Introduction to Cardamom Coffee Cake
When it comes to delightful baked goods, cardamom coffee cake is a must-try! This unique take on traditional coffee cake brings a warm, exotic flavor that elevates your everyday dessert experience. If you’ve never baked with cardamom before, you’re in for a treat! Its aromatic profile has hints of citrus and spice, adding depth to the sweet, buttery cake.
Why is this coffee cake an absolute essential for your recipe collection? First, it pairs beautifully with your morning brew or afternoon tea, making it a versatile option for any time of the day. The irresistible crumb topping, made from browned butter, brown sugar, and spices, adds a crunchy texture that perfectly contrasts with the moist cake underneath.
Plus, cardamom isn't just tasty—it's been praised for its potential health benefits, such as aiding digestion and boosting mood. So, why not indulge in a delicious slice while also treating your body well?
Get your baking essentials ready, and let's dive into the full recipe for this delectable cardamom coffee cake that will surely impress friends and family alike!
Ingredients for Cardamom Coffee Cake
Essential ingredients you’ll need
To create this delightful cardamom coffee cake, you'll want to gather some essential ingredients that play a significant role in achieving that perfect flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Salted Butter: 1 cup, browned for rich flavor
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 ½ cups for the cake and crumb topping
- Brown Sugar: 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons for sweetness
- Sugar: 1 cup for the batter
- Eggs: 3 large, at room temperature to help the cake rise
- Sour Cream: ½ cup, adding moisture and tanginess
- Milk: ¼ cup, also at room temperature for a smooth batter
- Cinnamon: 2 teaspoons for warmth
- Cardamom: 2 ½ teaspoons, delivering that signature flavor
Optional add-ins and enhancements
Feel like adding a twist? Here are some optional add-ins that can elevate your cardamom coffee cake:
- Chopped Nuts: Walnuts or almonds can add texture and crunch.
- Dried Fruit: Raisins or cranberries can introduce a delightful chewiness.
- Chocolate Chips: For a sweet surprise, mix in some dark chocolate chips.
- Citrus Zest: A teaspoon of orange or lemon zest can add a refreshing brightness.
Getting creative with these enhancements will undoubtedly make your cake unforgettable! You can learn more about how these ingredients affect baking in general at Serious Eats.
Preparing Cardamom Coffee Cake
Creating a delicious cardamom coffee cake is not just about following a recipe; it’s a delightful experience that brings warmth and flavor into your kitchen. In this section, I'll walk you through each step to ensure your cake turns out perfectly. Let's dive in!
Gather Your Equipment
Before you get started, it’s essential to have all your tools in place. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 8x8 Square Pan: This will be your baking vessel.
- Stand Mixer or Electric Hand Mixer: Either will work, but a stand mixer can make it easier to incorporate air into your batter.
- Mixing Bowls: A couple of mixing bowls will help keep your prep organized.
Once you have everything ready, you’re set to move on to the next step!
Prepare the Crumb Topping
The crumb topping gives the cake its signature texture and flavor. Here’s how to whip it up:
- Brown your butter over medium heat until golden and fragrant.
- Reserve 4 tablespoons of this browned butter for the topping.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ¾ cup flour, ½ cup brown sugar, ½ teaspoon cardamom, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
- Mix in the reserved butter until crumbles form. Chill this mixture in the refrigerator while you prepare the rest of the cake.
A quick tip: chilling the crumb topping helps it maintain its delightful texture during baking.
Create the Cinnamon Swirl Filling
Let’s add another layer of flavor with the cinnamon swirl filling.
- In a bowl, mix together ¾ cup brown sugar, 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon, 1 teaspoon cardamom, and 3 tablespoons flour.
- Whisk until combined and set aside.
This sweet filling will create a beautiful marbling effect when baked into the cake.
Make the Cake Batter
Now it’s time to bring it all together with the cake batter.
- Ensure your browned butter has cooled to room temperature. Then, beat it with 1 cup sugar and 2 tablespoons brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract and almond extract.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, cardamom, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Gradually incorporate these dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with ½ cup sour cream and ¼ cup milk until just combined.
