Cardamom Crumb Cake Recipe
There is something truly magical about the way spices can transform a simple baked good into a remarkable treat, and that magic shines brilliantly in this Cardamom Crumb Cake. Imagine a tender, moist cake with the nostalgic charm of a classic coffee cake, but elevated with the subtle warmth and floral notes of cardamom. This New York style crumb cake offers a delightful balance between a soft crumb and a fragrant, buttery topping that will have you reaching for seconds (and thirds!) without hesitation. Whether you’re enjoying it with your morning coffee or as an afternoon pick-me-up, this Cardamom Crumb Cake is a cozy, unforgettable bite of comfort and spice that’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to baking this soft and flavorful cake. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, with every ingredient playing a vital role in creating the cake’s perfect texture, buttery richness, and the distinctive aroma of cardamom.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base that provides structure and a tender crumb to the cake.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a moist texture during baking.
- 1 Tbsp baking powder: Your leavening agent to ensure the cake rises beautifully.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 1 Tbsp ground cardamom: The star spice that delivers that warm, exotic fragrance and flavor unique to this cake.
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter: Adds richness, moisture, and that irresistible buttery crumb topping.
- 2/3 cup milk: Brings moisture and helps create a tender crumb.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and provide richness to the batter.
- 1/3 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and extra moisture, making the cake wonderfully soft.
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Deepens the cake’s flavor with sweet floral notes.
How to Make Cardamom Crumb Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures your oven will be nice and hot the moment your batter goes in. Spray a 9×9-inch square baking pan with non-stick spray, and if you want easy removal after baking, line it with parchment paper for a neat, lift-out cake. A properly prepared pan is key to achieving that perfect crumb cake texture without sticking.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
Next, gather your flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cardamom in the bowl of a food processor and pulse together. This step infuses the cardamom evenly throughout your dry mix and ensures a seamless blend. If you don’t have a food processor, no worries—simply whisk these ingredients together in a large mixing bowl. This simple mix lays the foundation for the cake’s tender crumb and enticing aroma.
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
Cut the unsalted butter into small pieces, then add it to your dry ingredient mixture. Pulse around 20 times in the food processor until the mixture turns crumbly and the butter is evenly distributed in tiny pieces. If you prefer doing this by hand, a pastry cutter will do the trick nicely. This crumbly mixture is half of the delicious cardamom-studded crumb topping that gives this cake its iconic texture and flavor.
Step 4: Reserve the Crumbs
Measure out one cup of this crumbly mixture and set it aside. This reserved portion will later become the crumble topping that adds the delightful crunch and buttery finish on top of the soft cake batter in the pan.
Step 5: Make the Batter
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the remaining crumb mixture and stir until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender and airy. This part of the process creates the soft and moist batter that forms the heart of your Cardamom Crumb Cake.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking pan. Then, generously sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture on top, making sure it covers the cake so every bite gets that signature crumbly topping. Pop it in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. The cake will rise tall, filling your kitchen with the inviting aroma of cardamom and butter.
How to Serve Cardamom Crumb Cake
Garnishes
This Cardamom Crumb Cake is beautiful on its own but can be beautifully enhanced with a few simple garnishes. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a delicate sweetness and a pretty finish. You could also serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey to add moisture and a touch of luxury to each bite.
Side Dishes
Pair this crumb cake with a steaming cup of coffee or chai tea to highlight the cardamom’s warm spice notes. A bowl of fresh berries or a citrus fruit salad can bring a fresh, zesty contrast, balancing the cake’s rich buttery texture with bright acidity.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning display, cut the cake into squares and serve on a rustic wooden board for a casual gathering. Alternatively, make mini versions using a muffin tin lined with parchment for individual crumb cakes—perfect for gifting or a charming brunch spread. You can also layer slices with mascarpone and berries to create a quick and elegant coffee cake trifle.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, wrap your Cardamom Crumb Cake tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Stored at room temperature, it will stay fresh and moist for 2-3 days. Keeping it covered properly ensures that the crumb topping stays crisp while the inside remains tender.
Freezing
If you bake ahead or want to save some for later, this crumb cake freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for double protection. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To revive that freshly-baked warmth, gently reheat slices in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid the microwave for reheating if possible, as it might soften the crumb topping. A quick warm-up brings back the luscious buttery aroma and melt-in-your-mouth texture perfectly.
FAQs
Can I substitute cardamom with another spice?
Absolutely! While cardamom gives this crumb cake its unique flavor, cinnamon or allspice make excellent swaps. They provide warm, cozy spice notes that complement the buttery crumbing just as well.
Do I need to use sour cream in the batter?
Sour cream adds moistness and a slight tang that balances the sweetness. You can substitute it with plain Greek yogurt, but using sour cream is best for that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
What if I don’t have a food processor?
No food processor? No problem! Simply whisk dry ingredients together, then cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or two forks until the crumbly texture forms. It’s a bit more hands-on but works beautifully.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that contains xanthan gum. Be sure to use a blend designed for one-to-one substitution to keep the crumb texture intact.
How tall will the cake rise during baking?
This Cardamom Crumb Cake is quite tall thanks to the quantity of batter and baking pan size. Using the recommended 9×9 pan ensures a perfect height and even baking without overflow.
Final Thoughts
Sharing this Cardamom Crumb Cake recipe feels like handing over a little slice of pure joy. It’s simple yet sophisticated, fragrant yet comforting, and with every bite, it tells a story of cozy mornings and heartfelt gatherings. Don’t hesitate—bake a batch, invite loved ones, and watch this divine crumb cake become a cherished tradition in your kitchen.
