As the aroma of warm cinnamon wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel transported to a cozy Swedish café, where each bite of the Swedish Apple Cake feels like a lovingly crafted hug from a grandmother. This cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a delightful blend of tender apples and spices that makes for a quick triumph in the baking world. Ideal for both busy weekdays and casual gatherings, this sweet treat offers a comforting escape from fast food with its wholesome ingredients and effortless prep. Plus, it doubles as a crowd-pleaser—perfect for impressing friends or simply indulging in a slice yourself! Curious about how to recreate this warm, inviting dessert in your own home? Let's get started!
Why is Swedish Apple Cake a Must-Try?
Irresistibly delicious: This cake is a warm hug for your taste buds, with tender apples complemented by cinnamon.
Quick to make: With just 15 minutes of prep, you’ll have a homemade dessert ready to impress!
Versatile: Enjoy it warm from the oven or at room temperature—ideal for any occasion, from casual brunches to cozy dinner parties.
Nostalgic flavors: Each bite transports you to Sweden’s charming cafés, making every slice a delightful escape.
For an extra treat, consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or check out our Pineapple Upside Down for a tropical twist! Your guests will adore this sweet masterpiece, no doubt!
Swedish Apple Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
• 3 medium apples – Use varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – This forms the base of your cake and helps achieve that comforting texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – Essential for helping the cake rise and become fluffy.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda – Aids in browning and adds a slight lift to the cake.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the sweetness of the apples and balances flavors.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – This adds the warm, spicy aroma synonymous with Swedish Apple Cake.
• ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom (optional) – Use this for a unique, aromatic twist if you're feeling adventurous.
• ½ cup unsalted butter – Melted and cooled, this adds richness and moisture to the cake.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake perfectly without overpowering the apple flavor.
• 2 large eggs – Lightly beaten, they bind the ingredients together for a tender crumb.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A splash brings out the natural sweetness of the apples.
• ½ cup plain yogurt or sour cream – This will keep the cake moist and tender.
For the Topping
• 2 tablespoon granulated sugar – A sprinkle on top enhances the caramelization of apples while baking.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – This final touch intensifies the comforting spices in the cake.
Now that you have the ingredients gathered, let’s move on to the fun part—baking this delectable Swedish Apple Cake!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Swedish Apple Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, generously grease a 9-inch round or square baking pan with butter or cooking spray, then line the bottom with parchment paper for easy release. This initial preparation sets you up for a beautifully baked Swedish Apple Cake, ensuring a flawless outcome.
Step 2: Slice the Apples
Peel, core, and thinly slice the three medium apples, choosing delightful varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a tasty balance of flavors. Once sliced, set the apples aside in a bowl while you prepare the batter. Their vibrant colors will add beautiful layers to your finished cake.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and optional ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom. This combination of dry ingredients ensures your Swedish Apple Cake rises beautifully and is infused with warm spice, creating a delightful aroma as it bakes.
Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, blend together the ½ cup of melted and cooled unsalted butter, ¾ cup granulated sugar, 2 lightly beaten large eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and ½ cup plain yogurt (or sour cream). Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy, creating a rich base that beautifully complements the apples in your cake.
Step 5: Bring it Together
Gradually add the dry ingredients mixture to the wet ingredients, gently stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep the batter light and fluffy for your Swedish Apple Cake. The batter should be thick yet easily spreadable, capturing all those wonderful flavors.
Step 6: Layer the Batter and Apples
Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared pan, creating a sturdy base. Next, arrange half of the apple slices in a single layer on top of the batter; their sweet juiciness will cook beautifully into the cake, adding bursts of flavor with every bite.
Step 7: Top with More Batter
Dollop the remaining batter over the apple layer, gently spreading it to cover the apples. Aim for an even layer to ensure the apples are perfectly baked beneath the surface, enhancing the luscious texture of your Swedish Apple Cake.
Step 8: Decorate with Apples
Arrange the remaining apple slices in a decorative pattern on top of the batter. This will not only create an appealing look but also allow the apples to caramelize beautifully during baking, adding a golden finish to your cake.
Step 9: Sprinkle the Topping
In a small bowl, mix together the 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon for the topping. Evenly sprinkle this sweet mixture over the apples, enhancing their flavor while helping achieve a charmingly crisp top on your Swedish Apple Cake.
Step 10: Bake the Cake
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The delicious aroma will fill your kitchen, promising a delightful treat to come.
Step 11: Cool Before Slicing
Once baked, remove the Swedish Apple Cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes. This resting time helps set the cake, making it easier to slice. Carefully lift it from the pan and enjoy it warm or at room temperature with a sprinkle of powdered sugar if desired.
