Handed an early lead by Oliver Burke, the Reds were soon pegged back by Aron Gunnarsson's goal for the hosts.
Thereafter the game was dominated by Cardiff as Russell Slade's side created a host of chances to take all three points.
But Dougie Freedman's men have been solid and resolute in their defending all season and once again held their shape to withstand the onslaught and secure a third successive 1-1 draw away from home.
It leaves them in 14th place in the Championship with 30 points from 24 games, a position that looked unlikely a month ago, albeit one that still leaves room for improvement.
2016 begins with a trip to Charlton Athletic on Saturday afternoon, the Addicks currently one place off the foot of the table.
Reaction: Slade felt that Forest 'parked the bus' in the second 45 minutes and quipped that if the visitors had 'been any deeper, they would have needed snorkels.'
But, pointing out that he continues to work under a transfer embargo, Freedman also thought the Reds could have won the game in the final 15 minutes.