Chai Banana Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

Spring is in the air, and what better way to celebrate the season than with a batch of light, warmly spiced Chai Banana Cupcakes? While chai spices are often associated with fall, their floral and citrusy notes pair beautifully with the fresh, bright feeling of spring. These cupcakes are soft, moist, and subtly spiced, making them perfect for an afternoon tea, a garden picnic, or just because! These cupcakes are topped with a chai-infused cream cheese frosting, and a banana chip for decoration.

Why You’ll Love these Cupcakes

• Perfect for spring gatherings – The chai spice adds warmth without being too heavy, making these cupcakes a great transition from winter to spring.
• Moist and tender – Mashed bananas keep these cupcakes soft and fluffy.
• Easy to make – Simple ingredients and a straightforward process make these great for any level of baker.
• Creamy, spiced frosting – The cream cheese frosting adds just the right touch of indulgence.

Flavor Substitutions

Want to experiment with different flavors? Here are some ideas:

• Cinnamon Banana Cupcakes: Replace the chai spice blend with 2 tsp of cinnamon for a simpler but equally delicious variation.
• Vanilla Banana Cupcakes: Omit the chai spice and increase the vanilla extract to 2 tsp for a classic, mellow flavor.
• Chocolate Banana Cupcakes: Add ¼ cup cocoa powder to the dry ingredients and reduce the flour by the same amount for a rich chocolate twist.
• Coconut Banana Cupcakes: Stir in ½ cup shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical take.
• Lemon Spiced Banana Cupcakes: Add 1 tsp lemon zest to the batter for a bright, citrusy contrast to the warm spices.

Final Thoughts

These Chai Banana Cupcakes are a delightful way to bring the warmth of chai spices into a treat that feels just right for spring. Their soft, moist texture and perfectly spiced flavor make them an irresistible addition to any seasonal gathering, from afternoon teas to weekend brunches. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply to enjoy a cozy moment, these cupcakes are sure to brighten your day. Let me know if you try them—I’d love to hear how they turn out! Happy baking! 🍌☕🌸

Print Pin Recipe

Chai Banana Cupcakes

These Chai Banana Cupcakes are a soft and moist treat infused with warm chai spices, making them perfect for springtime gatherings. Topped with a luscious chai-infused cream cheese frosting, they offer the perfect balance of cozy and refreshing flavors.

Course Dessert

Servings 12

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

• 1 1/4 cups mashed ripe bananas about 3 bananas
• 1 3/4 cups all purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 2 tsp chai spice blend see below
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream

Chai Spice Blend

• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp allspice
• 1/8 tsp nutmeg

For the Frosting

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp chai spice blend optional

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
• Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and chai spice blend.
• Prepare wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla, yogurt, and mashed bananas.
• Combine: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
• Fill cupcake liners: Divide the batter evenly among the liners, filling each about ⅔ full.
• Bake: Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely before frosting.
• Make the frosting: Beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in vanilla and chai spice blend (if using).
• Frost and serve: Once cupcakes are cooled, frost them using a piping bag or a knife. Sprinkle extra chai spice or cinnamon on top for decoration.

Storage Tips

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.