Cardamom Cake Recipe

If you’ve ever wanted to bring a little magic to your baking, this Cardamom Cake is the perfect place to start. Soft and fluffy with a beautiful aroma that fills your kitchen the moment it’s in the oven, this cake captures the warm, spicy notes of ground cardamom in a way that’s cozy and elegant all at once. Whether you’re enjoying it alongside your afternoon tea or sharing it as a lovely homemade treat, the Cardamom Cake is a truly irresistible delight that’s as simple as it is special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Nothing fancy here, just essential ingredients that come together to create the perfect balance of flavor, moistness, and texture. Each component plays a key role in making this Cardamom Cake a standout treat.

• 200g all-purpose flour: The base that gives the cake its tender crumb and structure.
• 1 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise to a light and fluffy perfection.
• ¼ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
• 1 ½ tsp ground cardamom: The star spice, bringing signature warmth and aromatic notes.
• 150g unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and a silky smooth texture.
• 200g granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake just right while helping with tenderness.
• 2 large eggs: Provide moisture and help bind everything together.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor with a gentle sweetness.
• 120ml whole milk: Keeps the batter moist and light.
• ¼ cup sour cream (optional): Adds a subtle tang and extra moistness for a decadent crumb.
• 2 tbsp pearl sugar (optional, for topping): Gives a delightful crunch and pretty finishing touch.

How to Make Cardamom Cake

Step 1: Prepare and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F) and preparing your cake pan by greasing and lining it with parchment paper. This ensures your Cardamom Cake will come out easily without sticking and bake evenly.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cardamom. This step is crucial for distributing the warm cardamom evenly throughout the batter so every bite is fragrant and flavorful.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a mixer, beat softened butter and granulated sugar for 3 to 4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creates a beautiful base that traps air, giving your Cardamom Cake its lovely lift and texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to keep the batter smooth and homogenous. Stir in vanilla extract for that comforting aroma that complements the cardamom perfectly.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can toughen the cake, so it’s important to keep it gentle. If using sour cream, fold it in now to add moistness and a subtle tang.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Sprinkle pearl sugar if you’re using it—the tiny crystals add an irresistible crunch and sparkle. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, allow your Cardamom Cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting time helps the texture set so it’s perfect for slicing without crumbling.

How to Serve Cardamom Cake

Garnishes

Simple touches like a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of honey, or a few fresh berries can elevate your Cardamom Cake visually and flavor-wise. Edible flowers or a sprig of mint also add a delightful decorative finish.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee or a soothing cup of chai tea, enhancing the spiced experience. For a more indulgent twist, serve alongside whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for contrasting textures and temperatures.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice and layer your Cardamom Cake with layers of cream cheese frosting or lemon curd for a dazzling dessert centerpiece. Alternatively, cut into small squares and serve on a platter for a charming bite-sized treat at gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your Cardamom Cake tightly or store it in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it fresh for up to 3 days. This cake maintains its softness beautifully when stored properly.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, slice the cake and freeze the pieces individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or let them sit at room temperature to bring back that freshly baked softness. Avoid overheating to preserve the delicate crumb and fragrant cardamom aroma.

FAQs

Can I use ground cinnamon instead of cardamom?

While cinnamon brings wonderful warmth, cardamom has a unique citrusy and floral flavor that sets this cake apart. For the true Cardamom Cake experience, it’s best to stick with cardamom or try blending both spices.

Is sour cream necessary in this recipe?

Sour cream is optional but recommended because it adds moisture and a slight tang that complements the cardamom beautifully. If you prefer, you can leave it out, but expect a slightly less tender crumb.

How can I make this cake vegan?

To make a vegan Cardamom Cake, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative, use flax eggs or other egg replacements, and swap milk with your favorite non-dairy milk. Adjust baking times as needed and keep textures in mind.

What is pearl sugar and can I omit it?

Pearl sugar consists of large, coarse sugar crystals that don’t melt easily, adding delightful crunchy bursts on top of baked goods. You can omit it if unavailable; the cake will still shine without it.

Can I add nuts or citrus zest?

Absolutely! Adding chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds or a bit of orange or lemon zest can brighten up the flavor, creating exciting texture and fresh notes that complement the cardamom nicely.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, once you try this Cardamom Cake, it’ll quickly become one of your go-to recipes for anytime you want something that’s easy to make but impossible to forget. The scent alone is enough to warm any room, and the flavor is a delightful balance of spice and sweetness. Give it a whirl—you truly can’t go wrong with a slice of this cozy, fluffy cake in front of you.