Swedish Apple Cake

Name: Swedish Apple Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened; ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; ½ cup (120ml) milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well); 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Powdered sugar for dusting; Whipped cream or vanilla sauce for serving

by Sophia

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There’s something magical about the combination of warm apples, cinnamon, and buttery cake that brings instant comfort. If you’re a fan of classic apple desserts, then you’re in for a real treat with this Swedish Apple Cake, or Äppelkaka as they call it in Sweden. It’s a beautifully simple yet incredibly flavorful cake that perfectly balances sweet, spiced apples with a soft and buttery base.

This cake is one of those nostalgic bakes that reminds you of cozy afternoons, curling up with a warm drink while the scent of cinnamon fills your kitchen. It’s a staple in Sweden, often served during “fika”—the beloved Swedish coffee break where friends and family gather to enjoy a cup of coffee and a slice of cake.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making this delightful dessert, including helpful tips to ensure the perfect bake every time. So, let’s grab our aprons and get started!

The Key Ingredients for Swedish Apple Cake

The beauty of Äppelkaka lies in its simplicity. You don’t need any fancy ingredients—just a handful of pantry staples that, when combined, create something truly special.

For the Cake:

✔ Flour (1 ½ cups) – The base of the cake, giving it structure and softness.
✔ Baking powder (1 tsp) – Helps the cake rise beautifully.
✔ Salt (½ tsp) – Enhances the flavors.
✔ Unsalted butter (½ cup, softened) – The key to a rich and tender crumb.
✔ Granulated sugar (¾ cup) – Adds just the right amount of sweetness.
✔ Eggs (2 large) – Bind everything together and add richness.
✔ Milk (½ cup) – Keeps the cake moist and soft.
✔ Vanilla extract (1 tsp) – Adds warmth and depth of flavor.

For the Apple Topping:

✔ Apples (2 medium, thinly sliced) – Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal.
✔ Granulated sugar (2 tbsp) – Slightly sweetens the apple topping.
✔ Ground cinnamon (1 tsp) – The ultimate spice for apples.

For Garnish (Optional but Highly Recommended!):

✔ Powdered sugar – For a delicate dusting on top.
✔ Whipped cream or vanilla sauce – The traditional Swedish way to serve it.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Swedish Apple Cake

1️⃣ Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Pan

Before we get started, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter and dust it lightly with flour, or simply line it with parchment paper. This ensures the cake releases easily once baked.

2️⃣ Prepare the Apples

This step is where all the cozy flavors come together!

Peel, core, and thinly slice two apples.
In a small bowl, toss the apple slices with 2 tablespoons of sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon until they are evenly coated.

Set the apples aside while we prepare the batter. The sugar and cinnamon will draw out their natural juices, making them extra flavorful.

3️⃣ Make the Cake Batter

Now, let’s whip up that rich and buttery cake base!

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, giving the cake a tender texture.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk, and mix until smooth. Be careful not to overmix—just enough to combine everything evenly.

4️⃣ Assemble the Cake

Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
Arrange the cinnamon-sugar apple slices on top in a circular pattern, slightly overlapping them for a beautiful, rustic look.
Gently press the apples into the batter so they sink in slightly as the cake bakes.

Now that we’ve assembled our beautiful Swedish Apple Cake with its cinnamon-kissed apple topping, it’s time to bake it to golden perfection! This next step is where all those warm, cozy flavors meld together, filling your kitchen with the most irresistible aroma.

Let’s get baking!

5️⃣ Bake the Cake

Pop the cake into your preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and let it work its magic.

Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
If the cake starts browning too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.

💡 Pro Tip: Ovens can vary, so start checking around the 30-minute mark. If the cake is still a bit wobbly in the center, let it bake for an extra few minutes.

Once it’s done, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. This allows the cake to set and makes it easier to remove without breaking apart.

6️⃣ Garnish & Serve Like a Swede!

Now comes the fun part—adding the finishing touches to make this cake even more special!

