Sweet Swedish Apple Cake Recipe: A Cozy Nordic Treat

Warm, golden-brown swedish apple cake sits proudly on our family’s dessert table, beckoning with promises of comfort and tradition.

Generations have cherished this delectable treat that blends sweet apples with delicate, buttery crumbs.

Nordic baking techniques shine through every carefully crafted slice, creating a dessert that speaks of home and heritage.

Crisp autumn afternoons find us gathering around, eager to savor each bite of this classic Swedish delicacy.

Fragrant cinnamon and tender apple pieces mingle in a dance of flavors that transport you straight to Scandinavian kitchens.

Soft, inviting, and wonderfully simple, this cake transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary experience that will delight every sweet tooth.

Let’s uncover the magic of this timeless recipe that continues to warm hearts and create lasting memories.

Ingredients for Swedish Apple Cake

• All-Purpose Flour: Soft and fine foundation for the cake texture.
• Butter: Rich and creamy base for delicious flavor.
• Sugar: Sweet crystal that adds delightful sweetness.
• Eggs: Smooth binding agent for cake structure.
• Milk: Creamy liquid that ensures tender crumb.
• Vanilla Extract: Warm aromatic enhancer for depth.
• Baking Powder: Gentle rising agent.
• Salt: Subtle flavor balancer.

• Apples: Crisp and juicy fruit for classic Swedish touch.
• Sugar: Light sweetener for apple coating.
• Cinnamon: Warm spice that complements apple flavor.

• Powdered Sugar: Delicate sweet dusting.
• Whipped Cream: Soft and airy optional accompaniment.
• Vanilla Sauce: Traditional Swedish serving suggestion.

How to Bake Swedish Apple Cake

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Get your oven ready by heating it to 350°F.

Grab a 9-inch round cake pan and prepare it by greasing the sides and bottom, then dust with flour or line with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Apple Treasures

• Apples
• Sugar
• Cinnamon

Slice the apples into thin, elegant wedges.

Sprinkle them with sugar and cinnamon, gently tossing to coat each slice.

Let the apples rest and soak up the sweet, spicy flavors while you create the cake base.

Step 3: Mix the Magical Cake Batter

• Flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Butter
• Sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Milk

Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.

In a separate large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until they become light and fluffy.

Add eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each.

Stir in vanilla extract.

Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients, alternating with milk, and mix until the batter becomes smooth and silky.

Step 4: Create Cake Layers

Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.

Artfully arrange the apple slices on top in a beautiful circular pattern, slightly overlapping each slice.

Gently press the apples into the batter.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes.

The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Allow the cake to cool for 10-15 minutes in the pan.

Step 6: Finish with Flair

Dust the cake with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar.

Serve warm, accompanied by a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of vanilla sauce for an authentic Swedish dessert experience.

Tips for Better Swedish Apple Cake

• Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp that hold their shape during baking and provide a nice contrast to the sweet cake.
• Toss apple slices in lemon juice after cutting to stop oxidation and maintain their fresh, bright appearance in the cake.
• Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread cake batter smoothly, ensuring consistent baking and a level surface.
• Check cake doneness early, as oven temperatures vary; start testing at 30 minutes with a toothpick to avoid over-baking and drying out the cake.
• Swap all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend, use plant-based butter and milk alternatives to make this recipe suitable for different dietary requirements.

How to Keep Swedish Apple Cake Fresh

• Store leftover Swedish apple cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain its delightful texture and flavor.
• If serving within 1-2 days, keep the cake covered at room temperature to preserve its moisture and softness.
• Warm slices in a preheated 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore the cake's fresh-baked warmth and crisp edges.
• Gently reheat individual slices for 10-15 seconds to prevent drying out, ensuring a tender and enjoyable dessert experience.

What Goes With Swedish Apple Cake

• Pair Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: Scoop a rich, cold vanilla ice cream alongside the warm Swedish apple cake to create a delightful temperature and flavor contrast.
• Recommend Cinnamon Tea: Brew a fragrant cinnamon tea that complements the cake's warm spices and enhances the apple's natural sweetness.
• Match Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Add a luxurious golden caramel sauce over the cake to elevate its flavor profile and provide extra decadent moisture.
• Serve Cardamom Coffee: Prepare a smooth, aromatic cardamom-infused coffee that connects beautifully with the cake's traditional Swedish flavor notes.

