Swedish Apple Cake – A Family Favorite That Disappears Fast
Introduction
This Swedish Apple Cake is a tender, buttery dessert layered with sweet apple slices and a hint of cinnamon. It’s the kind of cake that feels rustic yet elegant, perfect for family gatherings, cozy afternoons, or holiday tables. With its golden crust and soft apple topping, it’s no wonder this cake is always the first to disappear.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple ingredients: Pantry staples and fresh apples.
Moist & tender: Butter and eggs create a rich, soft crumb.
Rustic charm: Apple slices arranged on top give a beautiful finish.
Family tradition: A recipe that feels warm and nostalgic.
Ingredients
For the Cake
½ cup butter, room temperature
1⅔ cups sugar
2 eggs
1½ tsp vanilla extract
1½ cups all‑purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
3–4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
For the Topping (Optional)
2 tbsp sugar
½ tsp cinnamon
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9‑inch springform or round cake pan.
Step 2: Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Eggs & Vanilla
Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to butter mixture until just combined.
Step 5: Assemble
Pour batter into prepared pan. Arrange apple slices neatly over the top. Sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar if desired.
Step 6: Bake
Bake 45–50 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool & Serve
Allow cake to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Tips & Tricks
Apple choice: Tart apples like Granny Smith balance the sweetness.
Extra flavor: Add a pinch of cardamom for a Scandinavian touch.
Serving idea: Pair with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Storage: Keep covered at room temp for 2–3 days, or refrigerate up to 5 days.
Variations
Nutty twist: Sprinkle chopped almonds or walnuts on top.
Caramel drizzle: Add warm caramel sauce before serving.
Holiday version: Mix cranberries with apples for festive flavor.
Mini cakes: Bake in muffin tins for individual servings.
Serving Ideas
Serve warm with coffee for a cozy fika.
Add a dollop of whipped cream for elegance.
Slice thinly for afternoon tea gatherings.
Present as a rustic dessert centerpiece at family dinners.
FAQs
Q: Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but the cake will be denser.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely—bake the day before and store covered.
Q: Can I freeze it?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 45–50 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour
Yield: 1 cake (serves 8–10)
Final Thoughts
This Swedish Apple Cake is a tender, fruit‑topped dessert that embodies comfort and tradition. With its buttery crumb and sweet apple finish, it’s a recipe that brings people together—and disappears quickly from the table.