We’ve always been captivated by Krydderkake, the beloved Norwegian spice cake that brings a taste of Scandinavia right to our kitchen. With its warm blend of spices and moist texture, it’s a comforting treat perfect for cozy gatherings or a simple afternoon delight.
Originating from Norway’s rich baking traditions, this cake showcases flavors that evoke holiday cheer year-round. We’re excited to share our take on this timeless recipe, making it easy for you to whip up a slice of Nordic goodness at home.
Ingredients
To bring our simplified Krydderkake recipe to life, we gather these essential ingredients, drawing from Norway’s rich baking traditions. We’ve organized them in the order they are typically used, with prep specifics noted for accuracy and ease.
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups, sifted to ensure a light and airy texture that forms the base of our moist spice cake.
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup, measured precisely to balance the warm spices and create a subtle sweetness evocative of Norwegian holiday cheer.
- Large eggs: 2, at room temperature for better incorporation, adding richness and helping bind the batter.
- Unsalted butter: ½ cup (1 stick), melted to infuse moisture and a creamy depth that makes this cake irresistibly tender.
- Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon, a key spice that delivers the signature warm, aromatic notes central to Krydderkake’s appeal.
- Ground cardamom: 1 teaspoon, freshly ground if possible, for its distinctive Nordic flavor that evokes festive gatherings.
- Ground ginger: ½ teaspoon, to add a gentle zing that enhances the cake’s comforting spice profile.
- Ground cloves: ¼ teaspoon, used sparingly to prevent overpowering the blend and maintain a harmonious taste.
- Baking powder: 1 teaspoon, to provide the lift that results in a fluffy crumb.
- Baking soda: ½ teaspoon, for additional rise and to react with acidic elements for optimal texture.
- Whole milk: 1 cup, at room temperature to keep the batter smooth and ensure the cake remains moist without density.
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon, pure variety recommended, to round out the flavors with a subtle, inviting aroma.
For substitutions or variations, we suggest consulting a reliable source, but these measurements yield a classic version perfect for your home baking adventures.
Required Tools and Equipment
Having gathered our essential ingredients for Krydderkake, we now turn to the tools and equipment that ensure a smooth baking process. These items help us achieve the cake’s signature moist texture and warm spice infusion with precision and ease.
To prepare and bake our Krydderkake effectively, we’ll need the following tools organized by their role in the recipe:
- Mixing Bowls: Two or three medium-sized stainless steel or glass bowls for combining dry and wet ingredients. We recommend medium-sized bowls as they provide ample space to avoid spills while mixing.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: A set of standard dry and liquid measuring cups (1 cup, ½ cup, ⅓ cup, ¼ cup) and spoons (1 tablespoon, 1 teaspoon, ½ teaspoon). Accurate measurements are crucial for balancing the spices and achieving the perfect moist and fluffy texture in our Krydderkake.
- Electric Mixer or Hand Whisk: An electric stand mixer or hand-held electric mixer for creaming butter and sugar, or a sturdy wire whisk if mixing by hand. This tool ensures even incorporation of ingredients, preventing lumps that could affect the cake’s rise.
- Baking Pan: A 9-inch round or loaf pan, preferably non-stick or greased for easy release. We suggest opting for a high-quality pan to promote even baking and maintain the traditional Norwegian shape of Krydderkake.
- Spatula: A silicone or rubber spatula for folding ingredients and scraping bowl sides. It’s essential for gentle mixing to preserve the air in the batter, leading to a lighter cake.
- Oven: A standard conventional or convection oven preheated to the required temperature. Ensure it’s calibrated for accuracy, as precise heat is key to developing the warm spice flavors in our Krydderkake.
- Cooling Rack: A wire rack to cool the baked cake evenly. This prevents sogginess and allows the spices to settle, enhancing the overall taste.
- Sieve: A fine-mesh sieve for sifting flour and spices. We use this to remove clumps and aerate ingredients, ensuring a uniform batter that results in the cake’s characteristic tender crumb.
By having these tools ready, we set ourselves up for a seamless baking experience that brings out the best in our homemade Krydderkake.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our ingredients and tools, we guide you through creating a moist, aromatic Krydderkake that captures the essence of Norwegian baking traditions. Let’s achieve that perfect balance of warm spices and fluffy texture step by step.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before mixing, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal blending and to enhance the cake’s moisture. Start by sifting 2 cups of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and a spice blend of 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon cardamom, 1/2 teaspoon ginger, and 1/4 teaspoon cloves into a medium mixing bowl to aerate them and remove lumps— this step prevents a dense cake and distributes flavors evenly.
Next, in another bowl, cream 1 cup of unsalted butter (softened) with 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy—aim for about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer for a smooth base that locks in the spices’ warmth. Crack 2 large eggs into a small bowl and whisk lightly, then measure out 1 cup of buttermilk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to have ready. These preparations set the stage for a batter that evokes the comforting aroma of holiday spices.
