Name: Irresistible Cardamom Coffee Cake Recipe with Crumb Topping Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: ½ cup butter (salted, at room temperature) (can use unsalted butter for less salty flavor); 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark brown sugar can be used interchangeably); 1 cup all-purpose flour (ensure to spoon and level when measuring); ½ teaspoon kosher salt (use table salt in a pinch but reduce to ¼ teaspoon); ½ teaspoon ground ginger (optional for a milder spice); 1 teaspoon ground cardamom (can substitute with cinnamon, but flavor will differ); ½ cup vegetable oil (substitute with any neutral oil); ½ cup Greek yogurt (can replace with sour cream or buttermilk); 3 tablespoons 2% milk (can substitute with any milk type); 2 large eggs (use room temperature eggs for best incorporation); 1 cup sugar (granulated) (can reduce slightly if desired); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (use pure vanilla extract for the best aroma); 1½ cups all-purpose flour (scoop and level when measuring); 1 teaspoon baking powder (ensure it’s fresh for effectiveness); ½ teaspoon kosher salt (can use table salt but reduce amount); ½ cup butter (cold & cubed) (keep it chilled for the best crumb texture); ½ cup all-purpose flour (measuring accurately keeps the topping from being too dense); ½ cup brown sugar (light or dark works well here too); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional but highly recommended); ½ teaspoon kosher salt (can use table salt in a pinch)

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There’s a special kind of magic that fills the air when you bake a cake. The comforting aroma of cardamom wafting through your kitchen transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary. I stumbled upon this delightful Cardamom Coffee Cake with Crumb Topping during a cozy weekend spent experimenting with spices. The unique floral notes from the cardamom dance beautifully with the sweetness of brown sugar, creating a cake that’s just as perfect for a festive brunch as it is for a quiet morning spent savoring coffee.

What I love most about this recipe is how effortlessly it comes together, making it a crowd-pleaser that impresses without the fuss. With a soft, moist crumb and that irresistible crumb topping, one slice is never enough! Imagine indulging in a slice while catching up with friends or celebrating a special occasion—it’s simply the perfect companion, inviting warmth and smiles wherever it’s served. Let’s dive into the details of creating this delectable treat that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why is this Irresistible Cardamom Coffee Cake a must-try?

Warm, Inviting Aroma: The aroma of cardamom fills your kitchen, creating an unforgettable baking experience.
Effortlessly Delightful: Quick and simple to prepare, this recipe shines as a crowd-pleaser!
Perfectly Moist Crumb: Expect a soft and delicious texture that’ll keep everyone coming back for more.
Versatile Serving Options: Ideal for brunches or intimate coffee breaks, it fits every occasion seamlessly.
Grand Crumb Topping: The crunchy topping adds another layer of indulgence, making each bite a treat.
Enhance your baking repertoire with this delightful Cardamom Coffee Cake, and enjoy endless compliments, especially alongside your favorite beverage!

Irresistible Cardamom Coffee Cake Ingredients

• Create a wonderful baking experience with these essential ingredients!

For the Batter

½ cup butter (salted, at room temperature) – Provides rich flavor and moisture; can use unsalted butter for less salty flavor.
1 cup brown sugar – Adds moisture and a rich caramel taste; light or dark brown sugar can be used interchangeably.
1 cup all-purpose flour – Essential for structure; ensure to spoon and level when measuring.
½ teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness; use table salt in a pinch but reduce to ¼ teaspoon.
½ teaspoon ground ginger – Adds warm, spicy notes that complement cardamom; optional for a milder spice.
1 teaspoon ground cardamom – The star spice providing unique floral warmth; can substitute with cinnamon, but the flavor will differ.
½ cup vegetable oil – Keeps the cake moist; substitute with any neutral oil like canola or sunflower.
½ cup Greek yogurt – Adds moisture and tanginess; can replace with sour cream or buttermilk.
3 tablespoons 2% milk – Helps adjust cake batter consistency; can substitute with any milk type.
2 large eggs – Necessary for binding ingredients; use room temperature eggs for best incorporation.
1 cup sugar (granulated) – Adds sweetness without overwhelming flavors; can reduce slightly if desired.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances overall flavor; use pure vanilla extract for the best aroma.
1½ cups all-purpose flour – Extra flour ensures the right cake structure; spoon and level when measuring.
1 teaspoon baking powder – A leavening agent that helps the cake rise; ensure it’s fresh for effectiveness.
½ teaspoon kosher salt – Further enhances flavor; can use table salt but reduce amount.

For the Crumb Topping

½ cup butter (cold & cubed) – Adds a rich and buttery texture to the topping; keep it chilled for the best crumb texture.
½ cup all-purpose flour – Forms the base of the crumb mixture; measuring accurately keeps the topping from being too dense.
½ cup brown sugar – Adds a caramel note; light or dark works well here too.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Enhances warmth and spice; optional but highly recommended for additional depth.
½ teaspoon kosher salt – Balances the sweetness of the crumb topping; can use table salt in a pinch.

This Irresistible Cardamom Coffee Cake Recipe with Crumb Topping will surely become a cherished part of your baking adventures!

How to Make Irresistible Cardamom Coffee Cake

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8- or 9-inch baking pan by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray. This makes sure your cake comes out effortlessly!
Make Crumb Topping: In a mixing bowl, combine the cold cubed butter, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon (if using), and kosher salt. Mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with varied sizes— this adds the perfect texture to your topping.
Prepare Cake Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, Greek yogurt, milk, eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will create a lovely base for your cake.
Combine Dry Ingredients: Lightly sprinkle over the extra all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt into the wet mixture. Gently fold together until no dry flour streaks remain, ensuring a beautifully combined batter.
Layer and Bake: Pour half of the batter into your prepared pan. Sprinkle half of the crumb topping evenly over the batter, then drizzle the remaining batter on top, finishing with the rest of the crumb mixture. It’s all about those delightful layers!
Bake: Place the cake in the oven and bake for 35-45 minutes. It’s done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, let it cool for 25-30 minutes before slicing.

