Nothing beats the aromatic allure of freshly baked cardamom cake wafting through your kitchen. This Scandinavian-inspired treat transforms your ordinary baking routine into something truly extraordinary with its warm spiced fragrance and tender crumb.
We’ve perfected this cardamom cake recipe to deliver that perfect balance of sweet and spice that’ll have your family asking for seconds. The secret lies in using freshly ground cardamom pods – they release oils that create an incredibly fragrant cake that’s both exotic and comforting.
What makes this recipe special? It’s surprisingly simple yet produces bakery-quality results every time. Whether you’re hosting a coffee date or need an impressive dessert for dinner guests this cardamom cake delivers sophisticated flavor without complicated techniques. The subtle spice pairs beautifully with everything from vanilla ice cream to fresh berries.
Ingredients
We’ve carefully selected each ingredient to create the perfect balance of aromatic spice and tender crumb. Our cardamom cake requires simple pantry staples enhanced by the star ingredient that makes this dessert truly special.
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon freshly ground cardamom (from about 20-25 green cardamom pods)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup whole milk, room temperature
- 1/4 cup sour cream
For the Cardamom Glaze
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 3-4 tablespoons whole milk
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground cardamom
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Equipment Needed
Creating this aromatic cardamom cake requires standard baking equipment that most home bakers already have in their kitchens. We recommend gathering all tools before starting to ensure a smooth baking process.
An electric mixer serves as our most important tool for achieving the perfect texture. Either a hand mixer or stand mixer with paddle attachment works well for aerating the batter and creating that coveted light, fluffy crumb we’re after.
For the baking vessel, we have several excellent options depending on your preference:
| Pan Type | Capacity/Size | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Bundt pan | 10-cup capacity | Traditional presentation |
| Springform pan | Standard size | Easy removal |
| Round cake tin | 22-23 cm diameter | Classic layer cake |
A pastry brush becomes essential when greasing intricate Bundt molds or ensuring even coverage on any pan surface. We find this tool particularly helpful for achieving professional results.
Measuring tools ensure accuracy in our recipe. We need both measuring cups for larger quantities and measuring spoons for precise amounts of cardamom and other spices.
The mortar and pestle or spice grinder stands out as crucial equipment for maximum flavor impact. Grinding whole cardamom pods just before baking releases oils that pre-ground cardamom simply cannot match.
Additional tools include mixing bowls for combining ingredients, a spatula for folding and scraping batter, and a whisk for blending. We also need a sieve for flour and a cooling rack for the finished cake.
Most recipes benefit from lining pans with parchment paper, which makes removal effortless and prevents sticking. We preheat our ovens to 180°C/350°F following standard baking practices to ensure even cooking throughout.
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create our aromatic cardamom cake that delivers bakery-quality results every time. We’ll guide you through each stage to ensure perfect texture and flavor.
Prep the Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before beginning any mixing. Grease your springform cake pan thoroughly with butter, ensuring you cover all surfaces including the sides. Line the bottom with parchment paper for effortless removal once baked. This preparation step prevents sticking and guarantees our cake releases cleanly from the pan.
Prepare the Cardamom
Extract the seeds from cardamom pods and measure ½ to 1 tablespoon depending on your preferred intensity level. Grind the seeds using a mortar and pestle until they form a fine powder. This grinding process releases the essential aromatic oils that give our cake its distinctive Swedish character. Fresh grinding creates significantly more fragrant results than pre-ground cardamom.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
Combine 1.5 to 2 cups all-purpose flour with 1.5 teaspoons baking powder in a medium bowl. Add ½ teaspoon salt to enhance the overall flavor profile. Whisk in your freshly ground cardamom until evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture. This thorough incorporation ensures consistent spice distribution in every bite.
Cream Butter and Sugar
Beat ½ to 1 cup unsalted butter with 1 cup granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium-high speed. Continue mixing for 3-4 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy in texture. Proper creaming incorporates air into our batter, creating the tender crumb we desire. The mixture should appear pale yellow and significantly increased in volume.
