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Cardamom Cognac Apple Cake

Cardamom cognac apple cake in a cast iron skillet, topped with sliced apples and dusted with powdered sugar.
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This Cardamom Cognac Apple Cake is a warm, spiced fall dessert made with Honeycrisp apples, cognac, cardamom, and buttermilk. Moist, rich, and perfect for holidays or cozy weekends.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons cognac (or substitute with rum or bourbon)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
  • 3 medium Honeycrisp apples
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted, plus more for greasing the pan
  • 1 tablespoon turbinado sugar
  • Confectioners’ sugar for dusting

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease an 8- or 9-inch cast iron skillet with butter and line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cardamom, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs until foamy, then whisk in the sugar, cognac, and vanilla extract.
  4. Add the buttermilk and whisk until smooth.
  5. Fold in half of the flour mixture, then add half of the melted butter. Repeat with the remaining flour mixture and butter.
  6. Peel, core, and cube 2 1/2 of the apples. Fold them into the batter.
  7. Transfer the batter to the prepared skillet. Slice the remaining half apple thinly and arrange on top in a circular pattern.
  8. Sprinkle turbinado sugar over the top.
  9. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until golden brown and a cake tester inserted in the center comes out clean.
  10. Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.

Notes

  • Ensure buttermilk and eggs are at room temperature for best results.
  • You can substitute cognac with rum, bourbon, or apple cider.
  • Use Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala apples for best texture.
  • Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
  • Add cinnamon, ginger, or nutmeg for extra spice if desired.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipeeasily.com/cardamom-cognac-apple-cake/