Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I sift through my pantry, I stumble upon a fragrant jar of cardamom, its warm spice instantly transporting me. Inspired, I decide to whip up an Orange Cardamom Cake with Dreamy Rose Buttercream that feels both cozy and elegant. With its tender crumb and zesty orange flavor, this cake is a delightful twist on your traditional dessert, enhanced by the luxurious floral notes of rosewater buttercream. Not only is it a joyful crowd-pleaser perfect for celebrations, but it’s also a wonderful way to treat yourself any day of the week. The combination of bright citrus and aromatic spices creates an indulgence that’s irresistibly inviting. Have you ever savored a slice of cake that felt like a warm embrace? Let’s dive in and make this dreamy dessert a reality together! Why is this cake so special? Luxurious Flavor: The blend of fresh orange and warm cardamom creates an unforgettable flavor profile that sings with every bite. Elegant Touch: Topped with dreamy rose buttercream, this cake not only looks stunning but also presents a sophisticated taste that’s sure to impress. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s for a birthday party or a cozy afternoon tea, this cake fits seamlessly into both casual and festive gatherings. Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this recipe guarantees success even for beginner bakers. A Treat for the Senses: The aroma of spices and citrus fills your kitchen, elevating your baking experience to something truly delightful. Pair with a refreshing cup of herbal tea, or if you’re in the mood for something more decadent, consider serving it alongside a slice of Caramelized Banana Cheesecake for a dessert table that speaks volumes! Orange Cardamom Cake Ingredients • Indulge in the freshness and warmth of flavors with this delicious recipe! For the Cake Unsalted Butter – Provides a rich flavor and moisture; ensure it’s softened for easy creaming. Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps achieve a light cake texture. Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and a subtle caramel richness for depth. Large Eggs – Essential for structure and leavening; helps bind the ingredients together. All-Purpose Flour – The main structure builder; using a scale ensures accuracy. Ground Cardamom – Infuses warmth and spice; adjust to your taste preference. Baking Powder – A leavening agent to help the cake rise beautifully. Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor balance; don’t skip this step for the best taste. Milk – Adds moisture; replace with yogurt for a lighter option. Fresh Orange Juice – Offers vibrant citrus flavor; freshly squeezed is best. Zest of 1 Large Orange – Intensifies the orange flavor; use a microplane for fine zesting. Vanilla Extract – Rounds out the flavor profile; a quality extract makes a difference. For the Rose Buttercream Confectioners Sugar – Provides smooth sweetness in the buttercream. Unsalted Butter – Use softened butter for a creamy texture. Rosewater – Add sparingly to avoid overpowering the cake’s flavor; a little goes a long way. Milk – Incorporates moisture into the frosting; adjust to achieve desired consistency. Pink Food Coloring (optional) – Use to give your frosting a lovely hue for decoration. For Garnish Rose Buds – Add visual appeal; substitute with fresh edible flowers if desired. This delightful Orange Cardamom Cake with Rose Buttercream is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a treat for the senses! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Orange Cardamom Cake with Rose Buttercream Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pans Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and get ready to create a lovely Orange Cardamom Cake. Grease three 9-inch round cake pans using baking spray or line them with parchment paper for easy removal. Set them aside while you prepare the batter—this cake will be wonderfully fluffy and aromatic! Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, add softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, with a pale color. This step is crucial as it incorporates air, giving your cake a lovely rise and texture. Step 3: Incorporate Eggs Add large eggs to the creamed mixture one at a time, mixing on low speed until each is fully incorporated before adding the next. This ensures that each egg is blended smoothly into the batter. The mixture should become creamy and slightly thicker, forming a cohesive base for your flavorful cake. Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, ground cardamom, baking powder, and kosher salt. This step combines the leavening agents and spices, allowing them to distribute evenly throughout the batter. The warm fragrance of cardamom at this stage will excite your senses for the baking adventure ahead. Step 5: Blend Wet Ingredients In a measuring cup, combine milk, freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract, stirring to mix thoroughly. This mixture will add moisture and zesty flavor to your Orange Cardamom Cake. Make sure to use freshly squeezed juice for the best taste—it’s worth it for that vibrant citrus boost! Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients With the mixer on low speed, alternate adding the dry flour mixture and the wet orange juice mixture into the creamed butter and sugar, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, ensuring not to overmix. Your batter should be smooth and slightly thick, showcasing all the wholesome ingredients coming together. Step 7: Bake the Cake Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans using a spatula for an even distribution. