Are you in search of a dessert that will not only tantalize your taste buds but also offer a striking presentation? Look no further than this delightful Orange Cardamom Cake. This enchanting recipe combines the zesty flavor of fresh oranges with the warm, aromatic spice of cardamom, creating a harmonious balance that is simply irresistible. As you slice into the cake, you’ll discover not only its beautiful layers but also its superbly moist texture, making each bite an explosion of flavor that lingers on your palate.
This cake isn’t just a treat for the senses; it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a sophisticated tea party or looking for a standout dessert for a special occasion, this cake fits the bill seamlessly. With its elegant appearance and delightful flavor profile, it is bound to impress your guests and elevate any gathering. Additionally, it is straightforward to prepare, requiring no advanced baking skills — making it a perfect choice for both beginner and experienced bakers alike. It’s time to delve into this recipe that’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your culinary repertoire!
Why You’ll Love This Orange Cardamom Cake
- Flavor Balance: The combination of citrus and spice creates a taste experience that is both refreshing and comforting.
- Elegant Presentation: Layered with a smooth buttercream frosting and adorned with delicate toppings, this cake is as beautiful as it is delicious.
- Versatile Usage: Perfect for various occasions, from casual brunches to sophisticated dinners.
- Easy to Make: With step-by-step instructions, anyone can create this stunning cake.
- Great for Sharing: This recipe yields 12 slices, making it an excellent option for gatherings and celebrations.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the delightful process of creating your Orange Cardamom Cake, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by ensuring your workspace is clean and organized, as a clutter-free environment helps in maintaining focus and efficiency. Gather two 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pans, which will be vital for baking your cake layers. It’s advisable to grease and line these pans with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cakes once baked.
Next, assemble the basic baking tools: a mixing bowl for combining dry ingredients, a whisk for aerating, and an electric mixer for creaming the butter and sugar. Having measuring cups and spoons on hand will help in accurately following the recipes. For decorating, consider using a spatula for spreading the frostings and a piping bag for creating elegant decorations. A wire rack for cooling is also essential, as it will prevent the cakes from getting soggy. Are you ready to experience the bliss of baking? Let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cardamom
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- ½ cup fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
- 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup mascarpone cheese, softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Orange zest curls (for decoration)
- Crushed pistachios or edible dried flowers (for decoration)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pans
Start the process by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, take your two prepared cake pans and grease them lightly with butter or cooking spray. Then, line the bottom of each pan with parchment paper to prevent the cakes from sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cardamom until they are well combined. This step is crucial as it ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spice, which contributes to the cake’s uniform rise and flavor.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In another large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the room temperature butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes fluffy and pale in color. This process typically takes about 3-5 minutes, and it’s essential for creating a light texture in the cake.
Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs and Flavorings
Now it’s time to add the eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated. Follow this by mixing in the orange zest, fresh orange juice, and pure vanilla extract, which will infuse the cake with delightful flavors.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Start alternating between adding the dry ingredient mixture and the whole milk into the butter mixture. Begin with about a third of the dry ingredients, followed by half of the milk, and repeat until all are combined, finishing with the dry ingredients. This method helps to maintain a stable batter while preventing overmixing.
Step 6: Bake the Cake Layers
Evenly distribute the batter between the two prepared cake pans. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Once done, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Make the Cream Filling
While the cakes are cooling, take a separate mixing bowl and whip the heavy cream to soft peaks. Then add in softened mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, ground cardamom, and additional orange zest. Mix gently until well combined, then chill the mixture in the refrigerator until you are ready to layer your cake.
Step 8: Prepare the Buttercream Frosting
For the frosting, beat the softened unsalted butter in a large mixing bowl until it turns smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until all ingredients are well incorporated and the frosting is light and fluffy.
Step 9: Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes have completely cooled, carefully slice each layer in half horizontally, resulting in four equal layers. Start by placing one layer on a serving plate, spreading a generous amount of the cream filling over the top. Repeat this process with the remaining layers, stacking them carefully.
