Swedish Apple Cake Recipe: A Traditional Delight

Craving a Cozy, Comforting Dessert?

Did you know that traditional Scandinavian baking is often characterized by its simplicity, focus on natural ingredients, and deeply comforting flavors? If you’re looking for a dessert that embodies this philosophy, then you’ve landed in the right place. This Swedish Apple Cake, known affectionately as Äppelkaka, is a testament to that heritage. Imagine a tender, moist cake, infused with the warm, aromatic embrace of cinnamon and studded with sweet, tender apple slices. It’s the kind of dessert that instantly transports you to a cozy hygge moment, perfect for sharing with loved ones or simply savoring on your own with a steaming cup of coffee or tea. While many apple cakes can be dense or overly complicated, the Swedish version is celebrated for its delicate crumb and ease of preparation. It’s less about a heavy pastry and more about a light, buttery cake that perfectly complements the fruit. Ready to bake a slice of Scandinavian tradition?

A Wholesome Array of Ingredients

The beauty of this Swedish Apple Cake lies in its straightforward ingredient list, featuring pantry staples and the star of the show: fresh apples. Each component plays a crucial role in creating that signature balance of sweet, tart, and spice.

For the Cake:

• 200g (1 ¾ cups) All-Purpose Flour: The foundational structure of our cake. Ensure it’s sifted for a lighter texture.
  • Substitution: You can use cake flour for an even more tender crumb, or a gluten-free all-purpose blend if needed.
• 150g (¾ cup) Granulated Sugar: For sweetness. Adjust to your preference based on the apples’ tartness.
  • Substitution: Coconut sugar or brown sugar can add a slightly richer, caramel note.
• 100g (½ cup or 1 stick) Unsalted Butter, softened: Brings richness and moisture. At room temperature, it should yield slightly to the touch.
  • Substitution: Margarine or a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil can be used, though butter offers superior flavor.
• 2 Large Eggs: Binders that contribute to a cake’s structure and richness.
  • Substitution: Two flax eggs (2 tbsp flaxseed meal + 6 tbsp water, rested) for a vegan option.
• 120ml (½ cup) Milk: Adds moisture and helps create a tender crumb. Whole milk is preferred for richness.
  • Substitution: Almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk work well.
• 2 tsp Baking Powder: Our leavening agent, crucial for a light and airy cake.
  • Note: Ensure it’s fresh for optimal lift.
• ½ tsp Vanilla Extract: Enhances all the other flavors and adds a comforting aroma.
  • Substitution: A pinch of almond extract can complement the apple flavor beautifully.
• Pinch of Salt: Balances sweetness and deepens flavor.

For the Apple Filling:

• 3-4 Medium Apples: A mix of sweet and tart varieties works best for depth of flavor. Think Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, or Braeburn.
  • Tip: Peel, core, and slice them about ¼ inch thick for even cooking.
• 1 tbsp Lemon Juice: Brightens the apple flavor and prevents browning.
• 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon: The quintessential spice for apple desserts.
  • Substitution: A mix of cinnamon and a tiny pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for complexity.
• 2 tbsp Granulated Sugar: To sweeten the apples slightly.
• 1 tbsp All-Purpose Flour (optional, for thickening): If your apples are very juicy, this helps prevent a soggy bottom.

For Topping (Optional but Recommended):

• Demerara Sugar or Pearl Sugar: For a delightful crunch.
• Extra Cinnamon: For dusting.

Timing Your Bake

Compared to standard apple cakes which can often take over an hour for preparation and baking, this Swedish Äppelkaka is relatively quick, making it an ideal weeknight treat or a spontaneous dessert option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, let’s get our oven ready! Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Then, generously grease and flour a 20-23cm (8-9 inch) round cake pan or springform pan. You can also line the bottom with parchment paper for easier removal – a little extra insurance never hurts!

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the sifted flour, baking powder, and salt. Now, alternate adding the dry ingredients and the milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined – overmixing can lead to a tough cake, and we want that delicate crumb!

Step 3: Prepare the Apples

While the batter is ready, let’s get our apples prepped. In a medium bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, cinnamon, and the 2 tablespoons of sugar. If you’re using the optional flour to help with juiciness, gently toss it in now to coat the apple slices evenly.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Pour about half of the cake batter into your prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly. Arrange the cinnamon-spiced apple slices over the batter. Don’t worry if they overlap slightly. Pour the remaining batter over the apples, gently spreading it to cover them as much as possible. Don’t aim for perfection here; rustic charm is part of its appeal!

