Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch cake pan and set aside.
Peel the apples, then core and slice them into thin wedges. Toss the slices with a little lemon juice to prevent browning, then set aside.
2 cups all-purpose flour
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, cardamom, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
2 cups all-purpose flour
In another bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and slightly pale. Add the melted butter and buttermilk, then whisk until smooth.
2 cups all-purpose flour
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold with a spatula until just combined, avoiding overmixing to keep the cake tender.
Pour half of the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Arrange half of the apple slices evenly over the batter layer, pressing them slightly into the surface.
2 cups all-purpose flour
Add another layer of the remaining batter on top, smoothing the surface gently.
Top with the remaining apple slices, pressing them lightly into the batter for a beautiful layered look.
2 cups all-purpose flour
In a small bowl, combine the sugar and sliced almonds. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the cake for a sweet, nutty crust.
2 cups all-purpose flour
Bake the cake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Slice and serve this fragrant apple cake with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat. Enjoy the tender layers, warm spices, and crispy almond topping in each bite.