Classic Swedish Cardamom Cake (kardemummakaka) Recipe

Swedish cardamom cake, also known as kardemummakaka, is a beloved Scandinavian treat that’s known for its warm, aromatic flavor. With the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, this cake is a must-try for anyone who appreciates the bold flavor of cardamom. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or served as a dessert after a cozy meal, Swedish cardamom cake is sure to impress with its rich taste and soft texture.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to create this spiced cake, explain why cardamom is such a popular ingredient in Swedish baking, and offer tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time.

Why Swedish Cardamom Cake Is So Popular

Cardamom has been a staple spice in Scandinavian baking for centuries, and its unique, aromatic flavor is what makes Swedish cardamom cake so irresistible. The warm, slightly sweet spice adds depth to the cake, giving it a distinct taste that you won’t find in other traditional cakes.

The texture of Swedish cardamom cake is another reason it’s so loved. The cake is soft, light, and slightly dense, yet it melts in your mouth. It’s often enjoyed as a fika treat (a Swedish coffee break) and is perfect for pairing with a hot drink. The cake is also a wonderful addition to holiday celebrations and special occasions, as it’s not overly sweet but still deeply flavorful.

Ingredients for Swedish Cardamom Cake

Before you begin, gather the following ingredients to make this flavorful cake:

For the Cake:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk

For the Glaze:

• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons milk
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

These simple ingredients come together to create a fragrant, spiced cake with a sweet glaze that adds a perfect finishing touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the steps to make this traditional Swedish cake.

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or a loaf pan, ensuring it’s well-prepared to prevent sticking. You can also line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground cardamom, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that the dry ingredients are well-distributed and helps the cake rise evenly.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer or hand whisk. Beat for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is essential for creating a soft, airy cake texture.

4. Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure everything is fully incorporated before moving to the next step.

5. Add the Dry Ingredients and Milk

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and sugar mixture, alternating with the whole milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. The batter should be thick but smooth.

6. Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top of the cake should be golden brown, and the edges should pull slightly away from the sides of the pan.

7. Cool the Cake

Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Afterward, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.

8. Prepare the Glaze

While the cake is cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract (if using) in a small bowl. The glaze should be smooth and pourable. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed.

9. Drizzle the Glaze

Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top. The glaze will add a subtle sweetness that complements the cardamom flavor and gives the cake a beautiful shine.

Tips for the Best Swedish Cardamom Cake

To ensure your Swedish cardamom cake turns out just right, here are a few helpful tips:

• Use fresh cardamom: Ground cardamom can lose its flavor over time, so try to use freshly ground cardamom for the best flavor. If you have whole cardamom pods, you can grind them yourself.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined to ensure a light and airy texture.
• Allow the cake to cool before glazing: Let the cake cool completely before adding the glaze. This prevents the glaze from melting and losing its glossy texture.
• Add a touch of almond extract: For an extra depth of flavor, you can add a small amount of almond extract to the batter or the glaze.

Storing and Freezing Swedish Cardamom Cake

Swedish cardamom cake is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers for later. Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The cake will remain soft and delicious.

If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze it. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the cake at room temperature and glaze it before serving.

FAQs

Q: Can I use ground cinnamon instead of cardamom?
A: While cinnamon can be used as a substitute, it will change the flavor profile of the cake. Cardamom has a unique, floral, and spicy flavor that gives Swedish cardamom cake its distinct taste. However, cinnamon can still work well if you don’t have cardamom on hand.

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes! This cake is actually better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together. You can make it a day ahead and store it at room temperature. Just glaze it right before serving.

Q: Can I make this cake in a different pan?
A: Yes, you can use a square pan or a loaf pan, but be sure to adjust the baking time based on the pan size. A larger pan will result in a thinner cake, so check for doneness earlier.

Q: Can I add nuts or fruit to the cake?
A: Absolutely! You can add chopped almonds or walnuts to the batter for added texture. Some people also like to fold in raisins or apple slices for a fruity variation.

Why You Should Try Swedish Cardamom Cake

Swedish cardamom cake is a comforting, flavorful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The fragrant aroma of cardamom fills your kitchen as the cake bakes, making it irresistible from the moment it’s out of the oven. Whether you’re enjoying it with coffee or serving it at a special event, this cake offers a unique twist on traditional desserts with its soft texture and delicate spice. The simplicity of the ingredients makes it easy to bake, while the depth of flavor keeps everyone coming back for more.

Final Thoughts

Swedish cardamom cake is a wonderful addition to your baking journey. With its light, spongy texture and aromatic cardamom flavor, it’s a cake that’s simple to make yet always impressive. Serve it for afternoon tea, share it at a family gathering, or enjoy a slice whenever you’re in the mood for a comforting, homemade treat. Follow the easy steps in this recipe, and you’ll be enjoying a slice of Sweden’s finest cake in no time.