Remember, overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so mix until just combined!
Layer and Bake the Cake
It’s finally time to assemble and bake your cardamom coffee cake!
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line your 8x8 pan with parchment paper.
- Spread half of the batter into your prepared pan.
- Add the cinnamon filling over this first layer of batter, then spread the remaining batter on top, ensuring it’s fully covered.
- Finally, sprinkle the chilled crumb topping over the cake.
Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean or with a few crumbs. Afterward, allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
Now, take a moment to enjoy the sweet aroma filling your home—you’ve just created a delightful cardamom coffee cake!
For a perfect pairing, consider checking out this guide on coffee pairings for the ultimate coffee experience with your cake. Happy baking!
Variations on Cardamom Coffee Cake
Nutty Cardamom Coffee Cake
For a delightful twist, consider adding chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans to your cardamom coffee cake batter. This variation not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds a satisfying crunch. Just fold in about a cup of your favorite nuts before pouring the batter into the pan. You can also sprinkle some on top of the crumb topping for an extra nutty bite. This delicious addition pairs beautifully with the aromatic spices and makes your coffee cake even more indulgent.
Vegan Cardamom Coffee Cake
If you’re looking for a plant-based option, try a vegan cardamom coffee cake. Substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg), and use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative to replace the browned butter. For the sour cream, you can use coconut yogurt or a homemade cashew cream. Not only does this keep the cake moist, but it also retains those delicious cardamom flavors everyone loves. Enjoy every moist, spiced slice with your favorite plant-based milk—perfect for a cozy afternoon!
For more variations and ideas, check out sites like Minimalist Baker and AllRecipes.
Baking notes for Cardamom Coffee Cake
Temperature tips for perfect results
For the perfect cardamom coffee cake, ensure all your ingredients, especially the butter, eggs, and sour cream, are at room temperature. This helps your batter mix smoothly and rise beautifully, creating that light, tender crumb we all love. Take a few minutes to let your ingredients warm up before diving into your baking adventure!
Storage advice for freshness
To keep your cardamom coffee cake fresh, let it cool completely before storing it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, or place it in an airtight container. This will help maintain its moisture for up to three days at room temperature, or you can refrigerate it for a week. If you want to savor it longer, consider freezing individual slices—just thaw at room temperature when you're ready to enjoy! For more tips on cake storage, check out this helpful guide.
Serving suggestions for Cardamom Coffee Cake
Best pairings with coffee and tea
The delightful flavors of cardamom coffee cake make it an exquisite companion for your morning coffee or afternoon tea. Pair it with a rich dark roast or a smooth latte to complement the cake’s spiced notes. For a cozy tea time, consider a fragrant chai or an herbal tea infused with cardamom for a harmonious match.
Dessert options for gatherings
When entertaining, offer slices of cardamom coffee cake alongside a variety of fruit, like fresh berries or poached pears. For a special touch, serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a light cream cheese frosting. Not only does this cake shine on its own, but it also makes a wonderful centerpiece for dessert buffets. After all, who can resist a slice of this spiced delight?
Time Breakdown for Cardamom Coffee Cake
Preparation Time
Before we dive into the deliciousness, you’ll need about 30 minutes to gather your ingredients and prep. This includes browning your butter and mixing up that delightful crumb topping.
Cooking Time
The magic happens in the oven! Bake your cardamom coffee cake for 55 minutes. You'll want to keep an eye on it towards the end, ensuring it's perfectly golden and moist.
Cooling Time
Once it’s out of the oven, let your cake cool for about 1 hour. This step is crucial for achieving the ideal texture and flavor, plus it makes it easier to slice and serve!
For more tips on baking times and techniques, check out resources like King Arthur Baking for insights that can elevate your baking skills.
Nutritional Facts for Cardamom Coffee Cake
Calories per serving
Each serving of this delightful cardamom coffee cake contains approximately 552 calories. A perfect treat that balances indulgence with the satiety needed for a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon snack.
Key nutrients overview
This cake packs a punch with key nutrients, including:
- Carbohydrates: 74g - Providing necessary energy for the day.
