Save A warmly spiced, moist loaf inspired by classic chai flavors with notes of cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger—perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat.
I first made this loaf on a rainy morning—the kitchen filled with cozy aromas, and my family couldn&t wait to try a slice fresh from the oven.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups (250 g)
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup (200 g)
- Baking powder: 1 1½ tsp
- Baking soda: ½ tsp
- Salt: ½ tsp
- Ground cinnamon: 2 tsp
- Ground cardamom: 1 tsp
- Ground ginger: ½ tsp
- Ground cloves: ¼ tsp
- Ground nutmeg: ¼ tsp
- Ground black pepper: ⅛ tsp
- Large eggs: 2
- Whole milk: ¾ cup (180 ml)
- Vegetable oil (or melted unsalted butter): ½ cup (120 ml)
- Pure vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Turbinado sugar (optional): 2 tbsp, for crunch
Instructions
- Prep Loaf Pan:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x5-inch (23x13 cm) loaf pan with parchment paper.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and black pepper.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, oil (or melted butter), and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine & Mix:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir gently until just combined (do not overmix).
- Prepare for Baking:
- Pour batter into the loaf pan, smooth top, and sprinkle turbinado sugar if using.
- Bake:
- Bake for 43–48 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool:
- Let loaf cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Save This loaf is always a family favorite—my kids love helping measure the spices, and it vanishes by the next day after we share slices over chai tea.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy slices warm with whipped cream cheese or a light glaze, or pair with a cup of spiced chai tea.
Tools Needed
You'll need a 9x5-inch loaf pan, mixing bowls, whisk, measuring cups, parchment paper, and a wire rack.
Nutrition & Allergens
Contains wheat, eggs, and (if using dairy) milk. Each slice: 225 calories, 8 g fat, 35 g carbs, 4 g protein. Use non-dairy milk for allergies and check ingredient labels for cross-contamination.
Save Try this loaf for your next brunch or cozy baking session—it's fragrant, easy, and a delightful twist on classic muffins.
Cooking Questions
- → What gives this loaf its chai flavor?
A blend of cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and black pepper creates the signature chai aroma and taste.
- → Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, replace whole milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version without sacrificing moisture or flavor.
- → Which nuts can add crunch to this loaf?
Chopped walnuts or pecans can be mixed into the batter for extra texture and flavor.
- → Is it suitable for vegetarians?
The loaf uses eggs and milk but contains no meat, making it vegetarian-friendly. Substitute milk to suit dietary needs.
- → What is the best way to enjoy this treat?
Serve warm or at room temperature, plain or topped with cream cheese or a light glaze. A cup of chai tea complements the flavors.
- → How long should the loaf cool before slicing?
Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack and cool completely before slicing for best texture.