Authentic Swedish Cardamom Cake

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Golden, aromatic, and warmly spiced, this Authentic Swedish Cardamom Cake is everything you want in a cozy dessert. It fills your kitchen with a rich, spiced aroma that hints at the simple elegance of Scandinavian baking. With its tender crumb and distinct cardamom flavor, it feels just right with a cup of coffee on a lazy Sunday or as a sweet midweek pick-me-up.

This cake isn’t overly sweet, which allows the cardamom to really shine. It’s baked in a bundt pan to give it that beautiful traditional look, dusted lightly with powdered sugar, and it slices like a dream. Whether you’re serving it at a fika gathering or just want to bake something a little different, this is the one that will impress without trying too hard.

Why You’ll Love This Authentic Swedish Cardamom Cake

Cardamom adds such a unique twist to this cake that you don’t often find in American-style desserts. It’s earthy, slightly citrusy, and instantly comforting. Plus, the recipe comes together with pantry staples and a few fragrant additions, so you can whip it up on a whim. The cake is moist yet light, and it stays delicious for days, making it great for both entertaining and snacking.

What Kind of Cardamom Should I Use?

For the best flavor, use freshly ground cardamom from whole pods. It’s worth the extra effort and gives a more vibrant taste than pre-ground versions. If you’re using store-bought ground cardamom, make sure it’s fresh and aromatic. Green cardamom is the variety traditionally used in Swedish baking.

Ingredients for the Authentic Swedish Cardamom Cake

This cake is built on simple ingredients with the standout being cardamom, of course. The combination of butter, sour cream, and eggs gives it a rich, moist base while the sugar balances the spice.

• All-purpose flour: This forms the structure of the cake, providing a soft but sturdy base.
• Ground cardamom: The hero of the recipe, bringing warmth and a slightly floral, peppery flavor.
• Baking powder: Ensures the cake rises perfectly and stays light.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and depth of the cake.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake without overpowering the spice.
• Eggs: Help bind the ingredients and give the cake its tender texture.
• Sour cream: Keeps the crumb moist and slightly tangy, balancing the richness.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a smooth flavor that supports the cardamom.

How To Make the Authentic Swedish Cardamom Cake

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously butter and flour a bundt pan, making sure to get into all the grooves.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground cardamom, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes with an electric mixer.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the sour cream. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined; don’t overmix.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar and slice to serve.

How to Store and Serve This Swedish Cardamom Cake

This lovely cake feeds about 10 to 12 people depending on the slice size, making it great for small gatherings or family desserts. Once baked and cooled, store it covered at room temperature for up to 4 days. It also freezes well—wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.

To serve, you don’t need much. A simple dusting of powdered sugar is traditional. It also pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re feeling indulgent.

What to Serve With Authentic Swedish Cardamom Cake?

Coffee or Espresso

Cardamom and coffee are a natural pairing, especially if you like your coffee strong and black.

Lingonberry Jam

Spread a bit of this tart Scandinavian jam on your slice for a sweet and tangy balance.

Whipped Cream

Soft, lightly sweetened whipped cream gives the cake a cloud-like contrast in texture.

Hot Tea

Chai or a good black tea with a splash of milk works beautifully.

Fresh Berries

A bowl of raspberries or blueberries adds a juicy pop alongside each bite.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Warm cake and cold vanilla ice cream? Yes, please.

Toasted Almonds

Sprinkle on top of a slice with whipped cream for extra texture and a nutty boost.

Want More Cake Ideas with a Twist?

If you loved the aromatic charm of this Authentic Swedish Cardamom Cake, you might enjoy these flavorful bakes next:

• Delicious Lemon Cake to Die For for a bright, zesty option.
• Ooey Gooey Bars if you’re craving something rich and fudgy.
• Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes that bring spice and creaminess in one bite.
• Best Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries for a no-bake summer-friendly dessert.
• Old-Time Oven Peach Cobbler when you want fruit-forward nostalgia.

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 freshly ground cardamom or go for the pre-ground kind? Did you serve it with whipped cream or berries?

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

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