Cardamom Apple Cake

Name: Cardamom Apple Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp ground cardamom; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 2 cups peeled and diced apples; 1/2 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans; 1 tsp ground cardamom

Highlighted under: Sweet Dessert Recipes

Delight in the warm and spicy flavors of Cardamom Apple Cake, a perfect dessert for any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-02T17:30:02.803Z

This Cardamom Apple Cake is a delightful blend of spices and fresh apples, perfect for cozy gatherings.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Warm, aromatic cardamom enhances the sweetness of the apples.
Moist texture that stays fresh for days.
A wonderful treat for both tea time and dessert.

      

The Magic of Cardamom

Cardamom is a spice that often takes a backseat in baking, but in this Cardamom Apple Cake, it truly shines. Known for its warm and sweet aroma, cardamom elevates the natural sweetness of the apples, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Its unique profile adds an exotic touch that makes this cake stand out at any gathering.

Incorporating cardamom into your baking can transform ordinary recipes into something extraordinary. It pairs beautifully with apples, enhancing their flavor while adding depth to the overall taste experience. Not only does it provide a delightful fragrance, but cardamom also offers potential health benefits, including digestive support and anti-inflammatory properties.

Choosing the Right Apples

When it comes to baking, not all apples are created equal. For this Cardamom Apple Cake, opt for varieties that hold their shape and offer a balance of sweetness and tartness. Granny Smith apples are a popular choice for their tartness, while Honeycrisp apples provide a delightful sweetness that complements the spices perfectly.

Consider using a blend of different apple varieties to create a more complex flavor profile. Mixing tart and sweet apples will enhance the cake's overall taste and texture, making each bite a delightful surprise. Remember to peel and dice your apples evenly to ensure they cook uniformly within the cake.

Serving Suggestions

This Cardamom Apple Cake is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. Alternatively, enjoy it as a cozy treat with a cup of tea or coffee, making it perfect for afternoon gatherings or casual get-togethers.

For an added touch, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled cake. This not only enhances its visual appeal but also adds an extra layer of sweetness that complements the spices and apples beautifully. No matter how you choose to serve it, this cake is sure to impress!

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp ground cardamom
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup buttermilk
2 cups peeled and diced apples
1/2 tsp cinnamon

For the Topping

1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
1 tsp ground cardamom

Mix all the ingredients thoroughly before baking.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cardamom, and salt.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk.

Fold in Apples

Gently fold in the diced apples and cinnamon.

Prepare Topping

In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, nuts, and cardamom for the topping.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle the topping evenly over the cake. Bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serve the cake warm or at room temperature, optionally with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Storage Tips

To keep your Cardamom Apple Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you wish to extend its shelf life, consider refrigerating it, where it can last for up to a week. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

If you're planning to make this cake ahead of time, it also freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before serving.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can add raisins or dried cranberries for an extra burst of flavor and texture. Chopped pecans or walnuts not only enhance the crunchy topping but can also be mixed into the batter for added nuttiness. Don't hesitate to experiment with spices, such as nutmeg or ginger, for a unique twist.

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, you can experiment with using different types of sweeteners, such as maple syrup or honey, to suit your dietary preferences while maintaining the delightful flavor of the cake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Yes, pears or peaches can also be substituted for apples.

→ Is there a gluten-free option for this cake?

You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months.