Apple Cake Twist Ideas to Try

• Gluten-Free Apple Delight: Replace wheat flour with almond or gluten-free flour blend, ensuring a tender cake for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Vegan Swedish Treat: Substitute eggs with mashed banana or applesauce, use plant-based butter and milk alternatives to create a dairy-free version.
• Reduced Sugar Option: Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener instead of regular sugar, and choose tart apple varieties like Granny Smith to balance sweetness.
• Nutty Apple Variation: Sprinkle chopped almonds or walnuts on top before baking for added crunch and nutty flavor profile.

FAQs

• What is the origin of Swedish Apple Cake?

The traditional Swedish apple cake, or “Äppelkaka”, is a beloved dessert in Sweden, often served during autumn when apples are freshly harvested and widely available.

• Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?

Yes, choose firm baking apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn that hold their shape during baking and provide a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.

• How do I know when the cake is perfectly baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake – if it comes out clean with no wet batter, the cake is done. The top should also be golden brown and slightly springy to the touch.

• Is this cake considered a traditional Swedish dessert?

Absolutely! Swedish apple cake is a classic family recipe passed down through generations, typically enjoyed during family gatherings and as a comforting afternoon treat with coffee.

Why Swedish Apple Cake Is Worth Baking

• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings, afternoon tea, or casual dessert nights, this cake suits almost any occasion with its classic charm.
• Seasonal Comfort Treat: Celebrate autumn's bounty by transforming fresh apples into a warm, aromatic dessert that fills your home with irresistible cinnamon fragrance.
• Quick Kitchen Magic: Prepare this delectable cake in under an hour, offering a swift solution for sudden sweet cravings or unexpected guests.

Swedish Apple Cake Recipe

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4.9 from 28 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Delightful Swedish Apple Cake brings Nordic comfort to your dessert table, blending sweet apples and warm spices. Creamy vanilla sauce and tender cake layers promise a delicious journey through Swedish culinary traditions you’ll savor with each delectable bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cake Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened

Leavening and Seasoning:

• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Liquid Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk

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Instructions

1. Prepare the baking vessel by coating a 9-inch round pan with butter and flour, ensuring complete coverage to prevent sticking.
2. Slice apples into thin, uniform wedges, then gently coat with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar, allowing them to rest and release natural juices.
3. Create a smooth cake foundation by thoroughly whisking flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate mixing bowl.
4. In a spacious mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until the mixture becomes pale and develops a light, airy texture.
5. Incorporate eggs individually into the butter mixture, mixing thoroughly after each addition to maintain a consistent blend.
6. Add vanilla extract, stirring gently to distribute the aromatic flavor throughout the batter.
7. Gradually fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with milk to create a silky, lump-free consistency.
8. Transfer the velvety batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly to create a smooth base.
9. Artfully arrange apple slices in a circular pattern across the batter’s surface, allowing slight overlapping for visual appeal.
10. Gently press apple slices into the batter, ensuring they are partially embedded but still visible.
11. Place the cake in a preheated oven at 350°F, allowing it to bake for approximately 35-40 minutes until a test skewer emerges clean.
12. Remove from oven and let the cake rest for 10-15 minutes, allowing it to settle and cool slightly.
13. Delicately dust the cake’s surface with powdered sugar, creating a elegant, festive finish.
14. Serve while still warm, accompanied by a dollop of whipped cream or traditional Swedish vanilla sauce for an authentic experience.

Notes

• Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Bramley for the best balance of sweetness and texture in your cake.
• Slice apples uniformly to ensure even baking and a beautiful presentation.
• Toss apple slices in sugar and cinnamon beforehand to enhance their natural flavor and prevent browning.
• Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake light and tender, stopping when ingredients are just combined.
• Gently press apple slices into the batter to help them sink slightly, creating a beautiful layered effect.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with almond or gluten-free flour blend.
• Enhance the cake’s moisture by adding a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the batter.
• Cool the cake completely before slicing to maintain its structural integrity and prevent crumbling.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Swedish

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 19g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 60mg