Step 10: Frost and Decorate
After all the layers are stacked, apply a thin crumb coat of frosting around the outside of the cake to catch any crumbs. Chill the cake for about 30 minutes, and then frost it completely with the buttercream. Decorate the top with orange zest curls and sprinkle with crushed pistachios or edible dried flowers for a stunning presentation.
Variations
- Protein: Add a layer of cream cheese or ricotta for added creaminess and flavor contrast.
- Vegetables: Incorporate finely grated carrots or zucchini for a moist texture and additional nutrients.
- Spices: Experiment with other spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for varied flavor profiles.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure all your ingredients, especially the butter and eggs, are at room temperature for an even batter.
- For extra zest, consider using a microplane to finely grate the orange zest.
- Chill the cake layers before assembling to maintain their structure, making it easier to frost.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve slices of the Orange Cardamom Cake with a dollop of fresh whipped cream on the side.
- Pair with a cup of spiced tea or your favorite blend for a delightful afternoon treat.
Tips
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the cake moist and fresh.
- Consider making mini versions of this cake in cupcake form for easier serving.
- Experiment with different decorative toppings to match the occasion or season.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 400 calories per slice
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
FAQs
Can I use other types of citrus in this recipe?
Absolutely! Lemon or grapefruit could work as excellent alternatives to orange, providing a different flavor profile.
How can I store leftover cake?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes! You can make the cake layers ahead of time and assemble them just before serving for maximum freshness.
Is it necessary to chill the cake layers?
Chilling the layers helps to firm them up, making slicing and frosting much easier, so we highly encourage this step.
Conclusion
This Orange Cardamom Cake is a true labor of love that’s surprisingly simple to create, yet it delivers on elegance and taste. The bright citrus notes paired with the aromatic spice of cardamom make this dessert an unforgettable experience for anyone lucky enough to taste it. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations, or try out different garnishing options to make it your own! We encourage you to bake this delightful cake and share your experiences in the comments below. Happy baking!
Print
Delicious Orange Cardamom Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Orange Cardamom Cake is a true labor of love that’s surprisingly simple to create, yet it delivers on elegance and taste.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cardamom
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- ½ cup fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
- 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup mascarpone cheese, softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Orange zest curls (for decoration)
- Crushed pistachios or edible dried flowers (for decoration)
Instructions
- Start the process by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, take your two prepared cake pans and grease them lightly with butter or cooking spray. Then, line the bottom of each pan with parchment paper to prevent the cakes from sticking.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cardamom until they are well combined. This step is crucial as it ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spice, which contributes to the cake’s uniform rise and flavor.
- In another large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the room temperature butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes fluffy and pale in color. This process typically takes about 3-5 minutes, and it’s essential for creating a light texture in the cake.
- Now it’s time to add the eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated. Follow this by mixing in the orange zest, fresh orange juice, and pure vanilla extract, which will infuse the cake with delightful flavors.
- Start alternating between adding the dry ingredient mixture and the whole milk into the butter mixture. Begin with about a third of the dry ingredients, followed by half of the milk, and repeat until all are combined, finishing with the dry ingredients. This method helps to maintain a stable batter while preventing overmixing.
- Evenly distribute the batter between the two prepared cake pans. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Once done, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cakes are cooling, take a separate mixing bowl and whip the heavy cream to soft peaks. Then add in softened mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, ground cardamom, and additional orange zest. Mix gently until well combined, then chill the mixture in the refrigerator until you are ready to layer your cake.
- For the frosting, beat the softened unsalted butter in a large mixing bowl until it turns smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until all ingredients are well incorporated and the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Once the cakes have completely cooled, carefully slice each layer in half horizontally, resulting in four equal layers. Start by placing one layer on a serving plate, spreading a generous amount of the cream filling over the top. Repeat this process with the remaining layers, stacking them carefully.
- After all the layers are stacked, apply a thin crumb coat of frosting around the outside of the cake to catch any crumbs. Chill the cake for about 30 minutes, and then frost it completely with the buttercream. Decorate the top with orange zest curls and sprinkle with crushed pistachios or edible dried flowers for a stunning presentation.
Notes
Ensure all your ingredients, especially the butter and eggs, are at room temperature for an even batter.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Protein: 4 g