This Swedish Apple Cake is a warm, comforting dessert made with tart apples, cinnamon, and a buttery cake batter—perfect with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream!

Introduction:

Swedish Apple Cake, or “Äppelkaka”, is a beloved traditional dessert from Sweden, often enjoyed during the cooler months when apples are abundant. This cake is simple yet elegant, with soft, tart apples baked into a tender, buttery cake batter. What makes it special is the way the apples caramelize as they bake, creating a delightful contrast between the sweet, juicy fruit and the warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Served with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, this cake is a true comfort food, bringing warmth and coziness to any occasion. It’s perfect for afternoon tea, a special dessert, or even breakfast with coffee. Easy to make with basic pantry ingredients, this cake will quickly become a favorite for anyone who loves the combination of apples and cinnamon.

Ingredients:

• 3-4 medium tart apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup milk
• Powdered sugar, for dusting
• Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (optional, for serving)

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Apples: Peel and core the apples, then slice them into thin wedges. Set aside.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using).
4. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, using a hand mixer or stand mixer, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
7. Assemble the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Arrange the apple slices in a circular pattern on top of the batter, slightly pressing them in.
8. Bake: Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
9. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving. Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

How to Prepare:

• Apples: Choose tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced sweetness. Thinly slice the apples so they bake evenly into the cake.
• Batter: Don’t overmix the batter, as this can lead to a denser cake. Mixing until just combined will give you a light, tender crumb.
• Serving: For a special touch, serve the cake warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which complements the sweet-tart apples perfectly.

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Bake Time: 40-50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Servings:

• Yields: 8 servings

FAQs:

1. Can I use other types of apples for this cake?

• Yes! While tart apples like Granny Smith are preferred for balance, sweeter apples like Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, or Braeburn can also be used for a different flavor.

2. How should I store Swedish Apple Cake?

• You can store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate it for up to 4 days. Warm it slightly before serving for the best flavor.

3. Can I freeze Swedish Apple Cake?

• Yes, you can freeze the cake! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge and warm it before serving.

4. Can I add more spices to the cake?

• Absolutely! You can add a pinch of ground cloves or cardamom for extra warmth and flavor.

5. Can I make this cake gluten-free?

• Yes, you can substitute a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour for the all-purpose flour in the recipe. The cake may have a slightly different texture, but it will still be delicious.

Conclusion:

This Swedish Apple Cake is a comforting, simple dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The tender, buttery cake combined with the caramelized apples and warm spices creates a delightful treat that will transport you to the cozy kitchens of Sweden. Whether you enjoy it as a warm dessert after dinner or as a sweet accompaniment to your afternoon coffee, this cake is sure to become a favorite. The balance of tart apples and sweet, cinnamon-infused cake makes it both a light and satisfying dessert, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Dust it with powdered sugar or pair it with a dollop of whipped cream, and you have a delightful, timeless treat.