This Swedish Apple Cake is a cozy, comforting dessert that combines a buttery, spiced cake base with sweet, cinnamon-kissed apples on top. With its tender crumb and juicy apple topping, this cake is the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor. Serve it warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream for an irresistible treat.
Prep Time
- 15 minutes
Cook Time
- 45 minutes
Total Time
- 1 hour
Servings
- 8–10 slices
Ingredients
For the Apples:
- 2 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or similar tart variety)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Batter:
- ½ cup unsalted butter , softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional Toppings:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
- Peel, core, and chop the apples into bite-sized chunks or wedges.
- In a medium bowl, toss the apple pieces with 1 tablespoon lemon juice to prevent browning and brighten their flavor.
- Add ⅔ cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon to the apples. Stir to coat evenly, then set aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the batter.
Step 2: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
- Grease and flour a 9-inch round or springform pan , or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 3: Mix the Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and 1 cup granulated sugar using a hand mixer or whisk until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes .
- Add the eggs , one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract .
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour , baking soda , salt , and ½ teaspoon cinnamon .
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix—the batter will be thick.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. It may seem like a thin layer, but it will rise as it bakes.
- Spoon the macerated apple mixture evenly over the top of the batter, gently pressing the apples into the surface so they adhere but are still visible.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
- Bake the cake at 350°F (175°C) for 40–45 minutes , or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- The apple topping should be slightly bubbling, and the edges of the cake should pull away slightly from the pan.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before carefully transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve warm or at room temperature. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent touch.
Pro Tips
- Apple Choices: Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a balanced sweetness, or mix varieties for added depth of flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days , or refrigerate for up to 5 days . Reheat slices in the oven or microwave for best results.
- Make Ahead: This cake can be made a day in advance and stored at room temperature. Warm it slightly before serving for an extra cozy experience.
- Freezing: Wrap cooled cake slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months . Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition Facts (Per Slice, based on 10 slices)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fats: 10g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 28g
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Swedish Apple Cake is a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something truly special. The buttery, spiced cake base pairs perfectly with the sweet, cinnamon-laced apples, creating a dessert that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy afternoon snack, this cake is sure to become a favorite.
Ready to bake a slice of Scandinavian charm? Grab your ingredients and get ready to savor a cake that’s tender, flavorful, and utterly delightful—it’s apple goodness at its finest!
