Introduction to Easy Cardamom Coffee Cake
If you're on the hunt for a delightful addition to your breakfast table or a cozy afternoon treat, look no further than Easy Cardamom Coffee Cake. This recipe doesn’t just elevate your typical coffee cake; it introduces the warm, exotic flavor of cardamom that dances beautifully with your morning brew. But what makes this cake truly special?
Imagine a moist, tender cake infused with fragrant cardamom, each bite perfectly complemented by a crunchy, crumbly streusel topping. It's like giving your taste buds a gentle hug! Plus, its simplicity means you can whip it up on a lazy weekend or serve it to guests without breaking a sweat.
The reasons to try this easy cardamom coffee cake go beyond flavor. It’s adaptable, allowing you to add nuts or dried fruits based on your preference. And you won’t even need any fancy equipment—just a mixing bowl and a baking pan. If you’re eager to step up your baking game and impress friends and family, this recipe is your golden ticket.
For more insights into baking techniques and cardamom's health benefits, check out Healthline.
Ingredients for Easy Cardamom Coffee Cake
Creating a delightful easy cardamom coffee cake starts with gathering the right ingredients. This quick breakdown will make your shopping list a breeze!
Essential Ingredients for the Streusel Topping
To achieve that irresistible crunchy topping, you'll need:
- 1⅓ cup (165 grams) all-purpose flour: This is the base for your streusel.
- ⅓ cup (65 grams) dark brown sugar: For sweetness with a hint of molasses flavor.
- ½ teaspoon ground cardamom: This is the star spice that adds warmth and depth.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Just a pinch for extra flavor.
- ⅛ teaspoon Kosher or fine sea salt: Enhances all the other flavors.
- 1 stick (4 ounces or 8 tbsp) unsalted butter, melted and cooled: This binds it all together for that desired crumble.
Key Ingredients for the Cake
The cake itself is rich and flavorful, thanks to:
- 1⅓ cup (165 grams) cake flour: Guarantees a light texture—try to use cake flour for best results!
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: This is crucial for that perfect rise.
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda: Works in tandem with the baking powder.
- ½ teaspoon ground cardamom: Yes, we love cardamom here too!
- ½ teaspoon Kosher or fine sea salt: Brings out the cake's sweetness.
- 6 tablespoon (3 ounces) unsalted butter, room temperature: Creamy and contributes to moisture.
- ¾ cup (6 ounces) white granulated sugar: The sweetness backbone of the cake.
- 2 large eggs, room temperature: Provides structure.
- ⅔ cup (5⅓ ounces) full-fat sour cream, room temperature: Adds a luxurious creaminess.
- 1½ teaspoon vanilla extract: A classic touch that elevates the flavors.
- Powdered sugar for dusting: Optional, but it makes for a lovely presentation!
Ready to start baking? Check out this helpful guide for tips on perfecting your technique. Happy baking!
Step-by-step Preparation of Easy Cardamom Coffee Cake
Creating an easy cardamom coffee cake is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with comforting aromas and sets the stage for a cozy gathering. Ready to dive into this delicious project? Let’s break it down step by step!
Gather your equipment and ingredients
Before you begin, it’s crucial to set yourself up for success. You’ll need:
- Equipment: An 8-inch by 8-inch square baking pan or a 9-inch round baking pan, mixing bowls, a whisk, a spatula, and a hand mixer or stand mixer.
- Ingredients: Check the complete list above for everything needed, from cake flour and unsalted butter to our star ingredient—cardamom. Be sure to have everything measured and ready to go!
Prepare the cardamom streusel topping
This streusel adds a delightful crunch to your cake, balancing its soft texture.
- In a medium bowl, combine:
- 1⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- A pinch of salt
- Pour in 1 stick of melted and cooled unsalted butter. Mix with a fork or your fingers until the texture resembles coarse crumbs. Set this aside, as it will be the crowning glory of your cake.
Mix the dry ingredients for the cake
In a separate bowl, sift together the dry ingredients that will form the heart of your cake:
- 1⅓ cup cake flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
- ½ teaspoon salt
This mixture will help ensure your easy cardamom coffee cake rises beautifully.
Cream the butter and sugar
Using your stand mixer or electric hand mixer, beat together:
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
Tip: Cream them together on high speed for about 3 minutes until the mix is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving that airy texture.
Combine the wet and dry ingredients
Reduce the mixer speed to low, and mix in:
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- ⅔ cup full-fat sour cream (room temperature)
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
Gently add the dry ingredients from earlier in batches, mixing just until no flour streaks remain. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to a dense cake.
Assemble and bake the cake
Pour the cake batter into your prepared baking pan. Spread the streusel topping evenly over the batter, pressing it in slightly.
Bake at 350℉ for 45-55 minutes until it’s golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool and dust with powdered sugar
Once baked, allow your cake to cool to room temperature. For that finishing touch, dust it with powdered sugar just before serving—it makes all the difference!
Enjoy each slice of your easy cardamom coffee cake with coffee or your favorite beverage. It’s the perfect companion to those slow Sunday mornings or as a sweet treat to share with friends. The enticing spices and crumbly topping will surely make you the star of any gathering!
Variations on Easy Cardamom Coffee Cake
Almond and Cardamom Coffee Cake
For a delightful twist on our easy cardamom coffee cake, try incorporating ground almonds into the batter. Simply replace ¼ cup of the cake flour with almond flour. This will lend a nutty richness that beautifully complements the cardamom. You can also add slivered almonds on top of the streusel to add a crunchy texture. Don’t forget to adjust the baking time for a larger or smaller pan!
Gluten-Free Cardamom Coffee Cake
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use almond flour in place of cake flour. Be sure to check your baking powder for gluten-free certification as well. This variation allows everyone to indulge in the aromatic joy of easy cardamom coffee cake, regardless of dietary preferences!