How to Store and Freeze Swedish Apple Cake
Fridge: Store your Swedish Apple Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and prevents it from drying out while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be kept for up to 3 months, perfect for whenever you crave a slice of this delightful cake.
Reheating: To enjoy, thaw slices in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes until just warmed through. Enjoy the comforting aroma of freshly baked Swedish Apple Cake once again!
What to Serve with Swedish Apple Cake
Indulging in a slice of this luscious cake is just the beginning—let's enhance the experience by exploring delightful pairings!
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream beautifully balances the warm spices, making each bite a heavenly delight.
- Whipped Cream: A cloud of whipped cream on top adds a light, fluffy texture and enhances the cake's sweetness, creating an inviting dessert.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel on each slice brings an enticing sweetness and a hint of luxury, perfect for special occasions.
- Coffee or Tea: A hot cup of freshly brewed coffee or fragrant tea complements the spices wonderfully, making your dessert experience feel complete.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or blueberries add a burst of freshness, offering a lovely contrast to the cake's warm flavors.
- Cinnamon Apple Cider: This spiced drink harmonizes with the cake’s flavor profile, enhancing that cozy, comforting feeling.
Whether you choose to stick with classic accompaniments or venture toward new pairings, each option promises to elevate your enjoyment of Swedish Apple Cake to new heights!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Swedish Apple Cake preparations are excellent for meal prep, saving you time and effort during busy weeknights! You can peel and slice the apples up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in a bowl of water with a splash of lemon juice to prevent browning. For the batter, you can mix the dry ingredients and the wet ingredients separately and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, just combine the dry and wet ingredients, layer them with the apples, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy a fresh, flavorful cake that tastes just as delicious, all with minimal hassle!
Expert Tips for Swedish Apple Cake
Choose the Right Apples: Opt for a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp to balance flavors beautifully.
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, stir just until incorporated—overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the light and fluffy texture you desire.
Layer Smartly: Make sure to evenly distribute the apple slices across the batter layers for consistent flavor in every bite of your Swedish Apple Cake.
Keep an Eye on Baking: Baking times may vary; check for doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center, ensuring it comes out clean before removing it from the oven.
Let it Rest: Allow your cake to cool in the pan for at least 10–15 minutes before slicing; this helps it set and makes for easier cutting.
Swedish Apple Cake Variations
Feel free to personalize this delectable cake with your own creative twists and adaptations!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a delicious gluten-free option.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil instead of butter and almond or soy yogurt for a dairy-free delight.
- Apple Varieties: Experiment with different apple types like Fuji or Pink Lady for unique flavor profiles.
- Nutty Goodness: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch.
- Spice it Up: For an extra kick, include ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg along with the cinnamon to deepen the flavor.
- Caramel Drizzle: After baking, drizzle store-bought or homemade caramel sauce over the cake for an indulgent touch.
- Citrus Zest: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of lemon or orange zest into the batter for a refreshing citrus burst.
- Fruity Twist: Add ½ cup of dried cranberries or raisins to the batter for added sweetness and texture.
Make your own masterpiece by mixing and matching these ideas! And if you’re looking for another sweet treat, check out our delightful Apple Crisp Cheesecake—it’s sure to be a hit!
Swedish Apple Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of apples work best for Swedish Apple Cake?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. Their complementary flavors create a beautiful balance, keeping the cake from being overly sweet while adding a delightful tartness.
How should I store leftover Swedish Apple Cake?
After cooling, store your Swedish Apple Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and prevents moisture loss while allowing the flavors to deepen. If you'd like to keep it longer, consider freezing!
Can I freeze Swedish Apple Cake?
Yes! To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe container. This method helps preserve the cake’s moist texture, and you can enjoy it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What if my Swedish Apple Cake is too dense?
If your cake turns out dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter after combining the wet and dry ingredients. Make sure to stir just until everything is incorporated for a light, fluffy texture. Also, check your baking powder and baking soda for freshness, as expired leavening agents can affect the rise.
Is Swedish Apple Cake suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
If you have dietary considerations, you can easily adjust the recipe. For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. If you need a dairy-free version, use plant-based yogurt and butter. Just be mindful of potential allergens, particularly regarding the apples and any pantry staples used. Enjoy the cake safely!
Irresistibly Moist Swedish Apple Cake You’ll Adore
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking pan.
- Peel, core, and slice the apples. Set aside.
- Whisk together dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
- In a separate bowl, mix the wet ingredients until smooth.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients gently until just mixed.
- Spread half of the batter in the prepared pan, layer with apple slices.
- Top with remaining batter and arrange more apple slices on top.
- Mix sugar and cinnamon for the topping and sprinkle over the apples.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool the cake for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
Leave a Reply