Cardamom Cookies

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Golden on the edges and soft in the center, these Cardamom Cookies are a warm, spiced treat that elevates any cookie platter. The unique citrusy flavor of cardamom shines through in every bite, making them a delightful twist on classic sugar cookies. Whether you’re baking for a cozy evening in, gifting a batch, or preparing for the holidays, these cookies deliver both charm and taste.

Cardamom is often underappreciated in desserts, but this recipe puts it right where it belongs—front and center. Paired with buttery dough and a hint of vanilla, each cookie is perfectly crisp on the outside and irresistibly chewy inside. If you haven’t baked with cardamom before, this recipe is a perfect introduction to its enchanting aroma and flavor.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make Cardamom Cookies come out perfectly every time, having the right tools makes all the difference:

• Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: Creaming the butter and sugar properly is key for that soft, tender texture. A mixer ensures a fluffy and well-aerated dough.
• Mixing Bowls (Various Sizes): Needed to combine dry and wet ingredients separately for better consistency.
• Cookie Scoop: For uniform cookie size and even baking.
• Baking Sheets with Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and promotes even browning underneath.
• Wire Cooling Rack: Cools the cookies evenly and avoids soggy bottoms.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is everything with spices like cardamom—too much can overpower, too little can get lost.

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Ingredients for the Cardamom Cookies

• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and softness to the cookies.
• Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and helps create a slightly crisp edge.
• Brown Sugar – Gives depth of flavor and extra chewiness.
• Egg – Acts as a binder and adds moisture.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the warmth of the cardamom.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base structure of the cookie.
• Baking Soda – Provides a light lift for a soft, chewy texture.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Ground Cardamom – The star ingredient, offering a floral, citrusy warmth.
• White Chocolate (optional) – A creamy contrast to the spiced dough.

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How To Make the Cardamom Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for a tender cookie base.

Step 2: Add Egg and Vanilla

Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and fully combined.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cardamom. This ensures even distribution of the spice.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just incorporated. Do not overmix.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Cover and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent spreading and intensifies the flavor.

Step 6: Scoop and Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing cookies about 2 inches apart. Bake for 9–11 minutes or until the edges are golden.

Step 7: Cool and Add White Chocolate (Optional)

Let cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack. If using white chocolate, drizzle or spoon a dollop in the center while still slightly warm.

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Serving and Storing Your Cardamom Cookies

These cookies are ideal served slightly warm with a cup of chai or coffee. Their spice-forward profile also makes them a festive favorite for winter gatherings.

To store, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the cookie dough in balls for up to 2 months—bake directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How strong is the cardamom flavor?

It’s prominent but balanced. You can reduce the amount slightly if you prefer a milder taste.

Can I use pre-ground cardamom or should I grind it fresh?

Pre-ground works well, but freshly ground cardamom will have a stronger, more aromatic impact.

What does chilling the dough do?

It firms up the fat in the dough, preventing the cookies from spreading too much and resulting in a thicker, chewier texture.

Can I substitute the white chocolate?

Absolutely. You can skip it or use dark chocolate, orange zest, or chopped nuts instead.

Are these cookies good for gifting?

Yes! Their unique flavor and chewy texture make them a standout in any homemade cookie gift box.

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Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these Cardamom Cookies, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Whipped Shortbread Cookies for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Brownie Mix Cookies if you’re craving chewy, fudgy indulgence.
• Strawberry Crunch Pound Cake for a fruity cookie-cake hybrid.
• Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake when you want a tropical escape in every bite.
• Traditional German Lebkuchen if you enjoy old-world spice.

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Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try a chocolate drizzle or add your own twist?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

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