Save to Pinterest Start your morning with the warming aroma of freshly baked Cardamom Coffee Cake. This recipe features a tender, aromatic crumb infused with cardamom, perfectly balanced by a crunchy brown sugar-cardamom streusel topping. It is an elegant and comforting treat that pairs wonderfully with your favorite hot beverage.
Save to Pinterest The secret to this cake's incredible texture is the combination of sour cream and whole milk, which ensures every slice remains moist and tender. The cardamom-infused streusel adds a delightful crunch that makes every bite special.
Ingredients
- Streusel Topping
- 1/2 cup (100 g) packed light brown sugar
- 1/3 cup (42 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp fine sea salt
- 3 tbsp (45 g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- Cake Batter
- 1 1/2 cups (195 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
- 1 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2/3 cup (160 ml) sour cream
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) whole milk
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23 cm) square baking pan and line with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Step 2
- Prepare the streusel: In a medium bowl, mix the brown sugar, flour, cardamom, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold butter and rub with your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture forms clumps. Refrigerate until ready to use.
- Step 3
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cardamom for the cake batter.
- Step 4
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Mix in vanilla extract.
- Step 5
- On low speed, add half of the flour mixture to the butter mixture, followed by the sour cream and milk. Add the remaining flour mixture and mix just until combined. Do not overmix.
- Step 6
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter.
- Step 7
- Bake for 38–42 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- Step 8
- Cool the cake in the pan for 15 minutes, then use the parchment overhang to lift it out. Cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To achieve the best rise, ensure your eggs are at room temperature and your butter is properly softened before starting. When mixing the dry and wet ingredients, use a low speed on your electric mixer and stop as soon as they are combined to avoid a tough crumb.
Varianten und Anpassungen
If you want to add more crunch, mix 1/2 cup of chopped toasted walnuts or pecans into the streusel topping. For those looking for a different dairy option, Greek yogurt works as a great substitute for sour cream and provides a similar tang and moisture.
Serviervorschläge
This cardamom coffee cake pairs beautifully with a strong cup of black coffee, a creamy latte, or a spicy chai tea. Serve it slightly warm to enjoy the full aromatic profile of the spices.
Save to Pinterest Whether you are hosting a brunch or simply treating yourself to a cozy afternoon, this Cardamom Coffee Cake is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use freshly ground cardamom instead of pre-ground?
Yes, freshly ground cardamom pods will provide even more vibrant flavor. Grind about 12-15 whole pods to get 1 teaspoon of ground spice.
- → How should I store this coffee cake?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap well and freeze for up to 3 months.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Bake the cake up to 24 hours before serving. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together.
- → What can I use instead of sour cream?
Greek yogurt works beautifully as a substitute. You can also use full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version, though the texture may vary slightly.
- → Why is my streusel not clumping together?
Make sure your butter is cold and cut into small cubes before mixing. If the butter gets too warm, the streusel won't form proper clumps. You can also refrigerate the mixture for 10-15 minutes if needed.
- → Can I add nuts to the streusel?
Yes, toasted walnuts or pecans add wonderful crunch and flavor. Add about 1/2 cup chopped nuts to the streusel mixture before sprinkling over the batter.