Interested in more variations? Check out our Gluten-Free Baking Guide for tips!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Easy Cardamom Coffee Cake
Tips for achieving the perfect crumb
To ensure your easy cardamom coffee cake has a wonderful, tender crumb, opt for cake flour instead of all-purpose flour for a lighter texture. Make sure not to overmix the batter—mix just until combined to keep it airy. If you can resist the temptation, allowing the cake to cool completely will enhance its structure and flavor profile!
Essential baking notes
- Use room-temperature ingredients, especially butter, eggs, and sour cream, for better emulsification.
- When making the streusel, wait until the melted butter has cooled slightly before mixing; this will avoid clumping.
- Store your cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the fridge for a week to maintain its delectable taste and texture.
Serving Suggestions for Easy Cardamom Coffee Cake
Ideal Pairings with Coffee and Tea
This easy cardamom coffee cake shines when served with your favorite hot beverage. Pair it with a smooth cup of coffee for a delightful morning boost or enjoy it with a robust black tea in the afternoon. The warm spices of cardamom elevate the flavors, making each bite a treat. For a twist, try it with chai tea – the fusion of flavors will surely delight your palate.
Perfect Occasions for Serving
The versatility of easy cardamom coffee cake makes it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy brunch with friends, celebrating a birthday, or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this cake fits right in. It’s also great for holiday gatherings or as a thoughtful gift for coworkers—just slice and serve!
Feel free to check out this great resource for more pairing ideas and tips on hosting your next gathering!
Time Breakdown for Easy Cardamom Coffee Cake
Preparation Time
Getting started on your easy cardamom coffee cake takes just 15 minutes. It's the perfect amount of time to gather your ingredients and whip up the delicious batter, so don’t rush it! Enjoy the process while you measure and mix.
Baking Time
Once in the oven, your cake will bake for 45-55 minutes. Use this time to unwind, sip on a hot cup of coffee, or perhaps sneak in a quick episode of your favorite series.
Total Time
In just over an hour—about 1 hour and 10 minutes—you’ll have a beautifully golden brown cake ready to be the center of attention at any gathering. So set your timer, and get ready to enjoy this delightful treat!
For more delicious baking inspiration, check out resources like King Arthur Baking or Food Network.
Nutritional Facts for Easy Cardamom Coffee Cake
Calories per slice
Each slice of this easy cardamom coffee cake contains approximately 519 calories, making it a satisfying treat that fits into your daily indulgences.
Protein content
With 7.8 grams of protein per slice, it offers a good balance of energy and nourishment, perfect for a breakfast or afternoon snack.
Key vitamins and minerals
This cake is packed with important nutrients, including:
- Calcium: 591 mg
- Iron: 4 mg
- Potassium: 1279 mg
These elements contribute to your overall health while you enjoy a delightful piece of cake. For more information on the nutritional benefits of specific ingredients, check out resources from Healthline and Mayo Clinic.
FAQ about Easy Cardamom Coffee Cake
Can I substitute cardamom with other spices?
Absolutely! If you're looking to switch things up, consider using cinnamon or nutmeg as substitutes. While they won't deliver the same unique warmth of cardamom, they can add a delightful flavor twist to your easy cardamom coffee cake. You can even try combining them for a more complex taste!
How do I store leftover coffee cake?
To keep your easy cardamom coffee cake fresh, wrap it tightly in aluminum or plastic wrap, and store it at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, refrigerating the cake can keep it good for about a week. However, be mindful that refrigeration may cause it to dry out more quickly.
Can I freeze the cardamom coffee cake?
Yes, you can freeze your easy cardamom coffee cake. Just wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in foil to protect it from freezer burn. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, and you’ll have a delicious treat ready in no time!
For more storage tips, check out this article from The Spruce Eats on cake storage.
Conclusion on Easy Cardamom Coffee Cake
In summary, this easy cardamom coffee cake is a delightful treat that elevates any occasion. With its unique spice blend and crunchy streusel topping, it's perfect for brunch or dessert. Don't hesitate to whip up this recipe, and share it with friends for a cozy gathering!
Easy Cardamom Coffee Cake
Equipment
- 8-inch by 8-inch square baking pan or 9-inch round baking pan
Ingredients
For the Cardamom Streusel Topping
- 1.33 cup all-purpose flour (165 grams)
- 0.33 cup dark brown sugar (65 grams)
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.125 teaspoon Kosher or fine sea salt
- 1 stick unsalted butter, melted and cooled (4 ounces or 8 tbsp)
For the Cake
- 1.33 cup cake flour (165 grams)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.25 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 0.5 teaspoon Kosher or fine sea salt
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter room temperature (3 ounces)
- 0.75 cup white granulated sugar (6 ounces)
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 0.67 cup full-fat sour cream room temperature (5⅓ ounces)
- 1.5 teaspoons vanilla extract
- powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
For the Cardamom Streusel Topping
- In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, cardamom, cinnamon, and salt. Add the melted butter to the flour mixture, then using a fork, mix the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside until ready to use.
For the Cake
- Preheat the oven to 350℉. Grease an 8-inch by 8-inch square baking pan with butter or baking spray. Set aside.
- In a medium bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, cardamom, and salt. Set aside.
- Using a stand mixer or electric hand mixer, cream the butter and sugar on high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Reduce the speed to low and add the eggs, sour cream, and vanilla. Mix until combined. Add the flour in a few batches and mix on low until no flour streaks remain. Do not overmix.
- Add the batter to the prepared baking pan. Distribute the streusel evenly over the top, gently pressing it into the batter. Bake at 350℉ for 45-55 minutes until a tester comes out clean and the top is lightly golden brown. Allow to cool to room temperature, then dust with powdered sugar if using.
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