This Swedish Apple Cake is a family favorite that’s guaranteed to disappear fast! It’s packed with tender, cinnamon-spiced apples, a buttery, moist cake base, and a crispy, sugary topping. This nostalgic recipe has been passed down through generations, and now it’s your turn to enjoy it. Whether it’s for a cozy family gathering or a special occasion, this cake will quickly become a beloved tradition in your home too.
Why This Cake is Unforgettable:
- Perfectly Spiced Apples: Soft, fragrant apples coated in cinnamon and sugar create a deliciously caramelized effect when baked.
- Buttery, Moist Crumb: The cake has a delicate crumb, almost like a cross between cake and apple pie.
- No Fancy Techniques: This recipe is simple and straightforward—just mix, layer, and bake!
- Smells Like Heaven: The aroma of this cake baking in the oven will have everyone coming into the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Apple Layer:
- 4 cups (about 4 medium) apples, peeled & thinly sliced (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith are excellent choices!)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (to prevent browning)
- ½ cup (100g) brown sugar
- 1½ tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
For the Cake Batter:
- 1½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup (120ml) milk
For the Crunchy Topping:
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar (for sprinkling)
- ½ tsp cinnamon
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Layer
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan (or a similar size pan) with butter or non-stick spray.
- Prepare the apples: Peel and thinly slice the apples. Toss them in a bowl with lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes) using an electric mixer or by hand with a whisk.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the cake dense.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
- Layer the apples: Spoon half of the cake batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it out evenly. Then, arrange the spiced apple slices over the batter in an even layer.
- Top with remaining batter: Carefully spread the remaining cake batter over the apples, covering them completely. Don’t worry if it’s a little messy—just spread it as evenly as you can.
Step 4: Add the Crunchy Topping
- Sprinkle the topping: In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the cake.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm: This cake is delightful when served slightly warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Perfect for any occasion: It’s ideal for family gatherings, brunches, or even as a comforting afternoon treat with a cup of coffee or tea.
Final Thoughts:
This Swedish Apple Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a piece of family tradition and a slice of nostalgic comfort. The combination of cinnamon-spiced apples, a moist cake crumb, and a sweet, crispy topping makes it impossible to resist. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying it on your own, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Have you ever tried Swedish Apple Cake before? Or maybe you have your own family favorite? Share your thoughts and let me know how it turned out for you!
