Save A whimsical, decadent dessert featuring layers of chai-spiced cake, creamy cheesecake, tender apples, and caramel, all stacked on skewers for a playful twist on classic fall flavors.
The first time I made these muffin skewers, my kitchen was filled with the aromas of chai and caramel, instantly reminding me of autumn. Assembling them was so much fun, and watching everyone pull apart their skewers and savor each layer was a highlight of the afternoon.
Ingredients
- Chai Cake: 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar, 1/4 cup (60 ml) vegetable oil, 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk, 1 large egg, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/4 tsp salt, 1 1/2 tsp ground chai spice blend (cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, black pepper), 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Cheesecake Layer: 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese (softened), 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar, 1 large egg, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Apple Filling: 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and diced), 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1 tsp lemon juice
- Caramel Sauce: 1/2 cup (120 ml) store-bought or homemade caramel sauce
- Muffin Skewer Assembly: 8 wooden or bamboo skewers, Optional: extra chai spice for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Muffin Pan:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
- Mix Chai Cake Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and chai spices. In a separate bowl, whisk oil, milk, egg, and vanilla. Combine wet and dry ingredients just until mixed.
- Make Cheesecake Layer:
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add egg and vanilla, mixing until creamy.
- Layer Muffins:
- Fill each muffin cup with 1 heaping tablespoon of chai cake batter. Add 1 tablespoon cheesecake mixture on top. Repeat with another layer of chai cake batter, filling cups about 3/4 full.
- Bake Muffins:
- Bake for 20–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the cake part comes out clean. Cool completely on a wire rack.
- Make Apple Filling:
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Cook, stirring, until apples are tender and caramelized, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat and cool.
- Slice Muffins:
- Slice cooled muffins horizontally into two even rounds.
- Assemble Skewers:
- On each skewer, thread a slice of muffin, spoonful of apple filling, drizzle of caramel sauce, and repeat to create 2–3 layers. Top with extra caramel and chai spice if desired.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately or chill for 15 minutes to firm the texture.
Save My family loves to help layer each skewer and drizzle the final caramel on top. These desserts turn every gathering into a fun hands-on treat, and watching everyone build their own combinations adds laughter to dessert time.
Required Tools
Muffin tin, mixing bowls, electric mixer or whisk, skillet, wooden or bamboo skewers, wire rack
Allergen Information
Contains: Egg, Milk/Dairy, Wheat/Gluten. May contain: Tree nuts (if using pecans as a variation). Always check labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per skewer: Calories 340, Total Fat 16 g, Carbohydrates 45 g, Protein 5 g
Save Serve these whimsical skewers chilled or at room temperature for the best taste. Their playful presentation makes them a perfect showstopper for autumn gatherings.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do you achieve chai spice flavor?
Chai spice blend combines cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, and black pepper, mixed into the cake batter for robust flavor.
- → Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, either store-bought or homemade caramel sauce works well for drizzling and layering within the skewers.
- → Are there fruit alternatives for apple?
Pears may be substituted for apples, introducing a unique twist while maintaining sweet and tender fruit layers.
- → What is the purpose of chilling the skewers?
Chilling helps to firm up layers for easier handling, especially when serving or transporting the skewers.
- → Which beverages pair best with these skewers?
Chai tea and spiced cider complement the flavors, enhancing the warming spices and sweetness found in each bite.
- → Can the dessert be made ahead?
Individual components can be prepared in advance; assemble the skewers just before serving to preserve texture and freshness.