Ground cardamom gives a soothing aroma and unique flavor to crumb cake. It's flavor is more subtle than cinnamon and should be tried if you haven't tasted it before.
Non-stick cooking spray
3 c. all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
2 c. sugar
1 T. baking powder
1/2 t. coarse salt
1 1/2 stick unsalted butter
2/3 c. milk
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1/3 c. sour cream
1 t. pure vanilla extract
3/4 t. ground cardamom (ground ginger or cinnamon can be substituted)
1 t. finely grated lemon zest
2 c. fresh berries, for serving
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9 x 9 inch baking pan with cooking spray.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. With a fork, cut in butter until crumbs form. Reserve 1 c. crumb mixture.
Whisk milk, eggs, sour cream, vanilla, cardamom, and lemon zest into remaining crumb mixture until combined.
Pour batter into prepared pan; sprinkle reserved crumb mixture on top.
Bake until top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in center of cake comes out clean, about 45 minutes. Cool in pan on a wire rack, 30 minutes.
Serve cake warm or at room temperature with your favorite fresh berries, if desired.