Cardamom Apple Cake
Highlighted under: Sweet Bakes
Delight in the warm spices and tender apples of this Cardamom Apple Cake, perfect for any occasion.
This Cardamom Apple Cake is a delightful blend of sweet apples and fragrant cardamom, making it a perfect dessert for fall gatherings or cozy evenings at home.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Warm and aromatic cardamom flavor enhances the sweetness of apples
- Moist and tender cake that pairs beautifully with tea or coffee
- Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, from casual to festive
The Perfect Blend of Flavors
This Cardamom Apple Cake is a delightful fusion of warm spices and fresh fruit. The aromatic cardamom not only enhances the sweetness of the apples but also adds an exotic twist to a classic dessert. Each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors that evokes feelings of comfort and nostalgia, making this cake an ideal choice for gatherings or quiet afternoons at home.
The combination of tender, juicy apples and the fragrant spice creates a cake that is both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you're serving it for a special occasion or enjoying a simple family dinner, this cake is sure to impress. The versatility of the flavors allows it to be paired beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a favorite among friends and family.
Simple to Make, Delightful to Share
One of the best aspects of this Cardamom Apple Cake is its simplicity. With straightforward ingredients and an easy-to-follow recipe, even novice bakers can achieve delicious results. The preparation process is quick, allowing you to whip up this delightful cake without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the use of fresh apples ensures a moist and tender texture that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
This cake is perfect for any occasion, be it a casual coffee date, a family gathering, or even a festive celebration. Its inviting aroma fills the home, creating an atmosphere of warmth and hospitality. Sharing this cake with loved ones is a joy, and it's sure to become a cherished recipe that you return to time and again.
Storage 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 extend its life, consider refrigerating it, though this may slightly alter its texture. For an extra touch, warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds before serving to bring back that just-baked warmth and aroma.
This cake can also be frozen for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it again, allow it to thaw at room temperature. Serve it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat that will impress your guests.
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 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups peeled and chopped apples (about 2 medium apples)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Topping
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Make sure 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.
Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cardamom, and salt.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream 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, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined.
Fold in Apples and Nuts
Gently fold in the chopped apples and walnuts (if using) until evenly distributed.
Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the cake batter in the pan.
Bake
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 to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Enjoy this delightful cake with a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Baking Tips for Success
For the best results, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before you begin baking. This allows for better emulsification when mixing the butter and sugar, resulting in a lighter, fluffier cake. Additionally, be careful not to overmix the batter after adding the flour, as this can lead to a denser texture.
When measuring flour, use the spoon and level method to avoid packing it into the measuring cup, which can result in too much flour and a dry cake. If you're using fresh apples, choose varieties that hold their shape during baking, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, to ensure a delightful texture in each bite.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with different types of apples to discover your favorite flavor combination. You can also add dried fruits, such as raisins or cranberries, for an extra layer of sweetness and texture. For a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts or substitute them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
If you want to elevate the cake even further, consider adding a cream cheese frosting or a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. This will enhance the cake's flavor and create a beautiful presentation for special occasions. No matter how you choose to customize it, this Cardamom Apple Cake is sure to be a hit.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other fruits in this cake?
Yes, pears or peaches can be substituted for apples for a different flavor.
→ 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, the cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
→ What can I serve with this cake?
This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a cup of tea.
Cardamom Apple Cake
Delight in the warm spices and tender apples of this Cardamom Apple Cake, perfect for any occasion.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Sweet Bakes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
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 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups peeled and chopped apples (about 2 medium apples)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Topping
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cardamom, and salt.
In a large mixing bowl, cream 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 extract.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined.
Gently fold in the chopped apples and walnuts (if using) until evenly distributed.
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the cake batter in the pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g