Name: Chai Latte Cupcakes with Caramel Buttercream Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 38 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 2 teaspoons chai spice mix; ½ cup milk; ¼ cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 large egg; ½ cup water; 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened; 2 teaspoons cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon ground cloves; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 3 ½ cups powdered sugar; 2 teaspoons caramel syrup; 12 Anise stars (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 4 reviews

If you have a soft spot for the cozy warmth of a chai latte and the rich sweetness of caramel, then you are going to absolutely adore this Chai Latte Cupcakes with Caramel Buttercream Frosting Recipe. Imagine moist, spiced cupcakes infused with the aromatic chai blend, crowned with a buttery, caramel-kissed frosting that’s nothing short of irresistible. These cupcakes bring the comforting flavors of your favorite coffeehouse treat right into your kitchen, making them perfect for any day you want a little sweetness and spice in your life.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sitting on a white marbled surface holds several layers of ingredients before mixing. At the bottom, there is white flour, covering most of the bowl's base. Resting lightly on top of the flour is a raw egg with a bright yellow yolk clearly visible in the center. Around the egg are various liquids: a tan liquid pooling on the left side, a pale brown liquid on the right, and a few small clear bubbles scattered on top. Small clumps of white flour float on the surface of the liquids, creating texture contrasts. A few cinnamon sticks and a tea bag lie nearby on the white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is straightforward but crucial—each component plays its part in layers of flavor, texture, and that classic chai aroma. From the all-purpose flour that forms a tender base to the chai spice mix that delivers the signature warmth, everything is simple yet essential.

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and softness for the cupcakes.
1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter while helping with texture.
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder: Provides the rise and lightness needed.
2 teaspoons chai spice mix: The heart of the cupcake, offering cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and more.
½ cup milk: Adds moisture for tenderness.
¼ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cupcakes moist with a delicate crumb.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the warm flavors and aroma.
1 large egg: Binds ingredients together while adding richness.
½ cup water: Helps create a smooth, thin batter for even baking.
1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened (for frosting): The creamy base of the caramel buttercream.
2 teaspoons cinnamon (for frosting): Adds a gentle spice echoing the chai flavors.
¼ teaspoon ground cloves: Provides a subtle, warm depth.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for frosting): Brings balance and smoothness.
3 ½ cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to perfection.
2 teaspoons caramel syrup: The star of the frosting, giving that luscious caramel touch.
12 Anise stars (optional): For a beautiful, aromatic garnish.

How to Make Chai Latte Cupcakes with Caramel Buttercream Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line a 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners to make cleanup a breeze and to ensure each cupcake retains its shape beautifully.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and the magical chai spice mix. This combination sets the foundation for those unforgettable chai flavors, so mix until everything is evenly combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients and Make the Batter

Into the dry mix, pour the milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, egg, and water. Beat the mixture until smooth and well blended—the batter will be wonderfully thin, which means your cupcakes will come out moist and tender every time.

Step 4: Bake the Cupcakes

Fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full. Pop the pan into the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove the cupcakes and let them cool on a wire rack before frosting.

Step 5: Make the Caramel Buttercream Frosting

While the cupcakes cool, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth. Add cinnamon, ground cloves, and vanilla extract, blending well to infuse the warm spices. Slowly add the powdered sugar, mixing on medium speed until you get that perfect fluffy consistency. Finish by swirling in the caramel syrup for that rich, decadent sweetness.

Step 6: Frost and Garnish the Cupcakes

Transfer your frosting to a piping bag for a beautiful finish. Pipe generous swirls on top of each cupcake, then sprinkle with a little cinnamon. If you’re feeling fancy, place an anise star on each cupcake for a striking, aromatic topper that’ll impress your guests.

How to Serve Chai Latte Cupcakes with Caramel Buttercream Frosting Recipe

A close-up view of three cupcakes on a wooden round board placed on a white marbled surface. Each cupcake has one layer of light golden cake inside a black liner. On top, there is a thick swirl of light beige frosting sprinkled with a fine dusting of brown cinnamon powder. Each swirl is topped with a single dark brown star anise as decoration. In the background, two cinnamon sticks lie on the white marbled surface. The lighting is bright and soft, making the frosting look creamy and smooth. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

These cupcakes shine with simple garnishes that highlight their spiced and caramel notes. Cinnamon dusting adds warmth visually and in taste, while anise stars bring a unique, slightly licorice aroma that pairs beautifully with the chai spices. You can also try a light drizzle of extra caramel syrup for added gloss and sweetness.

Side Dishes

Serve these cupcakes alongside a creamy chai tea or a smooth latte for an elevated snack or dessert experience. They also pair wonderfully with fresh fruit like sliced pears or apples, tying together the cozy spice theme without overwhelming the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, arrange these cupcakes on a tiered stand dotted with edible flowers or sprinkle some crushed pistachios on top for a touch of color and crunch. If you’re gifting them, wrap each cupcake in a clear box with a cinnamon stick tied to the top for an inviting presentation that speaks to all the senses.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once frosted, store your cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to four days. Keeping them covered will prevent the frosting from drying out while maintaining cupcake freshness.

Freezing

You can freeze unfrosted cupcakes by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and frost fresh for the best taste. Frosted cupcakes are best enjoyed fresh, but can be frozen carefully with firm frosting for shorter periods.

Reheating

For an extra cozy treat, gently warm your cupcake in the microwave for about 10 seconds. This will soften the cake and help the caramel buttercream release those enchanting flavors. Just be careful not to overheat, or you might melt the frosting too much.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought chai spice instead of making my own mix?

Absolutely! Pre-made chai spice blends work wonderfully and can save time. Just make sure the blend has the classic spices like cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves to keep that signature chai flavor.

Is it possible to make these cupcakes dairy-free?

Yes! You can substitute the milk with almond or oat milk and use a dairy-free butter alternative for the frosting. The texture might be slightly different but the flavor will still be deliciously spiced and sweet.

Can I bake these cupcakes ahead of time without frosting?

Definitely. Baking the cupcakes the day before and frosting them fresh keeps them moist and the frosting looking its best. Store the unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container overnight at room temperature.

How spicy are these cupcakes?

The chai spice mix provides a warm, gentle spice combining cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and ginger. They are not hot or overwhelming, but pleasantly aromatic and comforting for most palates.

What can I substitute for caramel syrup if I don’t have any?

If you don’t have caramel syrup, you can melt some caramel candies with a tablespoon of cream to create a quick caramel sauce. Maple syrup or honey can add sweetness, but the signature caramel flavor is best replicated with caramel syrup.

Final Thoughts

Trying out this Chai Latte Cupcakes with Caramel Buttercream Frosting Recipe will bring a warm, comforting treat right to your table, perfect for chilly afternoons or casual get-togethers. The blend of spicy chai and rich caramel buttercream is absolutely unforgettable. I encourage you to grab your mixing bowl and give this cozy cupcake recipe a whirl—you might just find your new favorite dessert.