Cardamom Crumb Cake – Moist and Fluffy Recipe

Cardamom Crumb Cake is an irresistible take on the traditional crumb cake, featuring the fragrant warmth of cardamom that elevates it to a whole new level. This moist, buttery cake topped with a crumbly streusel is perfect for breakfast or brunch, offering a unique twist on the classic coffee cake. If you love indulgent cakes with a touch of spice, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to impress. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or a simple weekend treat, this cardamom crumb cake is bound to become a favorite.

What Makes Cardamom Crumb Cake So Special?

Cardamom Crumb Cake combines the best elements of classic crumb cake with the exotic flavor of cardamom. The result is a moist, flavorful cake that’s perfect for any time of day. The subtle warmth of cardamom provides a sophisticated twist, transforming a simple breakfast treat into a memorable experience. It’s a family-friendly recipe that’s not only quick to make but also versatile enough to be served at any occasion, from casual brunches to cozy winter mornings.

Ingredients for Cardamom Crumb Cake

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make this delightful cardamom crumb cake:

• All-purpose flour: Provides structure and a soft crumb texture.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and enhances its flavor.
• Unsalted butter: Adds moisture and richness to the cake.
• Milk: Keeps the batter moist and tender.
• Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add to the fluffiness.
• Sour cream: Adds moisture and a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
• Baking powder: Helps the cake rise and become light.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic note to complement the cardamom.
• Cardamom: The star ingredient! This spice imparts a subtle, exotic flavor that elevates the crumb cake to something truly special.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking for alternatives to some ingredients, here are a few suggestions:

• Sour cream substitution: Greek yogurt works well in place of sour cream, adding a similar creamy texture and tang.
• Butter alternative: If you need a dairy-free option, you can substitute butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
• Cardamom variation: While cardamom is the highlight here, cinnamon can be used if you’re after a more familiar flavor, or you can even combine the two spices for a unique twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Cardamom Crumb Cake

Making this delicious cardamom crumb cake is simple. Just follow these easy steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 square baking pan. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a food processor, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and cardamom. Pulse until well mixed. Alternatively, you can mix the dry ingredients by hand in a large bowl.
3. Add the butter, cut into small pieces, to the dry mixture. Pulse 20 times until the mixture becomes crumbly with small pieces of butter distributed throughout.
4. Reserve 1 cup of the crumb mixture and set it aside for the topping.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. Then, add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, stirring just until combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
7. Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture on top of the batter, covering it generously.
8. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.

Once baked, let the cake cool slightly before cutting into it. Enjoy it warm with your favorite beverage, whether it’s coffee, tea, or juice!

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Cardamom Crumb Cake

Here are some tips to ensure your cardamom crumb cake turns out perfectly:

• Don’t skip the resting time: Allow the cake to cool for a bit before slicing. This will help set the crumb structure and make it easier to cut.
• Check the cake early: Since oven temperatures vary, start checking your cake around the 35-minute mark to prevent over-baking.
• Customize the crumbs: You can experiment with the size of the crumbs—larger crumbs will create a more rustic look, while smaller crumbs offer a finer texture.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This cardamom crumb cake is perfect on its own, but you can easily pair it with a variety of sides or variations to suit different tastes.

• Pair with fruit: Serve the cake with fresh fruit like berries or apple slices for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cake.
• Add nuts: For a crunch, sprinkle chopped walnuts or almonds on top of the cake before baking.
• Make it gluten-free: Swap out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, making this cake suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
• Spicy twist: If you want to enhance the spice profile, add a pinch of ground ginger or allspice to the batter.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

This cardamom crumb cake can be stored at room temperature for 2–3 days in an airtight container. If you prefer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to preserve its freshness.

Why Cardamom?

Cardamom is an aromatic spice that adds a warm, floral flavor to baked goods. Its unique taste is not as overpowering as cinnamon, allowing it to complement the richness of the crumb cake without overpowering it. Whether you’re making cakes, cookies, or savory dishes, cardamom can be a fantastic way to elevate your cooking. If you’re new to this spice, using it in this recipe is an easy introduction.

Conclusion

Cardamom Crumb Cake is the perfect combination of rich, buttery cake and the warm, aromatic touch of cardamom. Whether you’re serving it at a special occasion or enjoying it as a comforting treat with your morning coffee, this cake will quickly become a favorite. Its ease of preparation, subtle flavor, and moist crumb make it an irresistible choice for any baker, seasoned or new. With a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a decadent breakfast or dessert that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

This Cardamom Crumb Cake is not only delicious but versatile too. From its crumbly, spiced topping to its soft, flavorful interior, it’s a treat that you can adapt to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Don’t forget to experiment with the ingredients and flavors, like adding nuts or fruit, for even more variations to this already stunning recipe. Enjoy baking and, most importantly, enjoy every bite!

FAQ

More Relevant Recipes

• Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze: These fluffy cinnamon rolls are enhanced with the sweet and tart flavor of raspberries, while the lemon glaze adds a refreshing zing. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch, they pair well with a cup of coffee or tea, much like the spiced notes in cardamom crumb cake.
• Easy Banana Cinnamon Rolls: Combining the warm, comforting flavors of banana and cinnamon, these rolls are a delightful treat for breakfast or dessert. Their sweetness and spice make them a delicious alternative to the cardamom crumb cake for those who enjoy fruity, spiced baked goods.
• Peach Upside-Down Mini Cakes: These mini cakes are made with juicy, caramelized peaches on top, creating a delightful blend of sweetness and acidity. Perfect for those who love fruity flavors in their baked goods, these cakes offer a refreshing twist similar to the richness found in cardamom crumb cake.

Print