Saffron Cake with Cardamom (Printable Version)

A golden cake highlighting saffron’s delicate sweetness and cardamom’s warm, citrusy notes for unforgettable flavor.

# Ingredients:

→ Dry Ingredients

01 - 250 grams wheat flour
02 - 1 teaspoon baking powder
03 - 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
04 - 0.5 teaspoon saffron threads
05 - 200 grams granulated sugar

→ Wet Ingredients

06 - 150 grams unsalted butter, softened
07 - 4 large eggs, room temperature
08 - 200 milliliters whole milk, warmed

→ Topping

09 - 100 milliliters whipping cream

# Steps:

01 - Bring all ingredients to room temperature to ensure smooth mixing and even texture.
02 - Soak the saffron threads in 30 milliliters of warm milk to release color and aroma.
03 - Using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar until light, fluffy, and pale, approximately 3-4 minutes.
04 - Add eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition to maintain smooth texture.
05 - In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and ground cardamom.
06 - Alternate adding the flour mixture and the remaining warm milk (including the saffron-infused milk) to the butter mixture in three additions, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until just combined to avoid toughness.
07 - Pour batter into a greased and floured baking pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 30-35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
08 - Whip the cream until stiff peaks form, being careful not to overwhip to prevent grainy texture.
09 - After the cake cools completely, spread the whipped cream evenly on top. Slice into 12 portions and serve at room temperature.

# Notes:

01 - Use high-quality saffron for best flavor and color. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to prevent curdling and achieve a tender crumb.
02 - Cake flavor improves after resting overnight; store unfrosted cake wrapped in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving.