Swedish Apple Cake Recipe

If you have a soft spot for warm, cozy desserts that feel like a comforting hug, the Swedish Apple Cake is about to become your new favorite. This classic treat blends tender, cinnamon-speckled apples with a moist, lightly spiced cake that’s both simple to make and irresistibly delicious. Every bite offers a perfect balance of sweet and tart, with subtle hints of cardamom adding an authentic Swedish touch. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or indulging in a quiet moment alone, this Swedish Apple Cake captures the heart of traditional Nordic baking in a way that feels fresh and welcoming.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Swedish Apple Cake lies in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each component is essential: the apples bring freshness and sweetness, the spices add warmth and depth, and the mix of butter and yogurt creates a tender crumb that’s simply delicious.

• Apples (3 medium): Choose tart and crisp varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for bright flavor and perfect texture.
• All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): Provides the sturdy yet soft base for the cake’s structure.
• Baking powder (1 tsp): Helps the cake rise to a nice, fluffy height.
• Baking soda (1/2 tsp): Ensures a light, tender crumb alongside the baking powder.
• Salt (1/2 tsp): Enhances all the other flavors in the cake.
• Ground cinnamon (1 tsp): Adds that classic spicy warmth that pairs beautifully with apples.
• Ground cardamom (1/4 tsp, optional): Infuses an authentic Swedish flair that’s subtle but essential for tradition.
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted and cooled): Gives rich moisture and a tender crumb to the cake.
• Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Sweetens without overpowering, balancing the tart apples.
• Large eggs (2, lightly beaten): Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Delivers a mellow, fragrant background note.
• Plain yogurt or sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds tenderness and a slight tang that complements the apples.
• Additional granulated sugar (2 tbsp, for topping): Creates a delicate, sweet crust on top.
• Ground cinnamon (1 tsp, for topping): Sprinkled on top to highlight the spice and add visual appeal.

How to Make Swedish Apple Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round or square baking pan and line it with parchment paper. This step not only prevents sticking but also makes removing the cake after baking so much easier, ensuring your Swedish Apple Cake emerges perfectly intact.

Step 2: Slice the Apples

Peel, core, and slice your apples thinly. Thin slices cook evenly and beautifully soften within the cake, distributing their flavor throughout each bite. Set them aside while you mix the batter, so they stay fresh and juicy.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and cardamom. This blend of dry ingredients lays the essential foundation of flavor and texture for the cake, giving it the right rise and that inviting cinnamon warmth.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and yogurt (or sour cream) until smooth. This mixture adds the moistness and rich depth that makes the cake so tender and flavorful.

Step 5: Bring the Batter Together

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined. The batter will be thick but still spreadable. Avoid overmixing to ensure the cake stays light and tender — that’s the secret to the perfect Swedish Apple Cake.

Step 6: Layer Batter and Apples

Spread half of the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Arrange half of your beautiful apple slices in a single layer on top of the batter. This layering helps the flavors meld, with the apples baking into the cake’s soft interior.

Step 7: Add Remaining Batter and Apples

Dollop and gently spread the remaining batter over the first apple layer. Then arrange the remaining apple slices on top in a decorative pattern. This topping not only looks stunning but gives that wonderful texture contrast once baked.

Step 8: Add Cinnamon-Sugar Topping

Mix the extra granulated sugar with cinnamon in a small bowl and sprinkle it evenly over the apples. This sprinkle will caramelize slightly as the cake bakes, adding a delightful crunch and an extra touch of sweetness.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cake for 40 to 45 minutes or until golden brown and an inserted toothpick comes out clean. During this time, the apples soften, the spices bloom, and the cake develops its irresistible aroma that will fill your kitchen with cozy anticipation.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes. This resting time lets it set up for slicing without falling apart. Serve it warm or at room temperature — either way, this Swedish Apple Cake tastes heavenly, especially with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

How to Serve Swedish Apple Cake

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like a dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of chopped toasted almonds add a lovely finishing touch. You can also serve the Swedish Apple Cake with a swirl of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce to elevate its cozy appeal.

Side Dishes

Pair this cake with a cup of fresh brewed coffee or spiced chai for the ultimate afternoon treat. It also makes a lovely ending to a light lunch or dinner, alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a tangy dollop of crème fraîche.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, serve slices with a few fresh apple wedges or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like mint to add contrast. You can also plate it on rustic wooden boards giving a warm, homestyle vibe perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Swedish Apple Cake keeps beautifully covered at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to four days to maintain freshness. Keep it in an airtight container to preserve moisture and flavor.

Freezing

This cake freezes wonderfully. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. You can store it for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

To enjoy the Swedish Apple Cake warm, gently reheat slices in a microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or warm them in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) for 10 minutes. This brings back the fresh-baked softness and those inviting flavors beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples for this cake?

Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith offer a nice balance, you can try sweeter varieties like Fuji or Gala. Just keep in mind that sweeter apples will mellow the cake’s tartness.

What if I don’t have cardamom? Can I leave it out?

Yes, cardamom is optional but adds authentic Swedish depth. If you don’t have it, cinnamon alone still makes a wonderfully spiced cake that’s warm and delicious.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free Swedish Apple Cake, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Be sure your blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture.

Is it better to use yogurt or sour cream?

Both yogurt and sour cream add moisture and tang, so use whichever you prefer or have on hand. Plain Greek yogurt works great for a thicker batter, while sour cream adds a richer taste.

Can I add nuts or raisins?

Definitely! Chopped walnuts or almonds bring a lovely crunch, and raisins add bursts of sweetness. Stir them into the batter before baking for an extra special twist on this classic.

Final Thoughts

This Swedish Apple Cake is one of those recipes that’s both approachable and utterly delightful, perfect for cozy afternoons or holiday celebrations. Its tender crumb, spiced apples, and subtle cardamom magic make every slice feel special. Grab your favorite apples and get baking — I promise this cake will quickly become a cherished classic in your kitchen too!

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