Swedish Apple Cake, also known as Äppelkaka, is a beloved dessert in Swedish homes. This rustic cake is a perfect combination of tender apples, warm spices, and a soft, buttery cake base. It’s simple to make yet full of comforting flavors—ideal for a cozy family treat or for impressing guests at your next gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With minimal ingredients, it’s a straightforward recipe for even beginner bakers.
- Crispy Top, Soft Inside: The cake bakes to perfection, with a slightly crispy top and a soft, moist inside.
- Apple Goodness: The apples are the star of the show, infusing the cake with sweetness and depth.
Ingredients
For the cake:
- 3 medium apples (peeled, cored, and sliced)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup sugar (granulated)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup whole milk
For the topping:
- 1 tablespoon sugar (granulated, for sprinkling)
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (for sprinkling)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar using an electric mixer or a whisk until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 3: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that could make the cake dense.
Step 4: Layer the Apples
- Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or springform pan and lightly flour it.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
- Arrange the apple slices on top of the batter in a circular pattern, slightly overlapping them. You can also scatter the apple slices randomly for a more rustic look.
Step 5: Add Topping and Bake
- In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon for the topping.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the apples.
- Place the pan in the oven and bake for 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the cake is golden brown on top.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve the cake warm or at room temperature. You can dust it with powdered sugar or serve it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Tips for Success
- Apple Variety: For the best flavor, choose apples that are both sweet and tart. Varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work wonderfully.
- Texture: This cake has a light, soft texture with a slight crispiness on the top, thanks to the cinnamon-sugar topping.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting to ensure a smooth batter and even mixing.
Serving Suggestions
- Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: This cake is delicious with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm slice of Swedish Apple Cake pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a perfect dessert for afternoon breaks or gatherings.
- Autumn-Inspired: Serve this cake in the fall when apples are in season for a cozy, seasonal treat.
FAQ
1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! The Swedish Apple Cake keeps well for up to 2 days at room temperature, or you can store it in the fridge for up to a week. Warm it up in the oven before serving for that just-baked feel.
2. Can I freeze Swedish Apple Cake?
Absolutely. If you have leftovers, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature or heat it in the oven.
3. Can I add nuts or raisins?
Yes! Feel free to add chopped walnuts or raisins to the batter or sprinkle them on top along with the apples. They’ll add a nice texture and extra flavor.
Swedish Apple Cake is a simple yet delightful dessert that brings the flavors of autumn straight to your table. With its tender, moist interior and beautifully caramelized apples on top, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or enjoying a cozy slice with tea, this cake captures the essence of home-baked goodness. Try it today, and indulge in a little slice of Sweden!
