Cardamom in baking: Elevating your desserts to the next level

At once sweet, warm, citrusy, and floral, cardamom reigns as the queen of spice. Originally from India, this relative of the ginger family elevates the flavours of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Cardamom, a spice that is often used in savoury dishes, is often overlooked in the world of baking. However, this versatile spice can add a unique and delicious flavour to your desserts.

Cardamom comes from the seeds of a plant in the ginger family and has a strong, pungent aroma with hints of lemon and mint. It is often used in Middle Eastern and Indian cuisine but can also be found in Scandinavian and North African dishes.

When it comes to baking, cardamom pairs well with warm spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, it can also complement the flavours of vanilla, chocolate, and fruits such as apples and plums. A little goes a long way with cardamom, so a small amount can add a big punch of flavour to your desserts.

Cardamom used in Scandinavian and Middle Eastern desserts

One classic way to use cardamom in baking is in Scandinavian-style pastries such as kanelbullar (cinnamon buns) and kardemummabullar (cardamom buns). In these recipes, cardamom is used to flavour the dough and the filling, giving the buns a unique and delicious taste. Another traditional way to use cardamom in baking is in Middle Eastern sweets such as baklava and basbousa. In these recipes, cardamom is used to flavour the syrup poured over the pastries, adding a subtle yet delicious flavour.

How to use cardamom in baking?

Elaichi can also be used in more unconventional ways in baking. For example, you can add ground cardamom to your favourite chocolate cake recipe to give it a unique twist. You can also add it to your fruit pies and crumbles for a warm and comforting flavour. Additionally, add a pinch of cardamom to your pancake or waffle batter for a delicious and unexpected breakfast treat.

When using cardamom in baking, it’s essential to use the right type of cardamom. 

Types of cardamom

There are two types of cardamom: green and black. 

Green cardamom is the more common type and has a stronger, more pungent flavour. On the other hand, black cardamom has a smokier flavour and is typically used in savoury dishes. For baking, green cardamom is the best choice. You can find it in whole pods or ground. If you are using whole pods, make sure to grind them before using them in your recipe.

When measuring cardamom, it’s important to remember that a little goes a long way. A general rule of thumb is to use about 1/4 teaspoon of ground cardamom for every cup of flour in your recipe. However, you can always adjust the amount to your liking. It’s best to start with a small amount and add more as needed.

Cardamom is not just limited to sweet dishes, try adding it to savoury dishes such as meat dishes, stews and soups. It will give a unique and delicious flavour to your dishes.

Cardamom is a versatile spice that can add a unique and delicious flavour to your desserts. It pairs well with warm spices, vanilla, chocolate, and fruits, making it a great addition to your baking arsenal. Next time you’re looking to add a unique twist to your baking, consider using cardamom. Look at some recipes below, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the delicious results.

Cardamom Vanilla Bean Scones:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 vanilla bean, seeded

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cardamom in a large bowl. Mix well.
3. Add the butter to the flour mixture and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Combine the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and vanilla bean seeds in a small bowl. Mix well.
5. Add the wet and dry ingredients and mix until the dough comes together.
6. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently for a few seconds.
7. Pat the dough into a circle that is about 1 inch thick. Use a sharp knife to cut the dough into 8 wedges.
8. Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown.
9. Serve the scones warm with butter or jam.

Cardamom Apple Pie:

Ingredients:

• 1 recipe for pie crust (your favourite recipe or store-bought)
• 6 cups thinly sliced and peeled Granny Smith apples
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish. Crimp the edges.
3. Combine the apples, sugar, flour, cardamom, salt, and lemon juice in a large bowl. Mix well.
4. Pour the apple mixture into the pie crust. Dot the top with butter.
5. Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 50-60 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
6. Allow the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cardamom Vanilla Cupcakes:

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter at room temperature
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup whole milk

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cardamom in a medium bowl. Mix well.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Add the dry
   

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