Add Wet Ingredients
Incorporate 2 eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure complete integration. Pour in ½ cup milk gradually while mixing on low speed until the mixture appears smooth and homogeneous. Room temperature ingredients blend more easily and create a smoother batter consistency.
Combine and Mix
Add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients in three separate additions. Mix on low speed just until the flour disappears and the batter comes together. Overmixing develops gluten strands that create tough texture, so we stop as soon as no flour streaks remain visible.
Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread evenly using a spatula. Bake for 35-45 minutes until a wooden skewer inserted into the center emerges clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The cake surface should spring back lightly when touched and pull slightly away from the pan edges. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Make the Cardamom Glaze
Transform your finished cardamom cake into a bakery-worthy masterpiece with this aromatic glaze that perfectly complements the spiced crumb. We create this simple yet elegant topping using just a few pantry staples that enhance the cake’s natural cardamom essence.
Start by sifting 1 cup of powdered sugar into a medium mixing bowl to eliminate any lumps. Add ¼ teaspoon of freshly ground cardamom to the sugar and whisk together until evenly distributed. The fresh cardamom provides the same aromatic intensity that makes our cake so distinctive.
Pour 2-3 tablespoons of whole milk into the sugar mixture gradually while whisking continuously. Begin with 2 tablespoons and assess the consistency before adding more liquid. Our goal is achieving a smooth glaze that flows easily from a spoon but maintains enough body to coat the cake surface without running off completely.
Whisk the mixture vigorously for 30-45 seconds until no lumps remain and the glaze appears glossy. Test the consistency by lifting your whisk and observing how the glaze falls back into the bowl. Perfect glaze should create a ribbon that holds its shape for 2-3 seconds before dissolving back into the mixture.
Adjust the texture as needed by adding more powdered sugar to thicken or additional milk to thin. We recommend making these adjustments in small increments of 1 tablespoon at a time to avoid overcompensating.
Apply the glaze immediately while your cake has cooled completely but the glaze remains at room temperature. Pour the mixture over the center of your cake and use a pastry brush or offset spatula to guide it evenly across the surface. The glaze will set within 10-15 minutes and create a beautiful finishing touch that highlights every slice.
Assembly and Finishing
Pan Preparation and Setup
We begin by preheating our oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking throughout. Our cake pan needs proper preparation with a light coating of butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. For those wanting to create a stunning caramelized almond topping, we sprinkle brown sugar and sliced almonds directly onto the bottom of our prepared pan before adding the batter.
Batter Assembly Process
Our dry ingredients require thorough whisking in a separate bowl, combining flour, sugar, cardamom, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly distributed. The wet ingredients get their own mixing bowl where we blend olive oil, yogurt, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth. We gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients using careful strokes to avoid overmixing, which could result in a tough cake texture.
Baking and Initial Cooling
The prepared batter transfers smoothly into our pan, and we level the surface with a gentle shake or spatula. Round cakes typically require 25-30 minutes of baking time, while Bundt cakes need approximately one hour until a toothpick inserted in the center emerges clean. We allow the finished cake to rest in the pan for several minutes before transferring it to a wire rack for complete cooling.
| Cake Type | Baking Time | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Round Cake | 25-30 minutes | 350°F (175°C) |
| Bundt Cake | ~60 minutes | 350°F (175°C) |
Final Presentation Techniques
Carefully flipping the cooled cake onto our serving plate reveals the beautiful almond topping if we chose that option. A light dusting of powdered sugar combined with a pinch of ground cardamom creates an elegant finish that enhances the cake’s visual appeal. Swedish cardamom cake traditions often include glazing after complete cooling, which we can apply using our previously prepared cardamom glaze for a professional bakery appearance.
The finished cake showcases our careful attention to detail through its golden exterior and aromatic cardamom fragrance that fills the kitchen.
