Cardamom Apple Cake

Name: Cardamom Apple Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cardamom; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 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 and chopped apples; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cardamom; 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Sweet Treats

Cardamom Apple Cake is a delightful blend of warm spices and juicy apples, creating a moist and flavorful dessert that is perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2025-12-02T18:38:02.608Z

This Cardamom Apple Cake is inspired by the rich flavors of fall. The fragrant cardamom pairs beautifully with the sweetness of apples, making it a comforting dessert that everyone will love.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Warm, aromatic spices that enhance the flavor profile
Moist and fluffy texture with chunks of fresh apple
Perfect for cozy gatherings or a sweet treat any day

      

The Magic of Cardamom

Cardamom is a spice that has been cherished for centuries, not just for its unique flavor but also for its health benefits. This aromatic spice, often used in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisines, adds a fragrant warmth to dishes that is unmatched. In this Cardamom Apple Cake, it plays a crucial role, enhancing the natural sweetness of the apples and providing a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes.

In addition to its rich flavor, cardamom is known for its digestive properties and is often used in herbal teas. Its subtle, spicy notes complement the sweetness of the apples beautifully, creating a harmonious balance that makes each bite a treat for the senses.

Choosing the Right Apples

When it comes to baking, the type of apple you choose can significantly impact the flavor and texture of your cake. For this recipe, opt for firmer varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. These apples hold their shape well during baking and provide a nice tartness that contrasts perfectly with the sweetness of the cake.

If you prefer a sweeter cake, you can mix different apple varieties to create a more complex flavor profile. Don't forget to peel and chop your apples into small chunks to ensure even distribution throughout the batter. This will add moisture and texture to your cake, making it all the more delicious.

Serving Suggestions

This Cardamom Apple Cake is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. For a cozy afternoon treat, serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warm cake paired with cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast that is sure to please anyone's palate.

For a more sophisticated presentation, consider dusting the cooled cake with powdered sugar or serving it alongside a spiced caramel sauce. This not only elevates the dessert but also enhances the flavor of the cardamom and apples, making your cake a standout choice for gatherings and celebrations.

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 cinnamon
1/4 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 and chopped apples

For the Topping

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

Make sure to have all ingredients 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 the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cardamom, cinnamon, and salt.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Fold in the chopped apples.

Prepare for Baking

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cardamom for the topping, and sprinkle it over the batter. Add chopped walnuts if desired.

Bake the Cake

Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

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

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

Storing Your Cake

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 for a longer period, consider refrigerating it, where it can last up to a week. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

If you decide to freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This will help prevent freezer burn and preserve its moistness. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and serve it the next day.

Tips for Success

Baking can be a precise science, so here are a few tips to ensure your Cardamom Apple Cake turns out perfectly every time. First, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before you begin mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and results in a lighter cake.

Also, be careful not to overmix the batter once you add the dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Instead, mix until just combined, and fold in the apples gently to maintain that fluffy texture.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with this recipe by adding different spices or mix-ins. For a nutty flavor, consider adding chopped pecans or almonds to the batter, or even a handful of raisins for added sweetness and texture. You can also substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.

For a tropical variation, try adding shredded coconut or diced pineapple along with the apples. These additions can transform your Cardamom Apple Cake into a unique dessert that offers an exciting flavor experience while still maintaining the warm, spiced essence of the original recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits in this cake?

Yes, you can substitute apples with pears or even a mix of berries for a different flavor.

→ How should I store leftover cake?

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

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ Is it possible to freeze this cake?

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