SIMPLE CARDAMOM POUND CAKE — FLUFFY, MOIST, AND AROMATIC
This delicate pound cake infused with fresh green cardamom offers a wonderfully refreshing aroma and soft, tender crumb that holds beautifully when sliced. Enhanced with roasted walnuts for texture and flavor, it’s an ideal treat for teatime or dessert.
🕒 Prep Time: 15 min
⏲️ Baking Time: 1 hour
🍽️ Yields: 8-10 servings
Ingredients
- 300 g all-purpose flour
- 250 g sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground green cardamom (preferably freshly ground)
- Pinch of salt
- 3 large eggs
- 200 g sour cream
- 100 g heavy cream (unwhipped)
- 50–100 g walnuts
- Small piece of butter (for greasing)
- 3-4 biscuits (crushed finely for coating)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pan and Walnuts
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grease a loaf pan (12 cm x 30 cm) with butter.
- Grind biscuits finely (using a coffee grinder or food processor) and coat the inside of the pan evenly with the crumbs.
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Transfer them onto a towel, let cool slightly, then rub between your palms to remove loose skins. Chop the walnuts into small pieces.
2. Make the Batter
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, ground cardamom, and salt.
- Add eggs, sour cream, and heavy cream. Mix using a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and homogeneous.
- Fold in the chopped walnuts gently with a spoon to maintain airiness.
3. Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely before removing from the pan.
4. Store
- Store the cake in an airtight bag or container to maintain freshness.
💡 Tips
- Freshly ground green cardamom pods give the best flavor — grind just before use if possible.
- Toasting walnuts enhances their flavor and texture.
- Be gentle folding in nuts to keep the batter light and airy.
🎉 Perfect For
- Afternoon tea or coffee breaks
- Light desserts with subtle spice
- Homemade gift treats
📝 Final Thoughts
This simple cardamom pound cake marries soft crumb with a fragrant spice note and crunchy walnuts, making it a standout classic with minimal fuss. Its moist texture and delicate flavor profile ensure it slices cleanly and pleases every palate.