Mix the Batter
Combine the dry ingredients with the wet ones gradually to avoid overmixing and maintain the cake’s tender crumb. Add the creamed butter-sugar mixture to the sifted dry ingredients in the bowl, then pour in the whisked eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract.
Using your electric mixer on low speed, blend everything together for 1-2 minutes until just combined—overmixing can toughen the batter so stop as soon as the ingredients form a smooth, thick consistency with visible spice flecks. If needed, use a spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl for even incorporation. At this point, the batter should have a rich, fragrant scent that hints at the spicy, moist profile of our finished Krydderkake.
Bake the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy release. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure even baking.
Bake in the center of the oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean— the cake will rise beautifully and fill your kitchen with an irresistible spicy aroma. Rotate the pan halfway through baking for uniform heat exposure, resulting in a golden-brown crust that contrasts perfectly with the soft, flavorful interior.
Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes to set its structure without collapsing. Then, transfer it directly to the rack to cool completely for another 30-45 minutes— this prevents sogginess and allows the spices to meld for deeper flavor.
Slice and serve our Krydderkake at room temperature, perhaps dusted with powdered sugar or paired with a dollop of whipped cream to highlight its moist texture and warm spice notes, making it an ideal treat for any gathering.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the joys of baking Krydderkake is its versatility for advance preparation, allowing us to enjoy its warm, spicy flavors at any time. Whether we’re hosting a gathering or simply planning ahead, these steps ensure our cake retains its moist texture and aromatic appeal.
Preparing the Batter in Advance
We can mix the batter up to 24 hours before baking to save time on busy days. First, follow the step-by-step instructions up to the point of combining the wet and dry ingredients into a smooth batter. Once mixed, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container, then refrigerate it immediately. This helps preserve the freshness of the spices like cinnamon and cardamom, preventing any loss of their vibrant aroma. Before baking, let the batter sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to ensure even rising and a fluffy result.
Baking and Storing the Cake
For fully baked Krydderkake, we recommend baking the cake as directed, then allowing it to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to lock in moisture and protect against staleness. Store it at room temperature for up to 3 days, in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or freeze it for longer storage. This method keeps the cake’s tender crumb and spice notes intact, making it easy to serve slices whenever we crave that comforting Norwegian treat.
Freezing for Extended Storage
Freezing is an excellent option for making Krydderkake well in advance, such as for holiday seasons. After baking and cooling, slice the cake into portions for quick thawing. Place the slices on a baking sheet to flash-freeze for 1-2 hours, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Below is a quick reference table for freezing guidelines:
| Storage Method | Duration | Thawing Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Whole cake | Up to 3 months | Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bring to room temperature for 1-2 hours before serving. |
| Individual slices | Up to 2 months | Thaw at room temperature for 30-45 minutes or in the microwave on low power for 20-30 seconds. |
When ready to enjoy, we can refresh the cake by warming it slightly in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes, which revives its moist texture and enhances the blend of ginger and cloves for a sensory delight.
Conclusion
We’ve loved diving into this Norwegian favorite and hope our Krydderkake recipe sparks your baking adventures.
It’s a simple way to bring warmth and tradition into your home, creating moments that linger long after the last slice.
Let’s keep exploring global flavors together and make every bake a cherished ritual.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Krydderkake?
Krydderkake is a traditional Norwegian spice cake known for its warm spices, moist texture, and comforting flavor. Originating from Norway’s baking heritage, it’s perfect for holidays or everyday treats, evoking a sense of festive cheer. This simplified recipe makes it easy to bake at home, blending spices like cinnamon and cardamom for a delightful Nordic experience.
What ingredients are needed for Krydderkake?
The key ingredients include all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, large eggs, unsalted butter, and spices like cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves. Use precise measurements and room-temperature items for the best moist, fluffy results. You can consult reliable sources for substitutions to suit dietary needs, ensuring a flavorful cake every time.
What tools and equipment are required for baking Krydderkake?
You’ll need 2-3 mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, an electric mixer or whisk, a baking pan, spatula, sieve for flour, and a cooling rack. Preheat your oven for even baking. These tools help achieve a smooth process and the cake’s signature texture, making home baking straightforward and enjoyable.
How do I make Krydderkake step by step?
Start by preparing room-temperature ingredients and sifting dry ones. Cream butter and sugar, then mix in eggs, spices, and flour to form a smooth batter. Grease your pan, pour in the batter, and bake in a preheated oven until golden brown. Cool on a rack before serving, optionally with powdered sugar or whipped cream for enhanced flavor.
Can I make Krydderkake ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance to keep spices fresh. Bake and store the cake at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for longer. For freezing, wrap whole cakes or slices tightly and thaw at room temperature. Reheat in the oven to refresh flavors, making it ideal for planning ahead.
How should I store Krydderkake to keep it fresh?
Store cooled Krydderkake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain moisture and flavor. For longer storage, freeze it for up to three months; wrap tightly in plastic or foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature, and warm briefly in the oven to restore its warm spice notes.