We are often asked “What is cardamom?” or “What does it taste like?”. While cinnamon is a familiar flavour to many people in the UK, cardamom is still a bit of a mystery. But once you’ve tasted it, there’s a good chance you’ll become a fan.
So, What Is Cardamom?
Cardamom is a fragrant spice made from the seeds of plants in the ginger family. Native to India and parts of Southeast Asia, it has been used in cooking and baking for thousands of years and is prized for its unique aroma and flavour.
The spice comes in small green pods containing tiny black seeds. These seeds are ground or infused into recipes to add warmth, sweetness, and complexity.
It’s a staple ingredient in many cuisines around the world, from Indian curries and chai tea to Scandinavian pastries and sweet bakes.
What Does Cardamom Taste Like?
Describing cardamom isn’t easy because there isn’t really anything quite like it.
The flavour is often described as:
- Warm and comforting
- Slightly sweet
- Floral and aromatic
- Citrusy and fresh
- With hints of mint and eucalyptus
Many people say it’s somewhere between cinnamon, ginger, and vanilla, but with a brighter, more fragrant character all of its own.
It’s a spice that feels both cosy and refreshing at the same time, which is why it’s so popular in baking.
Why Is Cardamom Used in Buns?
In Scandinavia, cardamom has been used in baking for generations and is often considered just as important as cinnamon.
When baked into a soft, buttery bun, cardamom creates a rich flavour that isn’t overly sweet. It adds depth and warmth while allowing the buttery dough to shine.
The result is a bake that’s comforting, aromatic, and a little bit different from the cinnamon rolls many people already know and love.
Are Cardamom Buns Similar to Cinnamon Buns?
Yes and no.
Both are soft, enriched pastries packed with flavour, but cardamom buns have a more complex and sophisticated taste.
Where cinnamon delivers a familiar sweet spice, cardamom offers a more aromatic flavour with subtle floral and citrus notes.
Many customers who try a cardamom bun for the first time are surprised by how balanced and addictive the flavour is.
Give One a Try
If you’ve never tried cardamom before, consider this your sign to try one.
Soft, buttery, lightly spiced, and wonderfully fragrant, they’re a favourite among both first-time tasters and devoted cardamom fans.