For that extra touch, sprinkle the top with a little Demerara sugar or pearl sugar and a pinch of extra cinnamon, if desired. This will give it a lovely crunchy topping.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the cake pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is beautifully golden brown.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. However, traditional Swedish apple cake is often best served warm. So, you can let it cool just enough to handle, or even reheat slices gently before serving.

Nutritional Insights

While exact nutritional values can vary based on ingredient brands and precise measurements, a typical slice of this Swedish Apple Cake (approximately 1/8th of the cake) contains:

• Calories: Around 300-350 kcal
• Macronutrients: Rich in carbohydrates (from sugar and flour), moderate in fat (from butter), and contains a small amount of protein.
• Fiber: Contains some dietary fiber from the apples.

Please note: This is an estimation. For precise nutritional data, it’s recommended to use a nutritional calculator with your specific ingredients.

Healthier Swaps Without Sacrificing Flavor

Looking to lighten up this traditional delight? You can make some smart substitutions that keep the delicious apple-cinnamon flavor profile intact:

• Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or oat flour for added fiber and nutrients.
• Sugar: Reduce the overall sugar content by 25-30%, relying more on the natural sweetness of the apples. You can also use a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey, adjusting liquid accordingly.
• Butter: Replace some or all of the butter with unsweetened applesauce or a good quality neutral oil (like avocado or light olive oil) for a lower-fat version. The texture might be slightly gummier with applesauce, so a mix is often best.
• Dairy-Free/Vegan: Use plant-based milk and butter alternatives, and flax eggs as mentioned in the ingredients section.

Serving Suggestions

This Swedish Apple Cake truly shines when served warm. Here are a few ways to elevate it:

• Classic Combo: A generous dollop of freshly whipped cream is a timeless companion.
• Saucy Delight: Warm vanilla sauce (vaniljsås) or custard is a traditional and incredibly decadent pairing.
• Ice Cream Dream: A scoop of good quality vanilla bean ice cream melting into a warm slice is pure bliss.
• Simple Elegance: Dust with a little powdered sugar or enjoy it plain with your favorite hot beverage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While this recipe is forgiving, a few common pitfalls can prevent you from achieving the perfect Äppelkaka:

• Overmixing the Batter: This develops gluten, leading to a tough, dense cake. Mix until just combined.
• Using Under-Ripe or Mushy Apples: Choose firm apples that hold their shape when baked. Overripe apples can release too much liquid and become mealy.
• Not Preheating the Oven: A properly preheated oven ensures even baking from the start.
• Oven Temperature Fluctuations: Keep your oven door closed as much as possible during baking.
• Cutting Too Soon: Allowing the cake to cool slightly in the pan helps it set, making it easier to slice without falling apart.

Storing Your Swedish Apple Cake

To keep your Äppelkaka fresh and delicious:

• At Room Temperature: Once completely cooled, store the cake in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It should stay fresh for 2-3 days.
• In the Refrigerator: For longer storage (up to 5 days), keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature or gently warm slices before serving for the best texture and flavor.
• Freezing: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature.

A Slice of Scandinavian Comfort

There you have it – a genuine taste of Scandinavian tradition with this delightful Swedish Apple Cake. It’s a recipe that proves you don’t need complex techniques or exotic ingredients to create a truly memorable dessert. Its wonderfully tender crumb, aromatic spice, and tender apple slices make each bite a comforting embrace. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a sweet moment of peace, this Äppelkaka is sure to become a beloved recipe in your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Swedish Apple Cake

• Author: Chef Mia

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Description

ThisSwedish Apple Cake (Äppelkaka)is a classic Scandinavian dessert featuring a soft, buttery cake with layers of cinnamon-spiced apples. It’s perfect with a cup of coffee or tea and best served warm with whipped cream or vanilla sauce.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 ½ cups(190g) all-purpose flour1 teaspoonbaking powder½ teaspoonsalt½ cup(115g) unsalted butter, softened¾ cup(150g) granulated sugar2large eggs½ cup(120ml) milk1 teaspoonvanilla extract
• 1 teaspoonbaking powder½ teaspoonsalt½ cup(115g) unsalted butter, softened¾ cup(150g) granulated sugar2large eggs½ cup(120ml) milk1 teaspoonvanilla extract
• ½ teaspoonsalt½ cup(115g) unsalted butter, softened¾ cup(150g) granulated sugar2large eggs½ cup(120ml) milk1 teaspoonvanilla extract
• ½ cup(115g) unsalted butter, softened¾ cup(150g) granulated sugar2large eggs½ cup(120ml) milk1 teaspoonvanilla extract
• ¾ cup(150g) granulated sugar2large eggs½ cup(120ml) milk1 teaspoonvanilla extract
• 2large eggs½ cup(120ml) milk1 teaspoonvanilla extract
• ½ cup(120ml) milk1 teaspoonvanilla extract
• 1 teaspoonvanilla extract
• 2medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)2 tablespoonsgranulated sugar1 teaspoonground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoonsgranulated sugar1 teaspoonground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoonground cinnamon
• Powdered sugar for dustingWhipped cream or vanilla sauce for serving
• Whipped cream or vanilla sauce for serving

