Swedish Apple Cake

Enjoy the cozy flavors of a classic Swedish Apple Cake a tender, buttery cake layered with spiced apples, baked golden, and perfect for fall or holiday gatherings. Simple, rustic, and absolutely delicious with coffee or whipped cream.

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s equal parts rustic, elegant, and heartwarming, Swedish Apple Cake (Äppelkaka) is a true gem. Unlike heavy American-style apple pies, this cake strikes a perfect balance: a moist sponge cake base layered with tender spiced apples, lightly sweetened, and baked to golden perfection.

It’s a traditional Scandinavian treat often served with vanilla custard (vaniljsås), whipped cream, or ice cream. The beauty of this cake lies in its simplicity—you don’t need special ingredients or complicated techniques. Just fresh apples, pantry staples, and a bit of love.

Whether you’re hosting guests, baking for the holidays, or simply enjoying a cozy weekend afternoon, this Swedish Apple Cake will make your kitchen smell like autumn and your heart feel at home.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ cup (60 ml) milk

For the Apple Layer:

2–3 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or any firm apple)
2 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground cardamom (optional, but very Swedish)

Optional Toppings:

2 tbsp sliced almonds
Powdered sugar for dusting

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges.
Toss them with sugar, cinnamon, and cardamom in a small bowl. Set aside to let the spices soak in.

Step 2: Make the Batter

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
Mix in the dry ingredients alternately with milk until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared cake pan.
Arrange apple slices on top in a decorative circular pattern, slightly pressing them into the batter.
Sprinkle sliced almonds on top (optional).

Step 4: Bake

Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Step 5: Serve

Dust with powdered sugar.
Serve warm or at room temperature with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or classic Swedish vanilla sauce.

Tips for Success

Choose firm apples: Avoid overly soft varieties. Firm apples hold their shape during baking.
Spices matter: Cinnamon is classic, but cardamom gives this cake a distinct Scandinavian touch.
Do not overmix the batter: Overmixing makes the cake dense instead of tender.
Decorative apples: Layer apples in a spiral for a bakery-style presentation.
Serve warm: This cake tastes best slightly warm, when the apples are tender and fragrant.

Frequently Asked Questions Swedish Apple Cake

What type of apples work best for Swedish Apple Cake?
A: Firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn work best. They hold their shape during baking and balance the sweetness of the cake.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes! Swedish Apple Cake can be made a day in advance. Store it covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days. Warm slightly before serving for best flavor.

Do I have to peel the apples?
A: Traditionally, apples are peeled for a smooth texture, but leaving the skin on adds extra fiber and a rustic look. It’s completely up to you.

What can I serve with this cake?
A: In Sweden, it’s often served with vanilla sauce (vaniljsås). Whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or caramel sauce are also delicious pairings.

Can I freeze Swedish Apple Cake?
A: Absolutely. Wrap cooled slices tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm before serving.

Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
A: Yes! You can cut the sugar by 25% without affecting the texture too much. The natural sweetness of the apples will still shine through.

How do I prevent soggy cake from the apples?
A: Pat the apple slices dry with paper towels before arranging them on the cake batter. This prevents excess juice from making the cake soggy.

Is this cake the same as American apple pie?
A: No. Swedish Apple Cake has a soft, tender sponge base with apples baked on top, while American apple pie has a pastry crust with a thick apple filling.

Variations

Nutty Apple Cake – Add walnuts or pecans to the batter for crunch.
Gluten-Free Version – Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Caramel Apple Twist – Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cake before serving.
Apple-Pear Cake – Use half apples, half pears for a fruitier variation.
Healthier Option – Replace half the sugar with honey or maple syrup for a lighter sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Traditionally served with vanilla custard (vaniljsås) in Sweden.
Pair with freshly whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a richer dessert.
Perfect alongside a hot cup of coffee or spiced tea.
Serve as part of a holiday dessert table for a rustic, European touch.

Summary

Swedish Apple Cake is a simple, rustic, and flavorful dessert that highlights the natural sweetness of apples with warm spices and a tender buttery base. Whether you enjoy it with coffee in the afternoon or as a special holiday dessert, this cake is easy to make yet incredibly satisfying. It’s a slice of Scandinavian comfort you’ll come back to again and again.

Swedish Apple Cake