This yummy cake is made with apples, almonds, and a touch of cardamom. It’s moist and bursting with flavor, proving that you don’t need flour to make a delicious treat!
If you’re like me, you’ll love how easy it is to whip up! Just mix, bake, and enjoy that sweet apple aroma filling your kitchen. Perfect for guests or a cozy snack! 🍏
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a nice tartness. If you prefer sweeter apples, Fuji or Gala are great options. I love mixing different varieties for added flavor!
Almond Meal: If you don’t have almond meal, ground walnuts or hazelnuts can work too. Just be aware the flavor will shift slightly. I’ve also tried a mix of almond and hazelnut flour – delicious!
Butter: You can swap unsalted butter with coconut oil or even unsweetened applesauce for a lighter version. I sometimes use half applesauce and half butter for added moisture!
Cardamom: If cardamom is hard to find, cinnamon can be a good substitute. However, cardamom gives a unique floral taste that I absolutely adore in this cake.
How Do You Get a Perfectly Baked Cake Without Flour?
Baking without flour can feel tricky, but it’s simpler than it seems! Here are a few tips to ensure your cake comes out perfectly:
- Mixing: When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, fold gently to avoid overmixing, which could make the cake dense.
- Eggs: The eggs add moisture and structure, so whip them well. They need to be fluffy to help the cake rise.
- Baking: Keep an eye on your cake during baking! As ovens vary, start checking for doneness a few minutes early.
- Cooling: Allow the cake to cool properly in the pan before transferring to a wire rack. This prevents it from breaking apart.
Enjoy the unique taste and wonderful aroma of this almond-based cake!
Flourless Apple, Almond & Cardamom Cake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cake:
- 3 medium apples, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups almond meal (ground almonds)
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup sugar (plus extra for sprinkling)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 tsp ground cardamom
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder (optional, for lightness)
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds (for topping)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cake takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 45-50 minutes of baking time. After baking, let it cool for about 20 minutes in the pan and then cool completely on a wire rack. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 15 minutes before you can enjoy a slice of this delightful cake!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Pan:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, grease and line a 9-inch round springform pan or a cake tin with parchment paper. This way, you’ll easily get the cake out later!
2. Mixing the Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This will add air and help your cake rise. Once it looks good, add in the melted butter and vanilla extract. Mix until combined!
3. Adding the Dry Ingredients:
Now, it’s time to gently fold in the almond meal, ground cardamom, and baking powder (if you’re using it). Be careful not to overmix, as we want the batter to stay light!
4. Incorporating the Apples:
Next, fold in most of the apple slices into the batter, leaving some aside for decoration later. Once those are mixed, pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly.
5. Decorating and Baking:
Arrange the reserved apple slices neatly on top of the batter. Now sprinkle some sliced almonds and a bit of sugar over the top to give it that beautiful finish. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cake is golden, and a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean!
6. Cooling and Serving:
When it’s done baking, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 20 minutes. After that, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar before slicing and serving.
This cake is not only moist but also fragrant with the lovely flavors of apples, almond, and cardamom. It’s perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee. Enjoy your delicious creation!
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Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best. Each type will lend a different flavor profile, so feel free to mix varieties for a more complex taste!
How Do I Store Leftover Cake?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor!
Can I Substitute Almond Meal with Something Else?
Yes, you can use ground walnuts or hazelnuts as a substitute, although it might slightly change the flavor. If you’re looking for a nut-free option, try using sunflower seed flour, but be aware it can alter the color and taste a bit!
Is It Possible to Make This Cake Dairy-Free?
Yes! Simply replace the unsalted butter with an equal amount of coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute. You can also use unsweetened applesauce for a lighter option.
