There’s something magical about the aroma of apples, cinnamon, and butter wafting through the kitchen. If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dessert that combines a soft cake base with juicy apples and a caramel-like topping, this Swedish Apple Cake will quickly become one of your favorites.
Simple to prepare yet rich in taste, this Scandinavian delight is perfect for holidays, cozy weekends, or impressing guests at your next gathering. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe that brings warmth to every bite.
Why Swedish Apple Cake is So Special
Unlike American-style apple pie or crisps, the Swedish version is more of a dense, moist cake topped with a generous amount of sliced apples that become tender and caramelized during baking. It’s lightly spiced, buttery, and slightly rustic — making it an authentic comfort dessert that pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of cream.
What truly sets it apart is its simplicity. You don’t need fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. Just a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh apples are all it takes to create a show-stopping dessert.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious apple cake:
For the Cake:
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup (120ml) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
For the Apple Topping:
- 3 to 4 medium apples (preferably firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Optional Garnishes:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Caramel sauce for drizzling
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch round or square baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Make the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and eggs until pale and fluffy. Slowly pour in the melted butter while whisking continuously, followed by the vanilla extract.
Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt together in a separate bowl. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula until well combined. The batter will be slightly thick.
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly using a spatula.
3. Prepare the Apple Topping
In another bowl, combine the diced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Toss until all the apples are well coated with the mixture.
Evenly distribute the apple mixture over the cake batter. Slightly press them into the batter so they bake into the cake as it rises.
4. Bake
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
The apples on top should be tender and slightly caramelized, while the base remains rich and moist.
5. Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 15–20 minutes before slicing. For a more elegant presentation, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with warm caramel sauce just before serving.
Serve warm or at room temperature with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on the side.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use firm apples: Softer apples tend to break down during baking and can make the cake soggy. Stick with varieties that hold their shape like Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, or Granny Smith.
- Don’t overmix: Once you combine the flour with the wet ingredients, mix gently to avoid developing too much gluten, which can lead to a tough cake.
- Make it gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a delicious gluten-free version.
- Add nuts for crunch: Chopped walnuts or pecans sprinkled on top before baking can add texture and a nutty flavor.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This cake stores well at room temperature for up to two days. To keep it moist, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. You can also refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Reheat slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds to revive that just-baked feel.
If you’re planning to serve this at a gathering, feel free to bake it a day in advance. In fact, many say it tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld.
A Versatile Dessert for Any Occasion
Swedish Apple Cake is more than just a seasonal favorite. Its simplicity and comforting flavor make it a year-round go-to for anyone who loves homemade desserts that taste like a warm hug. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering, holiday brunch, or a simple afternoon tea, this cake will always have a place on the table.
For those with dietary preferences or allergies, you can easily adapt this recipe. Use plant-based butter and egg alternatives to make it vegan. Swap the sugar with a natural sweetener like coconut sugar or monk fruit for a lower-glycemic version. The results are still mouthwatering.
Final Thoughts
With its rustic charm, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and luscious apple topping, Swedish Apple Cake is a timeless treat that never fails to impress. It’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special.
So the next time you’re craving a dessert that’s easy to make, delightful to serve, and perfect with a hot cup of coffee or tea — bake this cake. One bite and you’ll understand why it’s a Scandinavian classic that continues to win hearts around the world.