Cardamom Cognac Apple Cake: Cozy Fall Favorite

Jump to Recipe

This Cardamom Cognac Apple Cake is the perfect autumn dessert. Moist, tender, and full of cozy spices, it blends the warmth of cardamom and cognac with the sweetness of Honeycrisp apples. Ideal for any fall occasion, this cake offers the perfect balance of flavors without being overly sweet, making it the ultimate indulgence for your seasonal baking.

Why You’ll Love This Cardamom Cognac Apple Cake

The Cardamom Cognac Apple Cake is a must-try recipe for any fan of fall baking. With its comforting flavors and simple preparation, it’s an excellent choice for both novice and experienced bakers. The cake is moist, almost pudding-like, thanks to the addition of buttermilk, which gives it a richness without being too heavy. Infused with aromatic cardamom and a splash of cognac, this cake offers a refined twist on classic apple desserts. Plus, it’s easy enough to make on a weeknight yet impressive enough for special occasions.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering Cardamom Cognac Apple Cake:

• All-purpose flour: Provides structure for the cake.
• Ground cardamom: Adds a warm, spicy note that enhances the apple flavor.
• Baking powder: Helps the cake rise, giving it a light texture.
• Kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake’s moistness.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake without overpowering the other flavors.
• Cognac: Adds depth with a subtle, fruity warmth.
• Vanilla extract: Provides a comforting, aromatic backdrop to the spices.
• Buttermilk: Makes the cake tender and moist, with a slight tang.
• Honeycrisp apples: The star of the show, providing a sweet and tart contrast to the cake’s richness.
• Unsalted butter: Adds moisture and flavor, helping the cake stay soft and fluffy.
• Turbinado sugar: Sprinkled on top for a bit of crunch and sweetness.
• Confectioners sugar: For dusting the finished cake, adding a touch of sweetness and elegance.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking to make substitutions for dietary preferences, here are some suggestions:

• For a non-alcoholic version: Replace the cognac with apple juice or a non-alcoholic apple cider.
• For a dairy-free option: Use almond or oat milk and replace the butter with a plant-based alternative.
• For a gluten-free option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own Cardamom Cognac Apple Cake:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a cast iron pan and line it with parchment paper.
Whisk together the dry ingredients: In a bowl, combine the flour, cardamom, baking powder, and salt.
Prepare the wet ingredients: In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs until foamy. Stir in the granulated sugar, cognac, and vanilla extract. Then, pour in the buttermilk and mix everything together.
Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and dice two and a half apples into small cubes. Slice the remaining half apple into thin slices to decorate the top.
Combine the mixtures: Gradually fold in half of the flour mixture, followed by half of the melted butter. Repeat with the remaining flour and butter, then fold in the apple cubes.
Transfer to the pan: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and arrange the apple slices in a circular pattern on top. Sprinkle with turbinado sugar.
Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a cake tester comes out clean and the cake is golden brown.
Cool and serve: Let the cake cool for a few minutes, then dust with confectioners sugar before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Tricks

To get the best results with your Cardamom Cognac Apple Cake, keep these tips in mind:

• Use fresh Honeycrisp apples for the best flavor and texture. They hold up well during baking and provide a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
• Check doneness with a toothpick: If it comes out clean, your cake is ready. If not, continue baking for a few more minutes.
• Dust with confectioners sugar generously before serving to add a lovely, sweet touch and a beautiful finish.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

While this cake is delicious on its own, here are some pairing ideas to elevate your dessert:

• Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a rich, creamy contrast to the spiced cake.
• Pair with a hot cup of spiced cider for a cozy autumn treat.
• Add a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra sweetness and indulgence.

If you want to make this cake ahead of time, it keeps well at room temperature for up to three days. You can also freeze individual slices for later enjoyment.

The Perfect Fall Dessert

This Cardamom Cognac Apple Cake is not just a recipe, it’s an experience. With its complex flavors and comforting texture, it’s perfect for any fall occasion, from casual get-togethers to Thanksgiving dinner. The combination of cardamom, cognac, and Honeycrisp apples creates a unique twist on traditional apple cakes, making it a standout dessert. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with family and friends, this cake is sure to become a beloved seasonal favorite.

Conclusion

The Cardamom Cognac Apple Cake is the perfect dessert to showcase the cozy flavors of fall. With its rich, tender texture and the delightful combination of cardamom, cognac, and Honeycrisp apples, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your seasonal baking rotation. Whether you’re serving it warm from the oven or enjoying it at room temperature, every bite offers a comforting taste of autumn. The balance of spice and sweetness creates a dessert that’s both sophisticated and comforting, making it ideal for family gatherings, holiday meals, or an afternoon treat. Don’t forget to dust it generously with confectioners sugar for that finishing touch!

FAQ

Can I use a different type of apple for this cake?

While Honeycrisp apples are highly recommended for their sweet and tart flavor, you can substitute them with other firm apples like Fuji or Gala. Avoid using soft or overly sweet apples, as they may break down too much during baking and alter the texture.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! This cake stores well and can be made up to 3 days in advance. Simply keep it covered at room temperature to maintain its freshness. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices for up to 2 months.

Is there a non-alcoholic version of this cake?

If you’d like to make this cake without alcohol, you can substitute the cognac with apple juice or apple cider. This will provide a similar fruity depth to the flavor without the alcohol.

More Relevant Recipes