Swedish Apple Cake

Swedish Apple Cake

This Swedish Apple Cake is a cherished family favorite, packed with cinnamon-spiced apples, a buttery, moist crumb, and a golden sugar crust. It’s the kind of dessert that disappears first at every gathering. Now, you can bring that same warm, nostalgic comfort to your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Cake

  • Soft, caramel-like apples with warm spices
  • Tender, buttery cake that’s almost like a cross between cake and apple pie
  • Simple and foolproof—just mix, layer, and bake
  • Smells incredible while baking

Ingredients

For the Apple Layer:

  • 4 cups apples (about 4 medium), peeled and thinly sliced (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work best)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (prevents browning)
  • ½ cup (100g) brown sugar
  • 1½ teaspoons cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg

For the Cake Batter:

  • 1½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
  • 1½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup (120ml) milk

For the Crunchy Topping:

  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Apples

Toss apple slices with lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Let them sit while you prepare the batter. This helps release their natural juices for extra flavor.

Make the Cake Batter

  1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  2. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract until smooth.
  4. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk, mixing just until combined.

Assemble and Bake

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a 9-inch springform pan or square baking dish.
  3. Spread half the batter into the pan.
  4. Layer spiced apples evenly over the batter.
  5. Dollop the remaining batter on top (it’s fine if apples peek through).
  6. Mix sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle over the top.
  7. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  8. Let cool for 15 minutes before slicing.

Tips for the Best Swedish Apple Cake

  • Mix tart and sweet apples for a balanced flavor.
  • Avoid overmixing to keep the cake soft and tender.
  • Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
  • Storage: Keep covered at room temperature for up to two days.

Serving Ideas

  • Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
  • Add a dollop of custard for a Nordic twist.
  • Drizzle with caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

Final Thoughts

This Swedish Apple Cake isn’t just dessert—it’s a memory-maker. Every bite is filled with warmth, nostalgia, and pure comfort. Bake it today and watch it disappear just like Mom’s did.

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