Cardamom Apple Cake

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

Highlighted under: Cozy Dessert Classics

Delight in the warm, spiced flavor of Cardamom Apple Cake, a perfect autumn treat that combines the sweetness of apples with the aromatic essence of cardamom.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-12-02T19:14:02.377Z

This Cardamom Apple Cake is a family favorite that brings together the comforting flavors of fall. The fragrant cardamom enhances the natural sweetness of the apples, creating a cake that's both moist and flavorful. Perfect for gatherings or as a cozy dessert at home, this cake is sure to warm your heart.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The exotic aroma of cardamom elevates the classic apple flavor
Moist and tender texture with the perfect crumb
Easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends and family

      

The Unique Flavor Profile of Cardamom

Cardamom, often referred to as the 'queen of spices,' brings a unique and complex flavor to dishes. Its warm, citrusy notes complement the sweetness of apples beautifully, making it the star ingredient in this cake. The aromatic essence of cardamom not only enhances the taste but also fills your kitchen with an inviting fragrance as it bakes. This spice is a delightful addition to both sweet and savory recipes, and in this cake, it creates a harmonious blend that is perfect for autumn gatherings.

When paired with apples, cardamom transforms a simple dessert into something extraordinary. The subtle spice contrasts with the tartness of the apples, creating a balanced flavor that appeals to many palates. Whether you're a cardamom enthusiast or trying it for the first time, this cake offers a delicious way to experience the spice's rich characteristics.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Cardamom Apple Cake is versatile enough for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive celebrations. Its moist texture and subtle sweetness make it an ideal dessert to serve with coffee or tea. Imagine enjoying a slice while catching up with friends or family on a chilly afternoon. This cake not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also serves as a cozy comfort food, perfect for fall.

Additionally, this cake is easy to make, making it a great choice for novice bakers and experienced cooks alike. The straightforward steps allow you to whip it up quickly, and its appealing presentation will impress your guests. Whether you're celebrating a holiday, a birthday, or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake is sure to be a hit.

Storing and Serving Tips

To keep your Cardamom Apple Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, it can be frozen for up to three months. Just slice the cake and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw it at room temperature and savor the delightful flavors again.

Serving suggestions can elevate your cake experience even further. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with this cake, adding an extra layer of indulgence. For a touch of elegance, drizzle some caramel sauce on top before serving. The combination of flavors will leave your guests raving about this delightful dessert long after the last bite.

Ingredients

For the Cake

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

For the Topping

1/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Mix and match your favorite types of apples for a unique flavor profile!

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 the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cardamom, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine with Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until just combined.

Fold in Apples

Gently fold in the chopped apples until evenly distributed.

Prepare Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and walnuts. Sprinkle over the cake batter.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your delicious Cardamom Apple Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream!

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your Cardamom Apple Cake, be sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can ensure precision, especially with flour, which can be easily packed down if measured incorrectly. Additionally, room temperature ingredients blend more seamlessly, so allow your eggs and butter to sit out for about 30 minutes before you start baking.

Don’t skip the step of folding in the apples gently. This ensures that they are evenly distributed throughout the batter without overmixing, which can lead to a dense cake. Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens can vary. Start checking the cake at the 35-minute mark, and remember that a toothpick should come out clean when it’s ready.

Variations to Try

While the classic Cardamom Apple Cake is delicious on its own, you can experiment with different variations to suit your taste. Consider adding dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for an added burst of flavor. You could also incorporate spices like nutmeg or ginger for a more complex spice profile, enhancing the cake's warmth and depth.

For a nutty twist, substitute the walnuts in the topping with pecans or almonds, or even try adding chocolate chips for a rich contrast. If you prefer a vegan option, you can replace the eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter and milk. These variations ensure that you can enjoy this delightful cake no matter your dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but the texture may vary slightly.

→ How should I store leftover cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, the cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.

→ What type of apples work best in this cake?

Firmer apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well, but feel free to mix different varieties.