Dust with powdered sugar: A light sprinkle on top adds a delicate sweetness and gives the cake a gorgeous, bakery-style look.

Serve warm: Swedish Apple Cake is best enjoyed while still slightly warm. The flavors are more pronounced, and the apples remain soft and juicy.
Pair with whipped cream or vanilla sauce: In Sweden, this cake is often served with gräddsås (a simple vanilla sauce) or a generous dollop of whipped cream. This creamy addition balances the cinnamon-spiced apples beautifully.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re feeling extra indulgent, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a modern twist!

Swedish Apple Cake Tips & Variations

✔ Best Apples to Use:
Granny Smith apples are perfect for a tart contrast to the sweet cake, while Honeycrisp adds a natural sweetness and crunch. Avoid overly soft apples like Red Delicious, as they tend to get mushy when baked.

✔ Make It Ahead:
This cake stores wonderfully! You can bake it a day ahead and reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back that just-baked warmth.

✔ Add a Crunchy Topping:
For a little extra texture, sprinkle a handful of slivered almonds or chopped walnuts over the apples before baking.

✔ Gluten-Free Option:
Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, and you’ll still get a light and fluffy cake.

✔ Extra Caramelization:
If you love caramel flavors, drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the apples before baking. It enhances their natural sweetness and creates a gorgeous golden topping.

FAQs & Final Thoughts on Swedish Apple Cake

Now that we’ve covered every step of making this delightful Swedish Apple Cake (Äppelkaka), it’s time to address some frequently asked questions! Whether you’re wondering about storage, substitutions, or how to make it even more special, I’ve got you covered.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1️⃣ Can I use different types of apples?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are the best choices for their tartness and texture, you can also try:
✔ Fuji – Adds a natural sweetness.
✔ Pink Lady – A good balance of sweet and tart.
✔ Braeburn – Holds up well when baked.
Avoid Red Delicious or Gala, as they tend to become too mushy in baking.

2️⃣ How should I store Swedish Apple Cake?

If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), here’s how to keep it fresh:
✔ At room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
✔ In the refrigerator: Cover with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container and store for up to 5 days.
✔ Freezing: This cake freezes beautifully! Wrap slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

3️⃣ Can I reheat the cake?

Yes! Warm cake is the best cake!
✔ Microwave: Heat individual slices for 10-15 seconds.
✔ Oven: Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes.
✔ Toaster oven: A great way to reheat while keeping the top slightly crisp.

4️⃣ Can I make this cake without eggs?

Yes! If you’re looking for an egg-free version, try one of these substitutes:
✔ 1 mashed banana (adds slight banana flavor).
✔ ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce (keeps it moist).
✔ 1 flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water, let sit for 5 min).

5️⃣ Can I add nuts to this cake?

Yes! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds make a fantastic addition for some extra crunch. You can sprinkle them on top of the apples before baking or mix a handful into the batter.

6️⃣ What is the best way to serve this cake?

For a true Swedish experience, serve warm with:
✔ Whipped cream – Light and airy, balancing the rich cake.
✔ Vanilla sauce – A Swedish favorite (you can use custard too!).
✔ Vanilla ice cream – Perfect for a warm-cold contrast.

Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love This Swedish Apple Cake

There’s a reason Äppelkaka has been a beloved dessert in Sweden for generations. It’s simple, cozy, and packed with warm, spiced apple flavors that make every bite feel like a hug. Whether you’re enjoying it during a fika break with coffee or serving it as a holiday dessert, this cake is sure to become a new favorite in your home.

✔ Easy to Make: No fancy ingredients, just simple pantry staples.
✔ Warm & Comforting: The perfect fall or winter dessert.
✔ Versatile: Pairs beautifully with whipped cream, ice cream, or vanilla sauce.
✔ Great for Any Occasion: Perfect for coffee breaks, holidays, or cozy nights in.

Swedish Apple Cake