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should have a golden top and spring back when gently pressed—signals that it’s perfectly baked. Step 8: Make the Rose Buttercream While the cakes cool, prepare the buttercream. In a clean mixing bowl, beat softened unsalted butter with confectioners’ sugar on low speed until combined. Gradually increase to medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy. Mix in the rosewater and a splash of milk, adjusting the consistency to your preference—smooth and spreadable! Step 9: Frost and Assemble the Cake Once the cake layers have completely cooled, level them if necessary for a uniform stack. Place one layer on a cake stand and spread a generous amount of the rose buttercream on top. Repeat with the second layer, topping it with another portion of buttercream before adding the final layer. Use the remaining buttercream to frost the outside of the cake for a beautiful finish. Step 10: Garnish and Serve To bring a stunning visual appeal, decorate the top of your Orange Cardamom Cake with dried or fresh rose buds. This adds an elegant touch and highlights the delightful flavors of the cake. Slice and serve your creation at room temperature, inviting everyone to enjoy this luxurious treat of Orange Cardamom Cake with Rose Buttercream. How to Store and Freeze Orange Cardamom Cake Room Temperature: The Orange Cardamom Cake is best enjoyed fresh on the same day it’s made. However, you can keep it at room temperature for up to 1 day, covered with a cake dome or wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain moisture. Fridge: If you have leftover slices, store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. This keeps the cake fresh, while the flavors develop further. Freezer: To freeze the cake, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw layers in the fridge overnight before frosting. Reheating: If you prefer a warm slice, lightly reheat it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, but be cautious not to overheat, as this can dry out the cake. Enjoy each delightful bite of your Orange Cardamom Cake with Rose Buttercream! Orange Cardamom Cake Variations Feel free to get creative with this delightful cake and make it your own! Spice Swap: Replace ground cardamom with ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a different warm spice profile. Each variation will impart a lovely new twist to the flavor! Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free milk alternatives, like almond or coconut milk, alongside vegan butter for a plant-based version that doesn’t skimp on taste. Citrus Twist: Experiment with different citrus juices like lemon or grapefruit in place of orange juice, which adds a refreshing zing perfect for brightening the flavor. Nutty Addition: Fold in 1/2 cup of finely chopped nuts, like pistachios or walnuts, into the batter for a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the soft cake. Chocolate Delight: Incorporate cocoa powder (1/3 cup) for a chocolate-orange blend. This rich flavor makes every slice feel decadent and luxurious! Floral Flair: If rosewater isn’t your favorite, substitute it with lavender extract for a unique aromatic accent in the buttercream that beautifully complements the cake. Garnish Refresh: Instead of rose buds, top your cake with edible flowers like violets or pansies for a stunning visual appeal and a hint of sweet floral flavor. Feeling inspired? After mastering this cake, why not also try your hand at making a stunning Moist Strawberry Shortcake or a luscious Caramelized Banana Cheesecake for your next baking adventure! What to Serve with Orange Cardamom Cake with Rose Buttercream Indulge in a delightful dining experience, perfectly complementing each bite of your aromatic cake. Herbal Tea: The lightness of herbal tea balances the sweetness of the cake, providing a calming and fragrant companion. Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberry or strawberry garnishes add a vibrant burst of flavor and freshness that enhances each slice. Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the cake’s texture, creating a rich, melty experience with every mouthful. Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing glass of sparkling lemonade invites brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the rose buttercream. Mint Yogurt Sauce: Drizzle a cool mint yogurt sauce over your cake for a refreshing twist that enhances its floral notes. Pistachio Crumble: A crunchy pistachio crumble sprinkled on top adds a nutty element, elevating the cake’s texture and adding a delightful crunch. Dark Chocolate Ganache: For an indulgent touch, drizzle a rich ganache over the cake—it beautifully contrasts with the lightness of the orange and cardamom. Make Ahead Options These Orange Cardamom Cake with Rose Buttercream layers are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can bake the cake layers up to 3 days in advance, allowing them to cool completely before wrapping each layer tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating. The rose buttercream can also be prepared up to 24 hours ahead; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When it’s time to serve, let the refrigerated cake layers come to room temperature (about 30 