If you’re looking for a comforting, naturally sweet, and utterly delightful treat to welcome the flavors of fall, this Swedish Apple Cake Recipe is an absolute treasure. With tender apple slices nestled atop a moist, lightly spiced cake, every bite offers a perfect balance of fruitiness and warmth. Whether you’re baking for a cozy family gathering or simply craving a slice with your afternoon coffee, this traditional Scandinavian dessert brings simple ingredients together to create something spectacularly memorable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this Swedish Apple Cake Recipe is how straightforward and accessible the ingredients are. Each item plays a key role in shaping the cake’s tender crumb, subtle spice, and fruity freshness that make it so irresistible.
- 2 cups apples (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced): Choose tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the perfect brightness and texture.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Keeps the apple slices fresh and adds a hint of tang to balance sweetness.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Forms the delicate base of the cake batter.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps your cake rise light and fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds that classic warm spice that pairs beautifully with apples.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): Contributes richness and moistness to the cake texture.
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake just right for a balanced flavor.
- 2 large eggs: Provide structure and richness to the batter.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Offers a subtle aromatic note that lifts the whole cake.
- 1/4 cup milk: Adds moisture to create a tender crumb.
- 1 tablespoon turbinado sugar or granulated sugar (for topping): Sprinkled on top for a pretty, crunchy finish.
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional): Perfect for a delicate, elegant touch when serving.
How to Make Swedish Apple Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Apples
Start by peeling, coring, and thinly slicing your apples. Toss them gently with the lemon juice to prevent browning and to introduce a zesty brightness that complements the cake’s sweet base.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together your all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. This step ensures even distribution of the rising agents and spices, which is crucial for that perfect texture and flavor in every bite.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using a mixer or a strong whisk, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale. This creaming process is key to infusing air into the batter, resulting in a tender and airy cake.
Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, making sure each one is fully mixed in before adding the next. Follow by stirring in the vanilla extract for that rich, inviting aroma and flavor. This builds the backbone of your cake batter strength and character.
Step 5: Combine Flour Mixture and Milk
Alternate adding the dry flour ingredients and milk into the butter mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid over-mixing here to keep your cake light and avoid a tough crumb.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Spread the batter evenly into a greased and floured 9-inch round or springform pan. Artfully arrange the sliced apples in a circular pattern on top, then sprinkle with turbinado or granulated sugar for that golden, slightly crunchy topping. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 40 minutes until the cake is golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let your Swedish Apple Cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. If you want to give it an extra-special touch, dust with powdered sugar just before serving. This cake tastes wonderful warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for any occasion.
How to Serve Swedish Apple Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar is a classic finishing touch that adds visual elegance and a hint of sweetness. Alternatively, a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes the experience utterly indulgent and perfect for dessert.
Side Dishes
This Swedish Apple Cake is fantastic on its own but pairs beautifully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a warm cup of tea. If you want to round out a brunch or afternoon tea, complement it with fresh fruit or a simple green salad for balance.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving slices with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of toasted chopped nuts for an unexpected crunch. For a festive look, add a few fresh apple slices arranged alongside each serving, turning your cake into a centerpiece of rustic charm.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Swedish Apple Cake keeps wonderfully at room temperature for up to two days when covered with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. For best flavor and texture, store in the fridge if you plan to keep it beyond that time.
Freezing
You can freeze the cake, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and then foil, for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then bring it to room temperature or gently warm it before serving to revive its fresh-baked charm.
Reheating
To enjoy the Swedish Apple Cake warm, reheat individual slices in a microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds or briefly in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes. This restores that just-baked softness and enhances the spice aromas.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples in this recipe?
Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best for their firmness and balance of sweetness and acidity, feel free to experiment with other varieties depending on your taste preference and what’s available.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Just ensure the blend contains a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best texture. The cake may be slightly denser but still delicious.
Can I add nuts or other fruits to the cake?
Definitely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can be mixed into the batter or sprinkled on top for added texture. You can also fold in dried cranberries or raisins for a little extra tartness and sweetness.
What is the best way to slice this cake?
Use a sharp serrated knife and cut gently to avoid smashing the tender apple topping. Cleaning the knife between slices helps keep clean edges and pretty presentation.
Is this cake suitable for special occasions?
Without a doubt. The Swedish Apple Cake Recipe offers a rustic elegance that works beautifully for family dinners, holiday celebrations, or even casual get-togethers. Its warmth and simplicity make it a crowd-pleaser every time.
Final Thoughts
Trying this Swedish Apple Cake Recipe is like inviting a little slice of Scandinavian coziness into your kitchen. With its harmonious blend of tart apples, delicate spice, and buttery cake, it’s sure to become a beloved staple you’ll reach for whenever comfort and sweetness are on your mind. So go ahead, bake a batch, and watch your friends and family fall in love bite after bite.
Print
Swedish Apple Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic Swedish Apple Cake recipe features tender, cinnamon-spiced cake topped with thinly sliced tart apples arranged beautifully in a circular pattern. Lightly sweetened with turbinado sugar for a delightful golden crunch, this dessert is perfect for fall gatherings or anytime you crave a homestyle fruit cake with a rustic Scandinavian touch.
Ingredients
Apples
- 2 cups apples (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup milk
Topping
- 1 tablespoon turbinado sugar or granulated sugar (for topping)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or springform pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy release.
- Toss Apples with Lemon Juice: In a bowl, combine the thinly sliced apples with lemon juice to prevent browning and add a subtle tangy flavor. Set aside.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and spices.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating the cake’s tender texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time to incorporate air and structure, then add the vanilla extract for flavor depth.
- Combine Batter: Alternately add the dry flour mixture and milk to the creamed butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, careful not to overmix to keep the cake tender.
- Assemble the Cake: Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Arrange the apple slices on top in a circular pattern, creating an attractive, rustic presentation.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle turbinado sugar over the apples to add a sweet, crunchy texture once baked.
- Bake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top turns golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired for an elegant touch.
Notes
- Serve warm or at room temperature, either plain or accompanied by whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
- Tart apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best to balance the cake’s sweetness and provide a pleasant texture.
- Ensure apples are sliced thinly for even cooking and attractive layering.
- The cake can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Swedish
