Looking for a dessert that combines simplicity and elegance? This Swedish Apple Cake recipe is a delightful treat that brings cozy, Scandinavian charm to your table. With tender, spiced apples nestled in a moist, buttery cake, this dessert is perfect for any occasion, from afternoon coffee breaks to festive gatherings.
Each bite is a harmony of flavors, with the tartness of the apples perfectly complementing the warm notes of cinnamon and cardamom. The cake’s golden crust gives way to a soft, tender crumb that’s studded with juicy apple slices, making every forkful a moment of pure comfort.
What makes it special? This cake’s understated elegance and rustic appeal are matched by its simplicity. The balance of sweet and tart, combined with aromatic spices, creates a dessert that’s both timeless and uniquely Swedish.
Perfect for celebrating apple season or simply indulging in a slice of something special, this Swedish Apple Cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Let’s get started and enjoy the sweet warmth of this Scandinavian classic!
Swedish Apple Cake
Equipment
- 9-inch springform pan
- Small saucepan
- Sifter or fine mesh sieve
- Mixing bowls
Ingredients
- 1½ tsp vanilla
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ cup butter, room temp
- 1½ cups flour
- 1⅔ cup sugar
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- 1½ tsp cinnamon
- 3 diced & peeled apples
- Optional: ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 2 tbsp half & half
- 1⅓ cup brown sugar
- 4 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a small bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla.
- Gradually combine dry ingredients with wet until just mixed.
- Fold in apples and nuts, if using.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes.
- For the caramel, combine brown sugar, half & half, and butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring until smooth.
- After 30 minutes of baking, pour caramel over the cake and return to the oven for 10-15 minutes, until the caramel is cracking and the cake is cooked through.
- Allow the cake to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for a balanced flavor.
- Walnuts or pecans add great texture but can be omitted for a nut-free version.
- Feel free to adjust the spices based on your preference; add cloves or cardamom for a different flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 250kcal |
| Total Fat | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Protein | 2g |
What to Avoid While Making This Recipe!
- Using Cold Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature to achieve a smooth batter and proper incorporation.
- Overmixing the Batter: Mix just until combined to prevent a dense texture. Overmixing can make the cake tough.
- Not Sifting Dry Ingredients: Skipping the sifting step can lead to lumps in the batter. Always sift flour, baking soda, and spices for a smooth mixture.
- Neglecting Apple Preparation: Make sure to peel, core, and dice the apples uniformly. Uneven pieces can result in inconsistent baking.