- Fat: 25g - Essential for flavor and moisture, with 15g being saturated fat.
- Protein: 8g - Helps repair tissues and keeps you feeling full.
- Sugar: 38g - Adds to the sweetness but can be moderated based on your preference.
While this cardamom coffee cake is delicious, it’s wise to enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet. For more on healthy eating, check out Healthline.
Consider pairing it with a cup of herbal tea or a smoothie for a nutritious boost!
FAQs about Cardamom Coffee Cake
Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?
Absolutely! Cardamom coffee cake is quite versatile. You can swap the sour cream for plain yogurt or buttermilk if you're looking for a lighter option. If you’re out of almond extract, vanilla extract alone can do the trick! For those avoiding gluten, consider using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just remember that these changes can slightly impact the texture and flavor, but experimenting is part of the fun!
How do I know when the cake is done?
Great question! Start checking your cake around the 55-minute mark. Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your cardamom coffee cake is ready. Keep in mind, overbaking can lead to a dry cake, so keeping an eye on it is key!
What’s the best way to store leftover cake?
To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to three months. Just allow it to thaw at room temperature before enjoying that delicious slice!
Conclusion on Cardamom Coffee Cake
This cardamom coffee cake is more than just a dessert; it's an experience! The rich spices and moist texture make it a delightful companion for your coffee or tea. Whether for brunch or a cozy evening, this cake is sure to impress. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
Cardamom Coffee Cake
Equipment
- 8x8 Square Pan
- Stand Mixer or Electric Hand Mixer
- mixing bowls
Ingredients
Cake Layer
- 1 cup Salted Butter browned
- 10 tablespoon Browned Butter see instructions
- 1 cup Sugar
- 2 tablespoon Brown Sugar
- 3 large Eggs room temperature
- 1.5 teaspoon Vanilla Extract room temperature
- 0.25 teaspoon Almond Extract
- 0.5 cup Sour Cream room temperature
- 0.25 cup Milk room temperature
- 1.75 cups Cake or All Purpose Flour
- 1 teaspoon Cardamom
- 0.5 teaspoon Cinnamon
- 0.25 teaspoon Baking Soda
- 0.5 teaspoon Kosher Salt
Cinnamon Swirl Filling
- 0.75 cup Brown Sugar
- 1.5 teaspoon Cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon Cardamom
- 3 tablespoon All Purpose Flour
Crumb Topping
- 0.75 cup All Purpose Flour
- 0.5 cup Brown Sugar
- 0.5 teaspoon Cardamom
- 0.5 teaspoon Cinnamon
- 4 tablespoon Browned Butter see instructions
- 1 pinch Kosher Salt
Instructions
Preparation
- Add 1 cup of butter to a skillet over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt and then brown. Once you begin to see golden brown and foamy flecks in the butter, remove from the heat.
- Remove 4 tbsps of butter and place into a bowl for the streusel topping. Then add flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, and a pinch of salt. Mix together until crumbles begin to form. Place in the refrigerator.
- Allow the remainder of the browned butter to come back to room temperature, this will take about 1 hour.
- While you're waiting for the butter to solidify, make the filling by combining brown sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, and flour in a bowl. Whisk together and set aside.
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line an 8x8 square pan with parchment paper.
- When the butter is back to room temperature and has slightly solidified, add to a mixing bowl along with sugar and brown sugar. Use an electric hand mixer to mix together for about 1-2 minutes, until combined. Then add eggs, one at a time.
- Add in the vanilla extract and almond extract. Mix until just combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cardamom, cinnamon, baking soda, and kosher salt. Whisk together and set aside.
- Add half of the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined, about 20 seconds. Then add sour cream and milk and mix until combined, about 20 seconds. Then add the remainder of the dry ingredients and mix until fully incorporated, about 10-15 seconds.
- Add half of the coffee cake batter to the bottom of the prepared pan. Smooth into an even layer. Then add the filling on top of the batter. Add the remaining batter on top, ensuring that the filling is fully covered.
- Remove the streusel from the refrigerator and sprinkle on top of the batter. Bake for 50-60 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cake comes out with just a few crumbs.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove onto a wire rack to cool completely.
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