Name: Healthy Cardamom Pear Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Gluten Free
Ingredients: 1 ¼ cup (135g) gluten free oat flour; 1 cup (120g) almond flour; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 tablespoon cardamom seeds, freshly ground (reserve 1 teaspoon for topping); 2 Tablespoons ground flaxseed + 6 Tablespoons water (to make flax eggs); ⅓ cup (85g) unsweetened applesauce; 2 Tablespoons pure maple syrup + extra for brushing pears; ½ cup (120 ml) unsweetened almond milk (or any vegetable milk of choice); 2 Tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (or fresh lemon juice); 2 small-medium pears, peeled, cored, and sliced

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 39 reviews

If you are searching for a delightful treat that combines wellness and warmth, this Healthy Cardamom Pear Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. It offers a perfectly moist and aromatic cake infused with the earthy sweetness of ripe pears and the exotic spice of freshly ground cardamom. Each bite carries a balance of wholesome ingredients and just enough natural sweetness, making it a truly satisfying dessert without the guilt. Whether you are baking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, this cake proves that healthy can be utterly delicious!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows different cooking ingredients neatly arranged on a white marbled surface. At the top, there are four whole green pears, slightly shiny with some natural spots. To the right of the pears, there is a glass bottle filled with a white liquid, probably milk. Below the pears, there is a small white bowl with a tiny amount of salt and next to it a medium black bowl filled with coarse almond flour that has a light beige color and a crumbly texture. Next to the almond flour bowl is a blue-grey bowl filled with light brown oats. Below these, there is a small white bowl with a translucent slightly golden liquid and another white bowl filled with a golden syrupy liquid. To the right, there is a tiny glass container with dark brown liquid, likely vanilla extract. Two pink measuring spoons contain a white powder in one and black peppercorns in the other. At the very bottom right, there is a white bowl holding dark brown ground spices. On the left side, a metal measuring cup holds a thick tan liquid, maybe apple sauce. A grey cloth is visible in the bottom left corner. The lighting is soft and natural. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to any successful bake, and this recipe is no exception. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the cake’s tender crumb, subtle sweetness, and wonderful aroma.

Ground flaxseed + water: Combines to form a vegan egg substitute that binds the ingredients beautifully.
Gluten free oat flour: Brings a mild nutty flavor and helps keep the cake light and tender.
Almond flour: Adds richness and a delicate texture with a hint of natural sweetness.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
Baking soda: The leavening agent that gives the cake a gentle rise and airy crumb.
Unsweetened applesauce: Natural sweetness and moisture that replaces oil or butter traditionally used.
Pure maple syrup: A touch of sweetness with complex flavor — plus it’s completely natural.
Unsweetened almond milk: A dairy-free option that keeps the cake moist without heaviness.
Olive oil: Adds subtle richness and keeps the cake wonderfully tender.
Apple cider vinegar: Reacts with baking soda to lift the batter, ensuring fluffiness.
Freshly ground cardamom seeds: The star spice, lending an intoxicating aroma and unique flavor.
Pears: Fresh, peeled, and sliced to crown the cake with juicy sweetness and an elegant appearance.

How to Make Healthy Cardamom Pear Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Lightly grease a 7 or 8-inch springform pan to ensure the cake comes out smoothly when baked. This initial step sets the stage for baking success and helps maintain that perfect round shape.

Step 2: Make the Flaxseed Eggs

Combine 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed with 6 tablespoons of water in a small bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes gooey, mimicking the binding properties of eggs. This step is key for holding the cake together without using any eggs.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together 1 ¼ cups gluten free oat flour, 1 cup almond flour, ¼ teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon baking soda. Thoroughly blending these dry ingredients ensures an even rise and a smooth batter texture.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, stir the flaxseed mixture together with ⅓ cup unsweetened applesauce, 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup, ½ cup unsweetened almond milk, 2 tablespoons olive oil, and 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar. Mix until smooth and cohesive. This wet mix is packed with plant-based goodness to keep your cake moist and flavorful.

Step 5: Bring It All Together and Add Cardamom

Pour the dry ingredients into the wet and stir just until combined. Fold in 1 tablespoon of freshly ground cardamom seeds, reserving a teaspoon for topping. Cardamom infuses the batter with its warm, aromatic flair that elevates the whole cake.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Arrange the sliced pears on top in a single layer. For an extra touch of sweetness and shine, brush the pears with some maple syrup, then sprinkle with the reserved cardamom. Bake for 30 minutes or until the cake is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool before slicing and serving to let the flavors deepen fully.

How to Serve Healthy Cardamom Pear Cake Recipe

A slice of textured cake with two layers sits on a decorative white plate with floral patterns edged in gold. The bottom layer is thick and speckled with dark flecks, looking soft yet firm. On top, a smooth, lighter creamy layer rests, topped by a pale glossy or slightly shiny layer that looks moist. Around the slice, small dried rose petals add a pop of red and purple color on the plate and cake. A silver fork is placed near the front edge of the plate. Behind the plate, a white bowl with liquid and some rose petals can be seen on a white marbled surface. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like a light dusting of powdered sugar or a few whole cardamom pods on the side can beautifully complement the cake’s natural elegance. A drizzle of extra maple syrup or a dollop of coconut yogurt on each slice also adds a lovely finishing touch.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs splendidly with warm herbal teas, especially chai or chamomile, which echo the spices perfectly. For a heartier option, serving alongside a bowl of fresh berries or a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream transforms it into a more indulgent treat.

Creative Ways to Present

For an intimate gathering, serve the cake on a rustic wooden board adorned with sliced pears and sprigs of fresh mint. Alternatively, cut the cake into small squares and place them on decorative cocktail picks—perfect for sharing and nibbling at parties. This recipe’s gorgeous pear topping naturally lends itself to eye-catching presentations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Beyond that, refrigerate it to maintain freshness. Proper storage preserves the cake’s moistness and flavor without drying it out.

Freezing

You can freeze this Healthy Cardamom Pear Cake Recipe by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It freezes well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best texture.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10–12 minutes or microwave for 20–30 seconds to bring back that freshly-baked feeling. Reheating with a light covering prevents the cake from drying out while reviving its aroma.

FAQs

Can I use regular flour instead of gluten free oat flour?

Yes! If you’re not avoiding gluten, all-purpose flour can be substituted in equal amounts. The texture will be slightly different, but still delightful and moist.

What kind of pears work best for this cake?

Choose firm, slightly underripe pears such as Bosc or Anjou to prevent them from becoming too mushy while baking. Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the cardamom.

Is there a substitute for olive oil in this recipe?

You can use melted coconut oil or a mild vegetable oil as alternatives. Just keep the quantity the same to maintain the cake’s moistness.

How do I know when the cake is done?

The cake is ready when the edges pull away slightly from the pan, the pears look tender, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Can I make this cake nut-free?

To make it nut-free, replace almond flour with additional oat flour and use a nut-free plant milk. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will be a bit different but still scrumptious.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about sharing a recipe that combines healthfulness with indulgence so effortlessly, and this Healthy Cardamom Pear Cake Recipe does just that. It brings together cozy spices and fresh fruit in a way that celebrates wholesome baking at its finest. I hope you enjoy making and savoring this cake as much as I do—here’s to sweet moments made with love and mindful ingredients!