Storage Instructions
After creating this aromatic cardamom masterpiece, we want to ensure it maintains its tender texture and delicate spice flavors for as long as possible. Proper storage techniques will help preserve the cake’s quality and extend its enjoyment.
Room Temperature Storage
We recommend storing our cardamom cake in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal freshness. The cake maintains its best texture and flavor profile when kept this way for up to 2 days. Before storing, we always ensure the cake has cooled completely to prevent condensation from forming inside the container.
Refrigerator Storage
For longer preservation, we wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container before refrigerating. This storage method keeps our cardamom cake fresh for up to one week while maintaining its moist crumb. The refrigerator option works particularly well for glazed versions, as the cool temperature helps set the glaze properly.
Freezing for Extended Storage
When we need to store the cake for longer periods, freezing becomes our best option. We wrap the cake double in plastic food wrap, then cover it completely with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Our frozen cardamom cake maintains its quality for up to one month using this method.
| Storage Method | Duration | Container Type |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 2 days | Airtight container |
| Refrigerator | Up to 1 week | Plastic wrap or airtight container |
| Freezer | Up to 1 month | Double plastic wrap + aluminum foil |
Important Storage Tips
We always allow the cake to thaw at room temperature when removing it from the freezer. This gradual thawing process helps maintain the cake’s original texture and prevents condensation issues. For frozen cakes, we recommend applying any glaze after thawing rather than before freezing to achieve the best presentation and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Our aromatic cardamom cake shines brightest when paired thoughtfully with complementary flavors and textures. We recommend embracing the Swedish tradition of fika by serving generous slices alongside freshly brewed coffee or your favorite tea blend. This classic combination allows the cake’s delicate spice notes to harmonize beautifully with warm beverages.
Traditional Accompaniments
Powdered sugar dusting creates an elegant finishing touch while amplifying the cardamom’s fragrance. Mix ground cardamom directly into powdered sugar before dusting for an extra aromatic boost that enhances both visual appeal and flavor intensity.
Fresh berries make exceptional companions to our cardamom cake. Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries provide bright acidity that balances the warm spice perfectly. We suggest arranging them alongside each slice or creating a simple berry compote for drizzling.
Temperature and Timing Considerations
Cooling time plays a crucial role in serving success. Allow the cake to rest for 10 to 20 minutes after baking before slicing. This resting period ensures clean cuts and optimal texture while preventing the cake from crumbling.
| Serving Temperature | Best For | Texture Result |
|---|---|---|
| Slightly warm | Coffee service | Tender, aromatic |
| Room temperature | Tea time | Firm, clean slices |
| Chilled | Summer serving | Dense, refreshing |
Creative Presentation Options
Layer cake transformations elevate our basic recipe into celebration-worthy desserts. Bake additional layers and assemble with jam and whipped cream for special occasions. This approach creates impressive height while maintaining the cardamom’s starring role.
Caramelized almond toppings offer sophisticated flair when inverted after baking. The almonds create a gorgeous golden crown that we enhance with additional cardamom sugar dusting. This technique transforms our simple cake into a bakery-style masterpiece.
Versatile Serving Occasions
Morning gatherings benefit from cardamom cake’s gentle spice profile. We serve it as a breakfast treat for houseguests or during leisurely weekend brunches. The cake’s not-too-sweet nature makes it perfect for early-day enjoyment.
Afternoon snacking becomes more luxurious with cardamom cake portions. Keep slices readily available throughout the day for impromptu treats that satisfy without overwhelming. The aromatic qualities provide a pleasant pick-me-up during busy schedules.
Storage for Optimal Serving
Room temperature storage in airtight containers maintains our cake’s tender crumb for up to two days. This storage method preserves the cardamom’s essential oils while keeping the texture perfectly moist for serving.
Make-Ahead Tips
Planning ahead with this cardamom cake becomes incredibly simple when you understand proper storage techniques. We recommend letting your freshly baked cake cool completely before wrapping or storing to prevent condensation from affecting the texture.
