Cardamom Apple Cake
Highlighted under: Indulgent Baking Ideas
Savor the delightful blend of warm spices and fresh apples in this Cardamom Apple Cake, perfect for any occasion.
This Cardamom Apple Cake combines the fragrant spice of cardamom with juicy apples, creating a deliciously moist cake that is perfect for any gathering or as a comforting treat at home.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The fragrant aroma of cardamom paired with sweet apples
- Moist and fluffy texture that everyone will adore
- Easy to make and perfect for sharing
A Perfect Dessert for Every Occasion
This Cardamom Apple Cake is an ideal dessert for various occasions, from family gatherings to festive celebrations. The harmonious blend of spices and fresh apples creates a comforting and inviting flavor that appeals to all ages. Whether you're hosting a birthday party, a cozy autumn gathering, or simply want to treat yourself, this cake is sure to be a hit.
The versatility of this cake allows it to shine as a delightful centerpiece for any meal. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert or enjoy it with a cup of coffee during your afternoon break. Its fragrant aroma and moist texture will leave everyone asking for the recipe.
Understanding Cardamom's Unique Flavor
Cardamom is a versatile spice that adds a distinctive warmth and complexity to baked goods. Its unique flavor profile, which combines hints of citrus and mint, elevates the taste of this apple cake, making it more than just another dessert. The fragrant spice complements the sweetness of the apples beautifully, creating a balanced dessert that's sure to impress.
When using cardamom, it's essential to consider its potency. A little goes a long way, so adding the right amount can enhance your dish without overpowering it. In this recipe, the measured teaspoon strikes the perfect balance, allowing the cardamom to shine alongside the apples.
Tips for Baking Success
To ensure the best results with your Cardamom Apple Cake, start by measuring your ingredients accurately. Baking is a science, and precise measurements can significantly affect the texture and rise of your cake. Using room temperature butter and eggs will also help achieve that light and fluffy consistency everyone loves.
Another important tip is to avoid overmixing the batter. Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined to keep the cake tender. Folding in the apples gently will also help maintain the cake's structure while adding delicious bites of fruit throughout.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
For the Topping
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Mix well and prepare to bake!
Instructions
Prepare the Oven and Pan
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, salt, and cardamom.
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. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk until just combined. Fold in the diced apples and cinnamon.
Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. For added sweetness, sprinkle the brown sugar and nuts on top. Bake for 45 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 it to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Enjoy your delicious Cardamom Apple Cake!
Storing and Serving Suggestions
To store your Cardamom Apple Cake, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to store it longer, consider refrigerating it, where it can last for about a week. This cake also freezes well; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer.
When serving, consider dusting the cooled cake with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Pair it with freshly whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for extra indulgence. This cake can also be enjoyed plain, allowing the flavors of cardamom and apple to take center stage.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with different types of apples in this recipe. Varieties such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji can bring their unique flavors and textures to the cake. Mixing different apple types can create a more complex flavor profile, ensuring each bite is a delightful surprise.
If you're looking to add a twist, consider incorporating other spices like nutmeg or ginger. A dash of lemon zest can also brighten the flavors and enhance the overall taste. For a nutty addition, try folding in walnuts or pecans along with the apples for extra crunch.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use different types of apples?
Yes, feel free to use your favorite apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a different flavor.
→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
→ How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for a week.
→ Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing.
Cardamom Apple Cake
Savor the delightful blend of warm spices and fresh apples in this Cardamom Apple Cake, perfect for any occasion.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Indulgent Baking Ideas
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
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
For the Topping
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cardamom.
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. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk until just combined. Fold in the diced apples and cinnamon.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. For added sweetness, sprinkle the brown sugar and nuts on top. Bake for 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 28g
- Protein: 3g