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 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cardamom; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup buttermilk; 2 cups peeled and chopped apples (e.g., Granny Smith); 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Sweet Cravings Bakery

Delight in the warm spices and tender apples of this Cardamom Apple Cake, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-02T19:50:03.392Z

This Cardamom Apple Cake is a family favorite, combining the warmth of cardamom with the sweetness of fresh apples. Perfect as a dessert or an afternoon snack!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A fragrant blend of spices elevates the typical apple cake
Moist and tender texture with chunks of juicy apples
Perfect for cozy gatherings or a delightful tea time treat

      

The Magic of Cardamom

Cardamom is a spice that often takes center stage in many culinary traditions. Its unique flavor profile, reminiscent of citrus and mint, adds a delightful twist to baked goods. In this Cardamom Apple Cake, cardamom enhances the taste of the apples, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. This aromatic spice not only elevates the cake's flavor but also fills your kitchen with an inviting fragrance as it bakes.

Incorporating cardamom into your baking is also a great way to introduce new tastes to your family and friends. It pairs beautifully with other spices, such as cinnamon and nutmeg, making it versatile for various desserts. By using cardamom in this cake, you’ll impress your guests and leave them wondering about the secret ingredient that makes this dessert so special.

Choosing the Right Apples

The choice of apples can make or break your apple cake. For this recipe, Granny Smith apples are recommended due to their tartness, which contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cake. Their firm texture holds up well during baking, ensuring that you get delightful chunks of apple in each bite. However, feel free to experiment with other varieties such as Honeycrisp or Fuji, which can add a different sweetness and texture to the cake.

When selecting apples, look for those that are firm and free from blemishes. Fresh apples will not only taste better but also contribute to the overall moisture of the cake. Remember to peel and chop the apples evenly so they cook uniformly, allowing for a consistent texture throughout the cake.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Cardamom Apple Cake is incredibly versatile and suitable for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering with friends or looking for a sweet treat to accompany your afternoon tea, this cake fits the bill perfectly. Its warm spices make it an ideal dessert for fall celebrations, while its moist texture ensures that it remains a favorite year-round.

Additionally, this cake can be easily customized to suit your preferences. Consider adding a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. You can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert that everyone will love.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk
2 cups peeled and chopped apples (e.g., Granny Smith)

For the Topping

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

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

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 large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

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

Fold in Apples

Gently fold in the chopped apples until evenly distributed.

Prepare the Topping

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

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 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 to cool completely. Enjoy!

Serve warm or at room temperature, and pair with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream if desired.

Storage Tips

To maintain the freshness of your Cardamom Apple Cake, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you wish to keep it longer, refrigerating it can extend its shelf life for up to a week. When refrigerated, just remember to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and let it sit at room temperature before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Cardamom Apple Cake can be enjoyed on its own, but pairing it with complementary flavors can elevate your dessert experience. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream adds a creamy contrast to the warm spices of the cake. Drizzling caramel sauce over the top also enhances the sweetness and creates a beautiful presentation.

For a more festive look, consider adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts or toasted coconut on top of the cake before serving. This not only adds texture but also makes for an appealing visual that is sure to impress your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Yes, pears or peaches can also work well in this recipe.

→ How can I store leftover cake?

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 for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

→ What can I serve with this cake?

This cake pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.