If you’re searching for a tender, cinnamon-scented treat to cozy up your kitchen, look no further than Swedish Apple Cake. This homey dessert wraps soft apples in a delicate, buttery crumb that’s just sweet enough and bakes up golden and inviting. It’s incredibly easy to make with a handful of pantry staples and fresh apples, but the result is pure Nordic magic—ideal for sharing over coffee or as a warming finale to any meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Swedish Apple Cake lies in its simplicity—each ingredient shines and brings something special, whether it’s a hint of tartness, creaminess, structure, or that unforgettable spiced aroma. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need and how each element earns its spot in this classic recipe.
- Apples: Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for slices that hold their shape and a hint of tartness to balance the sweetness.
- Lemon juice: A splash keeps the apples from browning and adds brightness to every bite.
- Granulated sugar: Divided for perfect sweetness; some for the apples and the rest for the tender cake crumb.
- Unsalted butter: Softened for easy creaming, it brings that classic cake richness and moisture.
- Eggs: Two large eggs help bind and aerate, making the cake plush and light.
- Vanilla extract: Adds delicious depth—just a teaspoon brings all the flavors together.
- All-purpose flour: Forms the backbone of the cake’s texture, giving it that classic soft crumb.
- Baking powder: Ensures your Swedish Apple Cake rises beautifully and stays fluffy.
- Salt: Just a pinch bolsters all the other flavors (don’t skip it!).
- Ground cinnamon: This cozy spice is essential for that warm, autumnal aroma and taste.
- Milk: A couple of tablespoons create a smoother batter and ensure a moist crumb.
- Powdered sugar (optional): For dusting the cooled cake—simple, pretty, and sweet!
How to Make Swedish Apple Cake
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Apples
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a 9-inch round cake pan so your Swedish Apple Cake slides right out later. Peel, core, and thinly slice your apples, then toss them gently with lemon juice and a couple tablespoons of sugar. This not only infuses them with subtle sweetness but also keeps them vibrant and fresh-looking while you work on the batter.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and remaining sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step helps trap air in the batter, which is the secret behind the cake’s tender texture. Take your time here; a few extra minutes mixing makes all the difference.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Crack in the eggs one by one, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, which fills the batter with a mellow, fragrant backdrop that lets the apples shine through. The mixture should look smooth and creamy at this point.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This even distribution ensures every bite of your Swedish Apple Cake has just the right lift and spice. Mixing the dry ingredients separately also prevents lumps in your final batter.
Step 5: Combine and Finish the Batter
Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into your wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry mix, stirring just until everything is blended—overmixing can make the cake tough. The batter will be thick, but that’s exactly what you want for supporting those beautiful apple slices.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Arrange your apple slices over the batter in a decorative circular pattern, gently pressing them into the surface. Pop the pan into the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center emerges clean.
Step 7: Cool and Dust
Let the cake cool slightly after baking—just enough that it sets but is still pleasantly warm. Dust with powdered sugar if you like, and get ready for the delightful aroma of your homemade Swedish Apple Cake to fill your kitchen.
How to Serve Swedish Apple Cake
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar brings an elegant, snowy finish to your Swedish Apple Cake. For extra indulgence, a dollop of softly whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of light caramel pairs perfectly with the warm, spiced apples.
Side Dishes
Keep your sides simple so the cake remains the star of the show. Pair slices with hot coffee, black tea, or spiced cider for cozy afternoon fika vibes. A platter of fresh berries or a crisp apple salad also complements the cake’s flavors nicely.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting your Swedish Apple Cake into petite wedges for a brunch spread, or bake mini versions in muffin tins for party-ready handheld treats. For a pretty, rustic touch, add edible flowers or a scattering of toasted almond slivers right before serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any remaining Swedish Apple Cake covered at room temperature for up to two days. If your kitchen is particularly warm, store it in the refrigerator to maintain the cake’s moisture and freshness.
Freezing
Wrap slices of cooled Swedish Apple Cake individually and stash them in a zip-top bag or airtight container. They’ll keep beautifully in the freezer for up to three months. Let them thaw at room temperature or pop in the fridge overnight for a make-ahead treat.
Reheating
If you love your cake slightly warm, reheat slices in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds or in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes. This helps refresh the texture and brings that just-baked aroma back to life.
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of apple?
Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are traditional for Swedish Apple Cake, you can use almost any firm, flavorful apple. Just make sure it’s not too soft, so the slices hold their shape while 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. Just be sure to check that your baking powder is gluten-free as well.
What if I don’t have a 9-inch round pan?
You can use an 8-inch round or an 8-inch square pan—just keep in mind the baking time may vary slightly, so check for doneness with a toothpick toward the end of the suggested bake time.
Can I add nuts or raisins?
Certainly! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even golden raisins can be gently folded into the batter or sprinkled on top with the apples for extra texture and flavor. Just be careful not to overload the batter, which might affect how the cake bakes.
How do I make the cake extra moist?
Using juicy, fresh apples and not overbaking are key, but you can also add an extra tablespoon of milk or a spoonful of sour cream to the batter if you like a slightly richer, moister crumb.
Final Thoughts
Bringing a warm, just-baked Swedish Apple Cake to the table always feels like a little celebration. It’s so easy to make, yet feels truly special every time. Give this recipe a try and share a generous slice with someone you love—I’m sure it will become one of your own cozy favorites, too!
Print
Swedish Apple Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful Swedish Apple Cake that features tender, cinnamon-spiced apples atop a moist, buttery cake. Perfect for fall baking or any time you crave a comforting dessert.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 large apples (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (divided)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons milk
For Dusting:
- powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- Prepare Apples: Toss apple slices with lemon juice and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Set aside.
- Make Batter: Cream butter and remaining sugar, add eggs and vanilla. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add dry ingredients to butter mixture, alternating with milk, until combined.
- Assemble: Pour batter into pan, smooth the top, and arrange apple slices on top in a circular pattern.
- Bake: Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Serve: Let cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- Best served slightly warm with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best for this recipe.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Swedish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 255
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 115mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
