Swedish Apple Cake (Äppelkaka)

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Description:
Swedish Apple Cake is a soft, moist dessert made with fresh apples layered into a buttery vanilla-scented batter, topped with cinnamon sugar and sometimes almonds. It’s a homestyle cake traditionally served warm with vanilla sauce, whipped cream, or a scoop of ice cream. This comforting treat is perfect for autumn afternoons or any time you crave a rustic, fruit-forward dessert.

Origin:
Known in Sweden as Äppelkaka, this cake is a staple in Swedish households and cafes. Rooted in Scandinavian baking traditions, it celebrates simple ingredients—apples, butter, and cinnamon—brought together in a modest yet satisfying way. It’s particularly popular during apple season in the fall.

Ingredients Quantity:

  • 2–3 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) milk

Topping:

  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1–2 tablespoons sliced almonds (optional)

Ingredients Optional:

  • 1/4 teaspoon cardamom (for a traditional Nordic twist)
  • Zest of 1 lemon (for brightness)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (mixed into the topping)
  • Vanilla custard or whipped cream (for serving)

Instruction:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8 or 9-inch round or square cake pan.
  2. In a bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in vanilla.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix just until smooth.
  4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Arrange the sliced apples in overlapping rows or a spiral pattern over the batter.
  5. Mix the sugar and cinnamon for the topping and sprinkle over the apples. Add sliced almonds if using.
  6. Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the apples are golden.
  7. Let cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature with whipped cream, ice cream, or vanilla sauce.

Tips for Success:

  • Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice contrast with the sweet batter.
  • Don’t overmix the batter—mix just until combined to keep it tender.
  • Let the cake rest 10–15 minutes after baking to set before slicing.
  • If serving warm with sauce or cream, lightly dust with powdered sugar just before serving for a finished look.

Recommendation:
Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve with warm vaniljsås (Swedish vanilla custard), whipped cream, or vanilla ice cream.
  • Pairs well with black coffee or spiced tea.
  • Great for fika (Swedish coffee break) or holiday dessert tables.

Make-Ahead Tips:

  • Can be made 1 day ahead and stored at room temperature in an airtight container.
  • Reheats well in a low oven (300°F or 150°C) for 10 minutes.

Nutrition (per slice, based on 8 servings):

  • Calories: ~290 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 24g
  • Sodium: 120mg
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Would you like a gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan version of this classic?

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