Optional: Drizzle with a simple glaze for a sweeter finish!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Irresistible Cardamom Coffee Cake?

Imagine the warm, inviting aroma of this cake mingling with delightful accompaniments that make every bite even more special.

Freshly Brewed Coffee: The rich, bold flavor of coffee perfectly enhances the floral notes of the cake, making it the ideal pairing for a cozy morning.
Spiced Chai Latte: This warm, spiced drink complements the cake’s cardamom beautifully, creating a comforting experience that feels like a warm hug.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a luscious touch, balancing the sweetness and enhancing the cake’s crumbly topping.
Seasonal Fruit Salad: A zesty fruit medley brings freshness and vibrant colors to your table, contrasting with the cake’s rich flavors for a balanced bite.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream serves as a delightful contrast to the warm cake, melting blissfully with each spoonful.
Nutty Granola: Sprinkle some granola on top for an added crunch. The nuts and oats pair wonderfully with the cake’s texture, making each bite interesting.
Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of chocolate can enhance the richness for those with a sweet tooth, creating a decadent twist to every slice.
Sparkling Lemonade: The bright, fizzy flavor of lemonade cuts through the sweetness, refreshing your palate with each sip alongside the cake.
Lemon Zest Glaze: Drizzle a zesty glaze for an extra layer of flavor; its tanginess pairs well with the cake’s sweetness, elevating your dessert experience.

Expert Tips for Irresistible Cardamom Coffee Cake

Ingredient Temperature: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature; this helps create a smooth batter and a light-textured cake.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until dry ingredients are combined; overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so be gentle with your folds.
Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cake as it bakes; ovens can vary, and it’s best to check a few minutes earlier than the suggested time for perfect results.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh baking powder and spices for the best flavor; stale ingredients can diminish the cake’s delightful cardamom aroma.
Prevent Sinking: When layering the batter and crumb topping, pat down gently to ensure even baking and prevent the topping from sinking during the rise.

Follow these tips for the best Irresistible Cardamom Coffee Cake experience that everyone will love!

How to Store and Freeze Irresistible Cardamom Coffee Cake

Room Temperature: Store the cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its moist texture and flavor.

Fridge: If you want to keep it fresh longer, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to a week; let it come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Freezer: Wrap individual slices of the cardamom coffee cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months, allowing for convenient serving whenever the craving strikes!

Reheating: To reheat, unwrap and place slices in a microwave for 10-15 seconds, or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for a fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.

Cardamom Coffee Cake Variations

Feel free to get creative and enhance your Cardamom Coffee Cake with these delightful variations!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a tasty alternative that everyone can enjoy.
Nutty Twist: Add ½ cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds to the batter for a delightful crunch. They bring a wonderful earthy flavor that complements the cardamom beautifully.
Fruity Surprise: Fold in 1 cup of diced apples or sliced pears into the batter for added moisture and a hint of sweetness. This juicy addition makes every bite even more enjoyable.
Citrusy Zing: Incorporate the zest of one orange or lemon into the batter for a refreshing twist that brightens the warm flavors beautifully. It adds such a lovely aroma too!
Cinnamon Swirl: Before adding the crumb topping, sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon and sugar (1 tablespoon cinnamon, 2 tablespoons sugar) on the batter for an extra layer of flavor that’ll surprise your taste buds.
Coffee Infusion: Replace some of the milk with brewed coffee or espresso for a rich coffee flavor that pairs perfectly with the cardamom and elevates your coffee cake experience.
Choco-Cardamom Delight: Stir in ½ cup of chocolate chips into the batter for a sweet contrast to the floral notes of cardamom. Trust me; chocolate makes everything better!
Vegan Option: Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and replace dairy with plant-based yogurt and milk for a vegan-friendly treat that everyone will love!

With these fun twists, your Cardamom Coffee Cake can transform into a new favorite each time you make it. Happy baking!

Make Ahead Options

These Irresistible Cardamom Coffee Cake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their baking experience! You can prepare the crumb topping and the cake batter up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, simply make the crumb topping and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the cake batter, whisk all the wet ingredients separately, then combine with the dry ingredients, cover well, and refrigerate as well. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the batter into your prepared pan, sprinkle with the crumb topping, and bake. This method maintains the cake’s delightful texture and ensures you can enjoy fresh, warm coffee cake without the last-minute rush!

Irresistible Cardamom Coffee Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of cardamom should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using ground cardamom for the best flavor. Avoid using whole cardamom pods unless you have a spice grinder; the ground version captures the floral warmth that’s essential to the cake’s taste.

How can I tell if my ingredients are fresh?
Check the expiration dates on your baking powder and spices. For freshness, ground spices should have a strong aroma; if they smell faint or lack flavor, it’s time to replace them.

How should I store leftovers?
Store your irresistible cardamom coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep it moist. If you’d like to enjoy it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week—simply let it come to room temperature before serving!

Can I freeze the coffee cake?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. This layering prevents freezer burn. The cake can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator or enjoy a slice directly from the freezer for a cool treat.

What should I do if my cake is too dry?
To prevent dryness, be cautious not to overmix the batter, and avoid extending the baking time. If you find your cake has dried out, consider serving it with a drizzle of glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for added moisture and sweetness!

Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes! This cardamom coffee cake does not contain nuts. However, always ensure that your baking ingredients, like flour or yogurt, haven’t been processed in facilities that handle nuts, to avoid cross-contamination.