Cardamom Cookies

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Golden, lightly crisp on the edges, and buttery soft in the center, Cardamom Cookies bring a comforting warmth with every bite. The distinct floral spice of cardamom isn’t just a supporting player—it’s the star here. These cookies are the kind you savor slowly, the kind that transport you to cozy afternoons and moments worth pausing for.

While they may look like a classic sugar cookie at first glance, one taste reveals their unique character. The aromatic hint of cardamom adds an exotic twist to a familiar favorite, making them perfect for tea time, holiday trays, or simply as an elevated treat in your everyday cookie jar. They’re simple, elegant, and irresistibly good.

Why You’ll Love This Cardamom Cookie Recipe

These cookies are easy to make but deliver complex flavor. They combine pantry staples with a single standout spice that elevates the entire experience. You’ll love how well the crisp edges balance the soft, chewy middle, and how the subtle cardamom flavor adds depth without being overpowering. They freeze beautifully and stay tender for days.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment, Plus the Importance of Each Tool)

To make these Cardamom Cookies, you’ll need a few essential tools:

• Mixing Bowls: For combining wet and dry ingredients separately, which helps achieve the perfect dough texture.
• Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer: Creaming butter and sugar is crucial to the cookie’s texture. A mixer ensures proper aeration.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy matters, especially with spices like cardamom.
• Baking Sheet: A flat, sturdy surface ensures even baking.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: Prevents sticking and promotes even browning.
• Cookie Scoop (optional): Helps form uniform cookies for consistent baking.

Preparation Tips

Use room temperature butter for easy creaming—cold butter won’t blend properly, and melted butter will affect the dough structure. Don’t skip sifting the dry ingredients, especially if your cardamom has clumps. If you’re grinding your own cardamom pods, do so right before baking to preserve maximum flavor. Let the dough chill if you want thicker cookies, or bake right away for a flatter, crispier result. Always preheat your oven for consistent baking results.

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Ingredients for this Cardamom Cookie Recipe

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cardamom (freshly ground if possible)

Optional:

• Additional sugar for rolling the dough
• Pinch of cinnamon for a warmer spice profile

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Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together using an electric mixer or stand mixer. Beat until light, fluffy, and pale in color—about 2–3 minutes. This step incorporates air into the dough for a light texture.

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Step 2: Add Egg and Vanilla

Crack in the egg and pour in the vanilla extract. Continue to mix until fully combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. The mixture should be smooth and glossy.

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Step 3: Sift and Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cardamom. This ensures even distribution of the cardamom and prevents clumping. Give it a quick whisk to combine.

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Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed or by hand until just combined. Avoid overmixing—you want a tender cookie, not a tough one.

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Step 5: Chill the Dough (Optional but Recommended)

If time allows, cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This helps prevent spreading and enhances the flavor. Chilled dough also makes scooping and rolling easier.

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Step 6: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.

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Step 7: Scoop and Shape the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, scoop out equal portions of dough and roll them into balls. For a classic look, press the tops gently with a fork or the bottom of a glass. If desired, roll each ball in granulated sugar before baking.

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Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Place the cookie dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers look set but slightly soft. Do not overbake—they will continue to firm up as they cool.

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Step 9: Cool and Serve

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm or at room temperature with tea, coffee, or on their own.

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Notes

Cardamom is a bold and aromatic spice, so a little goes a long way. If you’re new to using cardamom, start with the recommended amount and adjust in future batches if you want a more intense flavor. Using freshly ground cardamom pods can significantly boost the flavor compared to pre-ground. These cookies also benefit from resting—letting them sit for a few hours after baking helps the flavor settle and develop beautifully.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using too much cardamom: It can overpower the cookie. Measure carefully.
• Skipping the chilling step: While optional, chilled dough spreads less and bakes more evenly.
• Overmixing the dough: This can result in tough cookies. Mix just until combined.
• Overbaking: Cardamom Cookies should be soft in the center when removed from the oven. They will continue to cook slightly on the baking sheet.
• Using cold butter: It won’t cream properly with the sugar, affecting texture.

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Storage Instructions

Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To maintain softness, place a slice of bread in the container with the cookies. For longer storage, freeze baked cookies in a zip-top freezer bag for up to 2 months. You can also freeze the cookie dough balls before baking—just add 1–2 minutes to the baking time when baking from frozen.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per cookie, based on 24 servings)

• Calories: 145
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 25mg
• Sodium: 50mg
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Sugar: 9g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 1.5g

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does cardamom taste like?

Cardamom has a unique flavor that’s slightly sweet, floral, and citrusy with a hint of spice. It adds warmth and depth to baked goods.

Can I substitute cardamom with another spice?

Yes, cinnamon or nutmeg can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will be different. Cardamom has a distinct taste that’s hard to replicate.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can refrigerate the dough for up to 48 hours before baking or freeze it for up to 2 months.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

Not as written. You can try using a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture may vary slightly.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

Look for lightly golden edges and soft centers. They should look slightly underbaked in the middle but will firm up as they cool.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, the recipe doubles well. Just make sure to mix in batches if your mixing bowl isn’t large enough.

Should I use green or black cardamom?

Use green cardamom for baking. Black cardamom has a smoky flavor better suited for savory dishes.

Do I need to flatten the cookie dough before baking?

It’s optional. Flattening helps with even spreading and gives them their signature crackled look.

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Conclusion

Cardamom Cookies are a delightful twist on a traditional cookie, offering a warm, inviting flavor that pairs beautifully with a cozy beverage or stands alone as a satisfying treat. They’re easy to make, store well, and deliver impressive flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re baking for guests or just indulging a craving, these cookies are sure to impress and become a favorite in your recipe box.

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