Swedish Apple Cake

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that fills your kitchen with the warm aroma of spices and sweet apples, then this Swedish Apple Cake might just be your new favorite recipe! It’s a simple, rustic cake that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a busy weeknight, a family gathering, or just a little treat for yourself. The tender apples and buttery texture come together beautifully, making each bite feel like a hug from the inside.

This cake is not only delicious but incredibly versatile. You can whip it up easily on a lazy Sunday morning or serve it to guests with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Trust me; once you try this Swedish Apple Cake, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delightful cake in the oven in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves the comforting flavors of apples and cinnamon—perfect for kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it in advance, and simply warm it up when you’re ready to serve. It tastes great fresh or at room temperature.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of spices adds depth to the cake, making each bite an enjoyable experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this Swedish Apple Cake is straightforward thanks to its simple, wholesome ingredients. Gather these items, and let’s get baking!

• 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)

Variations

One of the best parts about baking is how flexible recipes can be! You can easily make this Swedish Apple Cake your own with these fun variations:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Try Other Fruits: Substitute half of the apples with pears or even berries for a different twist.
• Use Whole Wheat Flour: For a healthier option, swap out all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
• Mix in Dried Fruits: Adding raisins or dried cranberries brings another layer of flavor and texture.

How to Make Swedish Apple Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your baking pan and lining it with parchment paper ensures easy removal later on. This step is crucial because you want your cake to come out beautifully without sticking!

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

Peel, core, and thinly slice your apples while waiting for the oven to heat up. Set them aside; they will add that wonderful fruity flavor as they bake into the cake.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and cardamom. This step helps evenly distribute all the dry ingredients so that your cake rises perfectly!

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and yogurt (or sour cream) until smooth. Combining these ingredients properly creates a rich base for your batter.

Step 5: Merge Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a thick batter that’s still spreadable.

Step 6: Layer Batter and Apples

Spread half of the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Then arrange half of your apple slices over this layer. It’s important to do this step carefully so every bite has delicious apple goodness.

Step 7: Top with Remaining Batter and Apples

Dollop the remaining batter over the apples gently spreading it out before decorating with more apple slices on top. This layering creates that lovely apple topping everyone will enjoy.

Step 8: Sprinkle Sugar & Cinnamon Mixture

In a small bowl, mix together sugar and cinnamon for your topping. Sprinkle this evenly over the apples; it adds an irresistible sweet crunch as it bakes!

Step 9: Bake Your Cake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 40–45 minutes until golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean—this shows that it’s perfectly baked!

Step 10: Cool Before Serving

Let your cake cool in the pan for about 10–15 minutes before slicing. This waiting period allows flavors to settle in nicely. Enjoy warm or at room temperature—it’s delightful either way!

Pro Tips for Making Swedish Apple Cake

Baking this delightful Swedish Apple Cake is a breeze, especially with a few handy tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose the right apples: Opt for tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, as they hold their shape during baking and add a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the cake.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients to keep your cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture, which isn’t quite as enjoyable.

• Layer the apples creatively: For a visually appealing presentation, arrange the apple slices in a circular pattern on top of the cake. This not only looks beautiful but also ensures every slice has an equal amount of apple goodness.

• Let it cool before slicing: Allowing the cake to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes helps set its structure, making it easier to slice without falling apart.

• Experiment with spices: While cinnamon is traditional, feel free to play around with other warm spices like nutmeg or ginger for an extra flavor boost that can make your cake truly unique.

How to Serve Swedish Apple Cake

Serving this charming cake is all about enhancing its rustic appeal and creating a memorable experience for your guests! Here are some delightful ideas:

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a fluffy texture and balances out the dense cake.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over each slice provides a rich sweetness that elevates the flavor profile beautifully.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or almonds on top for added crunch and nutty flavor.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the warm spices and creates a delicious contrast with the warm cake.
• Greek Yogurt: Serve alongside a dollop of Greek yogurt for a tangy twist that pairs wonderfully with the sweet apples.
• Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers a refreshing side that balances out the richness of the cake.
• Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea makes for an inviting pairing, perfect for enjoying this cake at breakfast or during afternoon tea.

Enjoy your baking adventure with this Swedish Apple Cake! It’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your home.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Swedish Apple Cake is a fantastic option for meal prep! Its flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day. Plus, it stores well and can be enjoyed at various times—breakfast, snack, or dessert!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Slice the cooled cake into individual portions.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw the cake slices in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 15-20 seconds or until warm.
• You can also reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

If you have questions about making this delightful Swedish Apple Cake, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use different types of apples for Swedish Apple Cake?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are excellent choices, feel free to experiment with your favorite apple varieties. Just ensure they’re firm and slightly tart to balance the sweetness of the cake.

How long does Swedish Apple Cake last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, Swedish Apple Cake can last up to 3-4 days. If you freeze it, you can enjoy it for 2-3 months without losing its deliciousness.

Can I make Swedish Apple Cake without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute eggs with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup per egg). This will help maintain moisture while keeping the cake delightful!

What makes this Swedish Apple Cake special?

This recipe stands out because of its rustic charm and comforting spices. The combination of tender apples with warm cinnamon creates a cozy experience that is perfect for any occasion.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Swedish Apple Cake brings warmth and joy to your kitchen! Its simple ingredients come together beautifully to create a dessert that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. Enjoy baking this special recipe, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite flavors. Happy baking!