minutes), assemble the layers with the buttercream, and top with rose buds for an elegant finish. This make-ahead prep ensures your cake remains just as delicious, allowing you to enjoy the celebration stress-free! Expert Tips for Orange Cardamom Cake Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature as this helps them incorporate better, leading to a lighter and fluffier Orange Cardamom Cake. Fresh Citrus Bliss: Always use freshly squeezed orange juice and zest for a vibrant flavor; bottled versions can dull the cake’s fresh taste. Be Cautious with Rosewater: A little rosewater goes a long way; start with a small amount and adjust to your taste, as too much can overpower the cake. Measure Accurately: For consistent results, use a kitchen scale to weigh your flour; this prevents a dry cake that can result from too much flour. Cool Before Frosting: Make sure your cake layers are completely cooled before frosting; this avoids the buttercream melting and sliding off, ensuring a beautifully finished Orange Cardamom Cake. Orange Cardamom Cake with Rose Buttercream Recipe FAQs How do I select fresh oranges for this cake? When choosing oranges, look for ones that are firm and heavy for their size, indicating juiciness. Avoid oranges with dark spots or blemishes, as these can be signs of spoilage. For the best flavor, opt for organic oranges if possible, as they tend to have a more vibrant and aromatic zest. What is the best way to store leftover cake? After enjoying your Orange Cardamom Cake, store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day for optimal freshness. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate the cake for up to 3 days. Make sure to wrap it well to prevent it from drying out or absorbing any odors from the fridge. Can I freeze Orange Cardamom Cake? Absolutely! To freeze your cake, wrap each cooled layer in plastic wrap, ensuring it’s tightly sealed to avoid freezer burn. Then, wrap it again in aluminum foil for extra protection. The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before frosting. What should I do if my cake doesn’t rise? If your cake doesn’t rise, it could be due to a few reasons. Make sure your baking powder is fresh; it’s best if you’ve checked its expiration date. Additionally, over-mixing the batter after adding the flour can lead to a dense texture. To troubleshoot, try mixing on low speed and just until combined to maintain air in the batter. Is this cake suitable for someone with nut allergies? Yes, this Orange Cardamom Cake with Rose Buttercream is nut-free! However, be mindful of potential cross-contamination. If you’re baking for someone with allergies, ensure all your ingredients are certified nut-free and check labels carefully. Always prioritize their safety with strict food practices to create a worry-free dessert experience! Orange Cardamom Cake with Rose Buttercream This Orange Cardamom Cake with Rose Buttercream is a luxurious treat that combines bright citrus and aromatic spices, perfect for any occasion. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsCooling Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 3 hours hrs 10 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 380 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cake1 cup Unsalted Butter softened1 cup Granulated Sugar1/2 cup Brown Sugar4 Large Eggs2 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour1 teaspoon Ground Cardamom adjust to taste2 teaspoons Baking Powder1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt1 cup Milk or yogurt1 cup Fresh Orange Juice freshly squeezed1 tablespoon Zest of 1 Large Orange2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract quality extract preferredFor the Rose Buttercream4 cups Confectioners Sugar1 cup Unsalted Butter softened2 teaspoons Rosewater add sparingly2 tablespoons Milk adjust for consistencyPink Food Coloring optionalFor GarnishRose Buds or fresh edible flowers Equipment Stand Mixermeasuring cups9-inch cake pansParchment paperspatula Method StepsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare three 9-inch round cake pans with baking spray or parchment paper.In a stand mixer, cream together softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium speed for about 2 minutes.Add in the large eggs one at a time, mixing on low until fully incorporated.In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, ground cardamom, baking powder, and kosher salt.Combine milk, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract in a measuring cup.With the mixer on low, alternate adding the dry ingredients and wet ingredients to the creamed mixture.Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans and bake for about 40 minutes.To make the rose buttercream, beat together softened butter and confectioners' sugar until light and fluffy.Mix in rosewater and a splash of milk, adjusting to desired consistency.Once cooled, level the cake layers if necessary and assemble by spreading buttercream in between each layer and frosting the outside.Garnish with rose buds and serve at room temperature. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 52gProtein: 4gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 180mgFiber: 1gSugar: 28gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg NotesFor best results, use room temperature eggs and freshly squeezed orange juice. Be cautious with rosewater to avoid overpowering the flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
