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Swedish Apple Cake Recipe

Swedish Apple Cake Recipe

5.2 from 14 reviews

This classic Swedish Apple Cake is a moist, spiced dessert featuring layers of tender apple slices within a soft, cinnamon-infused batter. Enhanced with hints of cardamom for an authentic Nordic touch, this cake offers a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors. Perfect for cozy autumn gatherings or any occasion craving a comforting, homemade treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Fruit

  • 3 medium apples (such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced

Dry Ingredients

  • 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)
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar (for topping)
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for topping)

Wet Ingredients

  • 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

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round or square baking pan and line it with parchment paper to ensure easy cake removal after baking.
  2. Prepare Apples: Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Set them aside while you mix the batter, ensuring they stay fresh and ready to layer.
  3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and cardamom until evenly combined.
  4. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted and cooled butter, granulated sugar, lightly beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and plain yogurt or sour cream until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
  5. Combine Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently just until combined. The batter will be thick but still spreadable; avoid overmixing to keep it tender.
  6. Layer Batter and Apples: Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Arrange half of the sliced apples in a single layer evenly over the batter to create the first apple layer.
  7. Add Remaining Batter and Apples: Dollop the remaining batter on top of the apples and gently spread it out to cover them completely. Then, arrange the remaining apple slices on top in a decorative pattern for visual appeal.
  8. Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix the 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the top layer of apples to add a sweet, spiced crunch after baking.
  9. Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown, the apples are tender, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean without batter.
  10. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally accompanied by whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce to elevate the flavors.

Notes

  • For best flavor, use tart and firm apples such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn as they hold their shape well during baking.
  • Cardamom is optional but adds a traditional Swedish flavor dimension; feel free to omit it if unavailable.
  • If you prefer a dairy-free version, substitute the yogurt or sour cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut yogurt.
  • Make sure your melted butter is cooled to avoid cooking the eggs when mixing.
  • Line the baking pan with parchment paper to ensure the cake releases easily without breaking.
  • The cake can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
  • Reheat slices gently in the microwave or oven before serving for a freshly baked experience.

Nutrition

Keywords: Swedish apple cake, apple dessert, cinnamon cake, cardamom cake, traditional Swedish dessert, autumn cake