Swedish apple cake, or Äppelkaka, is a classic Scandinavian dessert that brings together the warm flavors of cinnamon, cardamom, and tender apples in a simple yet elegant cake. Unlike American apple pies, which rely on a flaky crust, this cake has a moist, spongy texture that pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
This cake is a true comfort dessert, perfect for any time of year but especially cozy during fall and winter. The best part? It’s easy to make, requires basic pantry staples, and doesn’t need any elaborate frosting or decorations to shine. Whether you’re making it for a casual family gathering or a special occasion, this Swedish apple cake is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Simple & Rustic – No need for frosting or fancy techniques—just wholesome ingredients.
✔ Warm & Comforting – The blend of cinnamon and cardamom creates a cozy, inviting aroma.
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in under an hour with minimal effort.
✔ Versatile – Enjoy it plain, with coffee, or topped with ice cream.
✔ Kid-Friendly – Soft, sweet, and filled with apples, making it a hit with all ages.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cake (Serves 8–10)
- 3 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground cardamom (optional but adds authentic Swedish flair)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup plain yogurt or sour cream
For the Topping
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9-inch round or square baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
- Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples.
- Set aside while you prepare the batter.
Step 3: Make the Batter
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Cinnamon
- Cardamom
- In a separate bowl, whisk together:
- Melted butter
- Sugar
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Yogurt (or sour cream)
-
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined.
(The batter will be thick but spreadable.)
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Arrange half of the apple slices in a single layer over the batter.
- Dollop the remaining batter on top and gently spread it to cover the apples.
- Arrange the remaining apple slices in a decorative pattern on top. (A circular or layered design works beautifully!)
Step 5: Add the Topping
- In a small bowl, mix together sugar and cinnamon.
- Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the apples.
Step 6: Bake
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until:
- The cake is golden brown
- The apples are tender
- A toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean
- Remove from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
- Enjoy as is, or pair it with:
- Whipped cream
- Vanilla ice cream
- A drizzle of caramel sauce
Why This Recipe Works
✨ Apples Add Moisture – Fresh apple slices keep the cake tender and flavorful.
✨ Spices Enhance Flavor – Cinnamon and cardamom create a warm, inviting aroma.
✨ Rustic Simplicity – The beauty of this cake is in its simplicity—no fancy toppings needed!
Variations to Try
✅ Add Nuts – Sprinkle chopped walnuts or almonds on top for extra crunch.
✅ Swap Spices – Use nutmeg or allspice instead of cardamom for a different flavor.
✅ Gluten-Free Option – Substitute gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour.
✅ Dairy-Free Version – Use plant-based butter and yogurt for a dairy-free alternative.
✅ Berry Twist – Add a handful of fresh or frozen berries (like raspberries) for a fruity variation.
Tips for Success
✔ Choose the Right Apples – Use apples that hold their shape when baked, like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn.
✔ Don’t Overmix – Stir the batter just until combined to avoid a dense cake.
✔ Storage – Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
✔ Reheating – Warm slices in the microwave or oven for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
Serving Suggestions
🎀 Romantic Touch – Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with honey for an elegant finish.
🥞 Brunch Staple – Serve with scrambled eggs, bacon, or fresh fruit for a cozy breakfast.
☕ Party Platter – Pair with coffee, tea, or mulled wine for a delightful gathering treat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors develop. Store it at room temperature or in the fridge.
2. Can I use different types of apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn work best, you can experiment with Fuji, Gala, or Pink Lady apples.
3. What if I don’t have cardamom?
No worries! Just increase the cinnamon to 1 ½ teaspoons or add a pinch of nutmeg for warmth.
4. Can I freeze Swedish apple cake?
Yes! Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
5. Can I use a different baking pan?
Yes, you can use a 9-inch round cake pan, square pan, or even a loaf pan. Just adjust the baking time slightly if needed.
Final Thoughts
This Swedish Apple Cake is a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients, offering a dessert that feels both comforting and refined. With its tender crumb, spiced aroma, and juicy apple layers, it’s a must-try recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Whether you’re making it for a special occasion, a cozy fall treat, or just because, this cake is pure joy in every bite. Try it today and enjoy a slice of Swedish baking tradition!