Swedish Apple Cake Recipe
If you’re searching for a cozy dessert that celebrates apples in the most comforting, homey way, this Swedish Apple Cake Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Imagine tender slices of tart apple nestled in a buttery vanilla cake, topped with a sprinkle of almonds or sugar for a delightful crunch. Whether you’re serving it warm from the oven with a scoop of ice cream or sneaking a slice with your afternoon coffee, this cake captures the simple, soul-soothing flavors of Scandinavian baking in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Swedish Apple Cake Recipe is that it relies on pantry staples and just a handful of fresh ingredients. Each one plays a key role, from the apples’ tartness to the butter’s rich flavor, and the hint of cinnamon that ties it all together.
- Apples (2 cups, peeled and thinly sliced): Choose tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Prevents the apples from browning and adds a pop of brightness.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Gives the cake a rich, tender crumb and classic buttery taste.
- Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Sweetens the cake and helps cream the butter for a fluffy texture.
- Eggs (2 large): Bind the batter together and add moisture.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/4 cups): Provides structure without weighing down the cake.
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Ensures a light, airy rise.
- Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses the cake with a gentle spice that pairs beautifully with apples.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and brings out all the other flavors.
- Milk (2 tablespoons): Loosens the batter so it bakes up moist and tender.
- Optional topping – Sliced almonds or turbinado sugar (2 tablespoons): Sprinkle on top for a lovely crunch and extra visual appeal.
How to Make Swedish Apple Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper. This little bit of prep ensures your Swedish Apple Cake Recipe comes out effortlessly and stays perfectly intact when you slice it later.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Peel and thinly slice your apples, then toss them with the lemon juice in a bowl. Not only does this stop the apples from browning, but it also adds a zesty freshness that shines through in every bite.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key for a soft, airy cake, so take your time and use a hand mixer or stand mixer for best results.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. This ensures your batter is smooth and well-blended, creating a perfect base for the Swedish Apple Cake Recipe.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined. You want a smooth, thick batter without overworking it.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and gently smooth the top. Arrange the apple slices in a circular pattern, overlapping them slightly for that classic Swedish look. Sprinkle with sliced almonds or turbinado sugar if you like. Bake for 40–45 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before turning it out onto a rack.
How to Serve Swedish Apple Cake Recipe
Garnishes
This cake is lovely on its own, but a dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of freshly whipped cream, or a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream takes it to the next level. The subtle sweetness and creaminess of these garnishes complement the tart apples and buttery cake beautifully.
Side Dishes
For a truly Swedish treat, serve your Swedish Apple Cake Recipe with a hot cup of coffee or spiced tea. If you’re hosting a brunch, offer it alongside a platter of fresh berries or a simple fruit salad for a light, balanced spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Try baking the cake in individual ramekins for personal servings, or slice it into wedges and stack them artfully on a rustic wooden board. You can even drizzle a bit of caramel sauce over each slice for a decadent twist on tradition.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers of your Swedish Apple Cake Recipe, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for up to five days. The cake stays moist and delicious, making it perfect for snacking any time.
Freezing
This cake freezes beautifully! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to three months, and you can thaw a slice whenever the craving strikes.
Reheating
To enjoy that just-baked warmth, reheat slices in the microwave for about 20 seconds or in a low oven until gently warmed through. The apples will soften up again, and the cake will taste freshly made.
FAQs
What are the best apples to use for Swedish Apple Cake Recipe?
Tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape and provide a lovely balance to the sweet, buttery cake. Avoid softer varieties, as they may become mushy during baking.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. The texture may vary slightly, but the flavor will still be delicious!
Do I need to peel the apples?
Peeling the apples is recommended for the traditional texture, but if you prefer a rustic look and a bit of extra fiber, you can leave the skins on. Just slice them thinly so they bake up tender.
How do I know when the cake is done?
The cake is done when it’s golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts browning too quickly, you can tent it with foil toward the end of baking.
Is this cake best served warm or at room temperature?
The Swedish Apple Cake Recipe is wonderful either way! Warm, it’s soft and comforting, especially with a scoop of ice cream. At room temperature, the flavors meld and the texture becomes even more tender.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dessert that’s humble yet heartwarming, this Swedish Apple Cake Recipe is sure to win you over. It’s the kind of treat that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Give it a try, share it with friends or family, and let those sweet apple aromas fill your kitchen with joy!
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Swedish Apple Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Swedish Apple Cake is a classic and simple dessert featuring tender, cinnamon-spiced cake topped with juicy apple slices. Perfect for fall, this moist and flavorful cake combines the sweetness of apples with a buttery crumb and optional crunchy almonds or sparkling turbinado sugar topping.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups apples (peeled and thinly sliced, about 2–3 medium apples)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons milk
Optional Topping:
- 2 tablespoons sliced almonds
- or turbinado sugar for sprinkling
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Toss Apples: In a bowl, combine the peeled and thinly sliced apples with lemon juice and set them aside. This will prevent browning and add a subtle tartness.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes on medium speed.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and spices.
- Mix Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the batter.
- Assemble Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Arrange the apple slices on top in a circular pattern, slightly overlapping each slice for an attractive finish.
- Add Topping: If desired, sprinkle the sliced almonds or turbinado sugar evenly over the apples to add crunch and sweetness.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes before removing it. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Notes
- This cake can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
- Toppings such as whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a light dusting of powdered sugar complement the cake beautifully.
- Choose tart apple varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Make sure not to overmix the batter to keep the cake tender.
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure even mixing and texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Swedish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
