Swedish Apple Cake is a simple and charming dessert that combines tender apples with a soft, cinnamon-spiced cake. The top usually gets a little crispy and caramelized from the sugar and butter, creating a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. It’s one of those cakes that feels like a warm hug from the inside.
I love making this cake when apples are in season because the fresh fruit really shines through. The recipe is straightforward and forgiving, so it’s perfect for anyone who enjoys baking without too much fuss. One of my favorite things about it is how easily it fills the kitchen with the smell of cinnamon and baked apples — it always makes me smile.
For serving, I like to add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side. That little extra touch makes the cake feel special without overpowering the lovely apple flavor. It’s a great choice for sharing with family or friends after a cozy meal, or even just for a comforting afternoon snack.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Tart apples like Granny Smith work best because they hold their shape and balance the cake’s sweetness. If you prefer a softer texture, try softer apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp. I like to peel and thinly slice them for even baking.
Butter: Softened unsalted butter is key for a creamy batter. You can swap with margarine or coconut oil for dairy-free options, but the flavor will differ slightly.
Milk: Milk adds moisture and helps make the cake tender. Any kind of milk works—whole, low-fat, or plant-based like almond or oat milk.
Flour and Leavening: All-purpose flour with baking powder gives the cake a nice rise. For gluten-free baking, use a gluten-free blend but keep baking powder the same.
Cinnamon: This is optional but adds warm flavor that pairs beautifully with the apples. Feel free to leave it out or add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a twist.
How Can I Arrange Apple Slices Neatly Without Them Sinking?
The apple slices on top create the cake’s lovely look, so it’s good to position them carefully. Here’s how I do it:
- After pouring the batter into the pan, gently smooth it out but don’t overwork it.
- Place the apple slices on top in a circular pattern, slightly overlapping like petals or in rows. This helps the cake look tidy and even.
- Press the slices lightly into the batter so they don’t just sit on top and fall off when baking.
- Avoid piling too many slices or making them too thick, which can cause uneven baking or sinking.
This gentle pressing keeps the apples in place, helping you get that beautiful, rustic look with a soft and moist cake underneath. If you want a bit more caramelization, sprinkle a little sugar or cinnamon sugar on top before baking.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 8-inch (20cm) round cake pan – I recommend this size for even baking and a nice presentation.
- Mixing bowls – for whisking the dry ingredients and mixing the batter, making prep easier.
- Electric mixer or whisk – to beat the butter and sugar until creamy, which helps create a light cake.
- Spatula – for spreading the batter evenly and arranging apple slices neatly on top.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts ensuring the right texture.
- Peeler and knife – to prepare your apples uniformly for even baking and attractive presentation.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap tart apples with sweeter varieties like Fuji or Gala for a less tangy cake.
- Add chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, into the batter for crunch and extra flavor.
- Mix in a little lemon zest or ginger for a fresh, zesty twist that complements the apples.
- Top with a streusel crumb or a drizzle of caramel sauce before baking for extra sweetness and texture.
Swedish Apple Cake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or any tart variety), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1 1/4 cups (150g) all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prepare to spend about 15 minutes prepping the ingredients and batter, plus 45-50 minutes baking time. Allow an additional 15 minutes for the cake to cool before dusting with powdered sugar and serving. In total, expect roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Your Oven and Pan Ready:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour an 8-inch (20cm) round cake pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon if you’re using it. Set this aside for now.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is smooth, light, and fluffy—this will take about 3 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently just until everything is combined—try not to overmix to keep your cake tender.
6. Spread Batter and Add Apples:
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Then arrange the apple slices on top of the batter in a pretty pattern, gently pressing them into the cake a bit so they stick as it bakes.
7. Bake the Cake:
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is nicely golden brown.
8. Cool and Finish:
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, sprinkle powdered sugar over the top for a pretty finish.
This simple and comforting Swedish Apple Cake is perfect on its own or served with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Enjoy your cozy treat!
Can I Use Frozen Apples in This Cake?
Yes, you can use frozen apples, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the batter. Pat them dry with paper towels before arranging on top.
Can I Substitute the Butter?
Definitely! You can use margarine or a plant-based butter alternative if you prefer dairy-free options. Just ensure it’s softened to cream well with the sugar.
How Should I Store Leftover Cake?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently if desired, or enjoy cold with cream.
Can I Add Spices or Nuts?
Yes! Adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom in the batter enhances the flavor. Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can be mixed into the batter or sprinkled on top for extra texture.
