting, it’s a treat that will impress anyone at your table. Easy to make and even easier to love, this recipe is a must-try for any fall occasion.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Ground cinnamon
- Ground ginger
- Ground nutmeg
- Pumpkin puree
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
- Vegetable oil
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Unsalted butter
- Powdered sugar
- Milk or alternative milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In one bowl, mix all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- For the frosting, melt unsalted butter in a saucepan until golden brown. Mix with powdered sugar and vanilla extract; add milk as needed for consistency.
- Frost the cooled cake evenly with the brown butter frosting.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg





