Authentic Swedish Cardamom Cake

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There’s something deeply comforting about the scent of freshly ground cardamom wafting through your kitchen as this Swedish classic bakes to golden perfection. Authentic Swedish Cardamom Cake, also known as “Kardemummakaka” in Sweden, is a tender, buttery cake enriched with warm spice and simplicity. Each bite offers a soft crumb and fragrant sweetness that perfectly pairs with a morning coffee or cozy evening tea.

This cake is often found on Swedish fika tables—a traditional coffee break that includes pastries and good conversation. It carries the soul of Scandinavian baking: modest, flavorful, and full of warmth. If you’re looking for a slice of tradition that’s unfussy yet unforgettable, this cardamom cake is it.

Why You’ll Love This Authentic Swedish Cardamom Cake

What makes this cake a keeper is how effortlessly it blends pantry staples into something so aromatic and special. The rich, buttery base is infused with freshly ground cardamom, a spice that’s citrusy, floral, and just exotic enough to be intriguing without overwhelming. It’s quick to mix, bakes beautifully, and keeps well, making it a go-to for both entertaining and everyday indulgence.

What Kind of Cardamom Should I Use?

The key to this cake lies in using freshly ground green cardamom pods rather than pre-ground spice. The flavor is worlds apart—vibrant, almost lemony, with a slightly peppery finish. You can crush the pods and grind the seeds in a spice grinder or mortar and pestle for the most aromatic result. If pre-ground is all you have, just make sure it’s fresh and stored properly for best flavor.

Ingredients for the Authentic Swedish Cardamom Cake

This cake comes together with a handful of common ingredients that allow the cardamom to shine. Here’s what you’ll need:

Unsalted butter: Gives the cake its rich, moist texture and buttery flavor.

Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that perfect crumb.

Eggs: Provide structure and richness to the cake.

All-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake, keeping it sturdy yet tender.

Baking powder: Ensures the cake rises just enough.

Whole milk: Keeps the texture soft and adds subtle creaminess.

Fresh ground cardamom: The star of the show—adds warmth, spice, and complexity.

Vanilla extract: Balances the spice with smooth sweetness.

Salt: Just a pinch to enhance all the flavors.

How To Make the Authentic Swedish Cardamom Cake

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan or bundt pan. Lightly flour it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until pale and fluffy. This creates air pockets that lead to a soft, light crumb.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for a mellow sweetness.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and fresh ground cardamom. The scent alone is worth pausing for.

Step 5: Combine and Add Milk

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Mix just until everything is combined. Don’t overmix—a gentle hand keeps the crumb tender.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve dusted with powdered sugar or a drizzle of glaze if you like.

How to Serve and Store This Swedish Cardamom Cake

This cake serves 8 to 10 people and is delightful at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or spiced tea, making it a perfect choice for fika, brunch, or dessert. If you’re feeling fancy, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes it up a notch.

To store, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. It will keep well at room temperature for 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5. You can also freeze slices for up to 3 months—just thaw and enjoy!

What to Serve With Authentic Swedish Cardamom Cake?

Coffee or Espresso

The bold flavors of dark roast coffee complement the warm, spiced profile of the cake.

Chai Tea

Spiced tea like chai amplifies the aromatic cardamom in the most delightful way.

Fresh Berries

A handful of raspberries or blueberries adds a juicy burst and lightens the palate.

Lemon Curd

A tangy spoonful of lemon curd brings out the citrus notes in the cardamom.

Whipped Cream

Soft peaks of cream balance the spiced cake with airy richness.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Cold, creamy vanilla is always a welcome contrast to the warm spice.

Cinnamon Apples

Sauteed apples with cinnamon echo the cozy, sweet spice flavors.

Want More Cake Ideas with a European Twist?

If you love this Swedish Cardamom Cake, try these other sweet creations too:

• Butter Pecan Cheesecake for a creamy, nutty indulgence.
• Pumpkin Bread With Maple Cream Cheese Filling that brings fall flavor all year round.
• Mama Seward’s Iconic Strawberry Cake when you want a slice of nostalgia.
• Carrot Pound Cake with rich spice and tangy cream cheese icing.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use the pods or go pre-ground? Try a glaze or leave it simple?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

Authentic Swedish Cardamom Cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s a moment of calm in the middle of the day. With simple ingredients and timeless flavor, it deserves a place in your recipe box. Whether you’re sharing it over fika or enjoying a quiet slice solo, this cake brings comfort and a little Scandinavian magic to any day.

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