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Instructions

1. 1️⃣Preheat the Oven:Preheat your oven to350°F (175°C).Grease and flour a9-inch (23cm) round cake panor line it with parchment paper.2️⃣Prepare the Apples:In a small bowl, toss theapple sliceswithsugar and cinnamon.Set aside while preparing the cake batter.3️⃣Make the Cake Batter:In a medium bowl, whisk togetherflour, baking powder, and salt.In a separate large bowl, beat thebutter and sugartogether until light and fluffy.Add theeggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.Mix in thevanilla extract.Gradually add thedry ingredients, alternating withmilk, mixing until smooth.4️⃣Assemble the Cake:Pour the batter into theprepared cake panand spread it evenly.Arrange theapple sliceson top in a circular pattern, slightly overlapping.Lightly press the apples into the batter.5️⃣Bake the Cake:Bake for35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.Let the cake cool for10-15 minutesbefore removing it from the pan.6️⃣Garnish & Serve:Dust withpowdered sugarbefore serving.Serve warm withwhipped cream or vanilla saucefor an authentic Swedish touch!
2. Preheat your oven to350°F (175°C).
3. Grease and flour a9-inch (23cm) round cake panor line it with parchment paper.2️⃣Prepare the Apples:In a small bowl, toss theapple sliceswithsugar and cinnamon.Set aside while preparing the cake batter.3️⃣Make the Cake Batter:In a medium bowl, whisk togetherflour, baking powder, and salt.In a separate large bowl, beat thebutter and sugartogether until light and fluffy.Add theeggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.Mix in thevanilla extract.Gradually add thedry ingredients, alternating withmilk, mixing until smooth.4️⃣Assemble the Cake:Pour the batter into theprepared cake panand spread it evenly.Arrange theapple sliceson top in a circular pattern, slightly overlapping.Lightly press the apples into the batter.5️⃣Bake the Cake:Bake for35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.Let the cake cool for10-15 minutesbefore removing it from the pan.6️⃣Garnish & Serve:Dust withpowdered sugarbefore serving.Serve warm withwhipped cream or vanilla saucefor an authentic Swedish touch!
4. 2️⃣Prepare the Apples:In a small bowl, toss theapple sliceswithsugar and cinnamon.Set aside while preparing the cake batter.3️⃣Make the Cake Batter:In a medium bowl, whisk togetherflour, baking powder, and salt.In a separate large bowl, beat thebutter and sugartogether until light and fluffy.Add theeggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.Mix in thevanilla extract.Gradually add thedry ingredients, alternating withmilk, mixing until smooth.4️⃣Assemble the Cake:Pour the batter into theprepared cake panand spread it evenly.Arrange theapple sliceson top in a circular pattern, slightly overlapping.Lightly press the apples into the batter.5️⃣Bake the Cake:Bake for35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.Let the cake cool for10-15 minutesbefore removing it from the pan.6️⃣Garnish & Serve:Dust withpowdered sugarbefore serving.Serve warm withwhipped cream or vanilla saucefor an authentic Swedish touch!
5. In a small bowl, toss theapple sliceswithsugar and cinnamon.
6. Set aside while preparing the cake batter.3️⃣Make the Cake Batter:In a medium bowl, whisk togetherflour, baking powder, and salt.In a separate large bowl, beat thebutter and sugartogether until light and fluffy.Add theeggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.Mix in thevanilla extract.Gradually add thedry ingredients, alternating withmilk, mixing until smooth.4️⃣Assemble the Cake:Pour the batter into theprepared cake panand spread it evenly.Arrange theapple sliceson top in a circular pattern, slightly overlapping.Lightly press the apples into the batter.5️⃣Bake the Cake:Bake for35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.Let the cake cool for10-15 minutesbefore removing it from the pan.6️⃣Garnish & Serve:Dust withpowdered sugarbefore serving.Serve warm withwhipped cream or vanilla saucefor an authentic Swedish touch!
7. 3️⃣Make the Cake Batter:In a medium bowl, whisk togetherflour, baking powder, and salt.In a separate large bowl, beat thebutter and sugartogether until light and fluffy.Add theeggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.Mix in thevanilla extract.Gradually add thedry ingredients, alternating withmilk, mixing until smooth.4️⃣Assemble the Cake:Pour the batter into theprepared cake panand spread it evenly.Arrange theapple sliceson top in a circular pattern, slightly overlapping.Lightly press the apples into the batter.5️⃣Bake the Cake:Bake for35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.Let the cake cool for10-15 minutesbefore removing it from the pan.6️⃣Garnish & Serve:Dust withpowdered sugarbefore serving.Serve warm withwhipped cream or vanilla saucefor an authentic Swedish touch!
