Auntie’s Secret: The Unexpected Twist in Apple Cake

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Baking an apple cake might seem straightforward, but I like to give it a twist by adding a splash of cardamom. The warm, spicy aroma mingles with the sweet scent of baked apples, creating a scented hug for your senses. Every time I make it, I remember my grandmother’s kitchen, filled with laughter and the smell of cinnamon and fresh apples.

This recipe is not just about taste; it’s about the nostalgia of fall mornings and cozy afternoons. It’s perfect for those who want a slice of comfort with a touch of exotic warmth. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to assemble, even on your busiest days, thanks to a simple shortcut that keeps the process stress-free.

Apple Cardamom Cake

This apple cake features tender baked apple slices combined with a moist, spiced crumb infused with fragrant cardamom. The final dessert has a golden crust with a soft, moist interior, showcasing a beautiful combination of fruit and aromatic spices. It’s baked until fragrant and lightly browned, ready to serve as a comforting treat.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour sifted
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 2 large eggs at room temperature
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cardamom
  • 2 large apples firm, such as Fuji or Honeycrisp
  • 1 tablespoon powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • 9-inch cake pan or springform pan
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • Peeler
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the cake pan and set aside.
  2. Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples into rings or half-moons. Arrange the slices to cover the bottom of the cake pan in an even layer.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and ground cardamom until well combined.
  4. Add the melted butter, eggs, and milk to the dry ingredients. Whisk until the batter is smooth and slightly thickened.
  5. Pour the batter evenly over the apple slices in the cake pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
  6. Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for about 15 minutes. Then, carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate, exposing the caramelized apple topping.
  8. If desired, dust the top with powdered sugar for a finishing touch. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Use firm apples for best texture. The cake can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving if desired.
Enjoy this apple cake as the seasons change and apples become ripe and juicy. Its balance of sweetness and spice makes it ideal for brunch or a late-night treat. Each bite carries a little story of childhood memories mingled with a hint of adventure.

Remember, the secret to a perfect apple cake is using good-quality, tart apples that hold their shape. This cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration of the simple joys found in home baking. Let the fragrant steam and slightly crisp top remind you that sometimes, the best comfort comes from a well-loved, slightly imperfect cake.

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