Room temperature storage works perfectly for short-term planning. Your cake maintains its tender crumb and aromatic cardamom flavor for 2-3 days when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. This method preserves the cake’s moisture while keeping the delicate spice notes intact.
Refrigeration extends your cake’s lifespan significantly. We suggest storing your wrapped cardamom cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness. Always allow the cake to return to room temperature before serving to restore its ideal texture and enhance the cardamom’s warming flavors.
Baking and assembling your cake a full day in advance creates the perfect make-ahead strategy. Store your completed cake at room temperature overnight using a cake dome or large covered container. This approach actually improves the flavor as the cardamom continues to infuse throughout the cake.
The cake’s flavor development truly shines with time. While delicious on the first day your cardamom cake tastes even better after the spices have had time to meld and deepen. This characteristic makes it an excellent choice for entertaining when you want to prepare dessert in advance.
Freezing provides the longest storage option for your cardamom cake. Wrap cooled cake portions in double layers of plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Your cake maintains its quality for up to one month when frozen properly and thawed at room temperature before serving.
Conclusion
We’ve shared everything you need to create this stunning cardamom cake that’ll become your go-to recipe for special occasions. The combination of freshly ground cardamom and simple techniques produces results that rival any professional bakery.
This versatile cake works beautifully whether you’re hosting an elegant dinner party or enjoying a quiet afternoon with coffee. The aromatic spice creates an unforgettable experience that’ll have your guests asking for the recipe.
With proper storage techniques and our make-ahead tips you can enjoy this delightful treat for days or prepare it well in advance for stress-free entertaining. We’re confident this cardamom cake will earn a permanent spot in your baking repertoire.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cardamom cake and where does it originate from?
Cardamom cake is an aromatic dessert inspired by Scandinavian baking traditions. It features freshly ground cardamom pods as the star ingredient, creating a tender, spiced cake with bakery-quality results. The subtle spice flavor makes it perfect for various occasions, from casual coffee dates to elegant dinner parties.
What are the main ingredients needed for cardamom cake?
The main ingredients include pantry staples like all-purpose flour, baking powder, and unsalted butter, along with freshly ground cardamom pods. For the cardamom glaze, you’ll need powdered sugar, freshly ground cardamom, and whole milk. Fresh cardamom is essential for achieving the best aromatic flavor.
What equipment do I need to make cardamom cake?
Essential equipment includes an electric mixer for light, fluffy texture, various pan options (Bundt, springform, or round cake tins), mixing bowls, measuring tools, a whisk, spatula, and cooling rack. You’ll also need a mortar and pestle or spice grinder for cardamom, plus parchment paper for easy removal.
How do I make the cardamom glaze?
The cardamom glaze combines powdered sugar, freshly ground cardamom, and whole milk. Mix until you achieve the right consistency – not too thick or thin. Apply the glaze while the cake is completely cooled but the glaze is at room temperature for the best finish and flavor enhancement.
How should I store cardamom cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week when wrapped tightly. For longer storage, freeze for up to 1 month using double plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Always let the cake cool completely before storing.
What are the best serving suggestions for cardamom cake?
Serve with coffee or tea to complement the delicate spice notes. Traditional accompaniments include powdered sugar dusting and fresh berries, which provide bright acidity to balance the warm spice. The cake works well for breakfast, afternoon snacks, or as an elegant dessert with vanilla ice cream.
Can I make cardamom cake ahead of time?
Yes, cardamom cake can be made 1-3 days in advance. The flavors actually improve as the spices meld over time. Store properly wrapped at room temperature or refrigerated. For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted cake and apply glaze after thawing for best presentation and flavor.
What’s the proper baking temperature and time for cardamom cake?
Preheat your oven to 180°C/350°F for even cooking. Baking times vary depending on pan type – typically 45-60 minutes for Bundt pans and 25-35 minutes for round cake pans. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
