There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of warm spices and baked apples wafting through your kitchen. This Swedish Apple Cake is a celebration of simplicity and flavor, combining tender apples, cozy spices, and a soft, buttery cake base. With no need for frosting or elaborate decorations, this rustic dessert shines with its natural charm and versatility. Whether you’re serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoying it plain as a breakfast treat, this cake is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Swedish Apple Cake
Before we begin, here’s why this recipe stands out:
- Simple & Rustic: No fancy techniques or decorations required—just wholesome ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Warm Spices: Cinnamon and cardamom add a cozy, aromatic touch that perfectly complements the apples.
- Versatile: Serve it as a dessert, breakfast, or snack—it works beautifully in any setting.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour using pantry staples and fresh apples.
- Kid-Friendly: The sweetness and soft texture make it a hit with both kids and adults.
Ready to embark on this flavorful journey? Let’s explore the ingredients and detailed instructions.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering Swedish Apple Cake:
For the Cake:
- Apples: Use varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn for a balance of sweetness and tartness.
- All-purpose flour: Provides structure and ensures a tender crumb.
- Baking powder and baking soda: Help the cake rise and achieve a light texture.
- Salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Spices (cinnamon and cardamom): Add warmth and depth to the cake.
- Unsalted butter: Melted butter adds richness and moisture.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake without overpowering the apples.
- Eggs: Act as binders and contribute to the cake’s structure.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a hint of sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- Plain yogurt or sour cream: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
For the Topping:
- Granulated sugar and cinnamon: Create a sweet, spiced crust that caramelizes slightly during baking.
These simple yet flavorful ingredients come together to create a cake that’s both satisfying and comforting. Now, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to make the most delicious Swedish Apple Cake.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round or square baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This ensures the cake doesn’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.
Pro Tip: If you don’t have parchment paper, generously grease the pan with butter or nonstick spray and lightly dust it with flour.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Aim for slices that are uniform in thickness to ensure even baking. Set them aside while you prepare the batter.
Pro Tip: To prevent the apple slices from browning, toss them with a little lemon juice before assembling the cake.
Step 3: Make the Batter
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and cardamom. These dry ingredients form the foundation of the cake and provide structure and flavor.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, lightly beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and yogurt (or sour cream) until smooth. The melted butter adds richness, while the yogurt or sour cream ensures the cake stays moist.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—the batter will be thick but spreadable. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
Pro Tip: If the batter feels too thick, add a teaspoon or two of milk to loosen it slightly.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Arrange half of the apple slices in a single layer over the batter, slightly overlapping them for even coverage.
Dollop the remaining batter on top and gently spread it to cover the apples. Use a spatula or your fingers to press the batter into place if needed.
Arrange the remaining apple slices in a decorative pattern on top—for example, layer them in concentric circles or fan them out for a rustic look.
Pro Tip: Press the apple slices gently into the batter to help them adhere and prevent them from sliding off during baking.
Step 5: Add the Topping
In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon for the topping. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the apples. The sugar will caramelize slightly during baking, creating a sweet, spiced crust.
Pro Tip: For extra sparkle, sprinkle a pinch of coarse sugar or turbinado sugar on top before baking.
Step 6: Bake
Bake the cake for 40–45 minutes, or until it’s golden brown, the apples are tender, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure even browning.
Pro Tip: Check for doneness by gently pressing the center of the cake—if it springs back, it’s ready.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This allows the cake to set and makes it easier to remove from the pan.
Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added indulgence.
Pro Tip: Reheat leftover slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to enjoy them warm again.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This Swedish Apple Cake is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments:
- Dessert Option: Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a decadent treat.
- Breakfast or Snack: Enjoy it plain with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa.
- Pairings: Pair with a cheese platter featuring creamy brie or sharp cheddar for a balanced flavor contrast.
- Toppings: Drizzle with honey, maple syrup, or caramel sauce for extra sweetness.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage:
- Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat before serving to restore its texture.
- Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave.
Reheating:
- To refresh the cake, warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes.
Pro Tip: Freeze unbaked cake batter in the prepared pan, then bake directly from frozen, adding 5–10 minutes to the baking time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a different type of fruit?
A: Yes! Pears or thinly sliced peaches work well as substitutes for apples.
Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
A: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Q: What can I use instead of yogurt or sour cream?
A: Greek yogurt, buttermilk, or even mashed bananas can be used as alternatives to maintain moisture.
Q: How do I know when the cake is done?
A: The cake should be golden brown, the apples tender, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Q: Can I add nuts or oats to the topping?
A: Absolutely! Sprinkle chopped walnuts, pecans, or rolled oats on top for added crunch.
Q: How far in advance can I make this cake?
A: The cake can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored at room temperature or refrigerated until ready to serve.
Variations to Try
- Citrus Twist: Add grated orange or lemon zest to the batter for a bright, refreshing flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts on top before baking.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend and add 1/2 teaspoon of xanthan gum for structure.
- Vegan Version: Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use plant-based yogurt and butter substitutes.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to enhance the warm spice profile.
Final Thoughts
This Swedish Apple Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of simplicity, flavor, and comfort. Whether you’re baking it for a cozy family dinner, a holiday gathering, or a quiet afternoon snack, this cake is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction.
By following the detailed instructions, storage tips, and customization ideas provided here, you’ll be able to create a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the simplicity of this recipe, and treat yourself to a taste of homemade indulgence anytime you’d like. Enjoy every bite of this warm, spiced apple cake—you deserve it! 🍎✨
Swedish Apple Cake
Ingredients
- 3 medium apples (such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground cardamom (optional, but adds authentic Swedish flair)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar (for topping)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round or square baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Set them aside while you prepare the batter.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and cardamom.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and yogurt (or sour cream) until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. The batter will be thick but spreadable.
- Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Arrange half of the apple slices in a single layer over the batter.
- Dollop the remaining batter on top and gently spread it to cover the apples. Arrange the remaining apple slices in a decorative pattern on top.
- In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon for the topping. Sprinkle evenly over the apples.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown, the apples are tender, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or caramel sauce.