8. In a medium bowl, whisk togetherflour, baking powder, and salt.
9. In a separate large bowl, beat thebutter and sugartogether until light and fluffy.Add theeggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.Mix in thevanilla extract.Gradually add thedry ingredients, alternating withmilk, mixing until smooth.4️⃣Assemble the Cake:Pour the batter into theprepared cake panand spread it evenly.Arrange theapple sliceson top in a circular pattern, slightly overlapping.Lightly press the apples into the batter.5️⃣Bake the Cake:Bake for35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.Let the cake cool for10-15 minutesbefore removing it from the pan.6️⃣Garnish & Serve:Dust withpowdered sugarbefore serving.Serve warm withwhipped cream or vanilla saucefor an authentic Swedish touch!
10. Add theeggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.Mix in thevanilla extract.Gradually add thedry ingredients, alternating withmilk, mixing until smooth.4️⃣Assemble the Cake:Pour the batter into theprepared cake panand spread it evenly.Arrange theapple sliceson top in a circular pattern, slightly overlapping.Lightly press the apples into the batter.5️⃣Bake the Cake:Bake for35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.Let the cake cool for10-15 minutesbefore removing it from the pan.6️⃣Garnish & Serve:Dust withpowdered sugarbefore serving.Serve warm withwhipped cream or vanilla saucefor an authentic Swedish touch!
11. Mix in thevanilla extract.
12. Gradually add thedry ingredients, alternating withmilk, mixing until smooth.4️⃣Assemble the Cake:Pour the batter into theprepared cake panand spread it evenly.Arrange theapple sliceson top in a circular pattern, slightly overlapping.Lightly press the apples into the batter.5️⃣Bake the Cake:Bake for35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.Let the cake cool for10-15 minutesbefore removing it from the pan.6️⃣Garnish & Serve:Dust withpowdered sugarbefore serving.Serve warm withwhipped cream or vanilla saucefor an authentic Swedish touch!
13. 4️⃣Assemble the Cake:Pour the batter into theprepared cake panand spread it evenly.Arrange theapple sliceson top in a circular pattern, slightly overlapping.Lightly press the apples into the batter.5️⃣Bake the Cake:Bake for35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.Let the cake cool for10-15 minutesbefore removing it from the pan.6️⃣Garnish & Serve:Dust withpowdered sugarbefore serving.Serve warm withwhipped cream or vanilla saucefor an authentic Swedish touch!
14. Pour the batter into theprepared cake panand spread it evenly.
15. Arrange theapple sliceson top in a circular pattern, slightly overlapping.Lightly press the apples into the batter.5️⃣Bake the Cake:Bake for35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.Let the cake cool for10-15 minutesbefore removing it from the pan.6️⃣Garnish & Serve:Dust withpowdered sugarbefore serving.Serve warm withwhipped cream or vanilla saucefor an authentic Swedish touch!
16. Lightly press the apples into the batter.5️⃣Bake the Cake:Bake for35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.Let the cake cool for10-15 minutesbefore removing it from the pan.6️⃣Garnish & Serve:Dust withpowdered sugarbefore serving.Serve warm withwhipped cream or vanilla saucefor an authentic Swedish touch!
17. 5️⃣Bake the Cake:
18. Bake for35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.Let the cake cool for10-15 minutesbefore removing it from the pan.6️⃣Garnish & Serve:Dust withpowdered sugarbefore serving.Serve warm withwhipped cream or vanilla saucefor an authentic Swedish touch!
19. Let the cake cool for10-15 minutesbefore removing it from the pan.6️⃣Garnish & Serve:Dust withpowdered sugarbefore serving.Serve warm withwhipped cream or vanilla saucefor an authentic Swedish touch!
20. 6️⃣Garnish & Serve:
21. Dust withpowdered sugarbefore serving.Serve warm withwhipped cream or vanilla saucefor an authentic Swedish touch!
22. Serve warm withwhipped cream or vanilla saucefor an authentic Swedish touch!

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Notes

✅Apple Variety:Tart apples like Granny Smith balance the sweetness, but Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Pink Lady also work well.✅Make it Crunchy:Add chopped almonds or walnuts on top before baking for extra texture.✅Storage:Store at room temperature for up to2 days, or refrigerate for up to5 days.