Best Swedish Apple Cake – Easy Homemade Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about the scent of apples and cinnamon wafting through the kitchen. It reminds me of crisp autumn afternoons, curled up with a book and a cup of tea, or the cozy gatherings at my grandmother’s house where dessert was always a given. That’s why I adore this Swedish Apple Cake—simple, rustic, and brimming with warmth. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a hug in dessert form, perfect for sharing (or savoring all to yourself—no judgment here!).

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the baking, let’s gather our ingredients. This cake is wonderfully straightforward, but a few key elements make it shine:

• 4 medium apples – I love using Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for a balance of sweetness and tartness. Peeled and thinly sliced, they melt into the cake beautifully.
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – The backbone of our cake, providing just the right amount of structure.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetness to complement the apples, but not so much that it overpowers them.
• 1 tsp baking powder – A little lift to keep the cake tender.
• ½ tsp salt – A pinch to balance the flavors.
• 1 tsp cinnamon – Because apples and cinnamon are a match made in heaven.
• 2 large eggs – Room temperature, please! They’ll blend more smoothly into the batter.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted – For richness and that irresistible golden crumb.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – A whisper of warmth to tie everything together.

How to Make Swedish Apple Cake

Now, let’s bring this cake to life. Don’t worry—it’s as easy as pie (or, well, cake!).

1. Prep the apples: Peel and thinly slice your apples. Toss them with a sprinkle of cinnamon if you’re feeling extra cozy. Set aside while you prepare the batter.
2. Whisk the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This ensures everything is evenly distributed, so no bite is left underseasoned.
3. Mix the wet ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs lightly, then stir in the melted butter and vanilla. Pour this into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined—overmixing can make the cake tough.
4. Layer the batter and apples: Pour half the batter into a greased 9-inch cake pan. Arrange half the apple slices over the batter, then repeat with the remaining batter and apples. The top layer of apples will caramelize slightly as it bakes, creating a lovely texture.
5. Bake to perfection: Pop the cake into a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell absolutely divine!

Tip: If the top starts browning too quickly, tent it loosely with foil to prevent over-browning while the center finishes baking.

Pro Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

Every baker has their own twist on Swedish Apple Cake, and part of the joy is making it your own! Here are some ways to customize this cozy dessert:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cardamom or nutmeg to the batter for extra warmth.
• Nutty crunch: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for texture.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend.
• Dairy-free: Use plant-based butter and milk for a lactose-free version.
• Apple varieties: Try mixing tart Granny Smith with sweet Honeycrisp for balanced flavor.

What to Serve With Swedish Apple Cake

This humble cake shines brightest when paired with simple accompaniments:

• A dollop of freshly whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
• A drizzle of warm caramel sauce
• A dusting of powdered sugar for a snowy finish
• A cup of strong coffee or spiced chai tea

Storage and Reheating Tips

To keep your Swedish Apple Cake tasting fresh:

• Store at room temperature under a cake dome for up to 2 days
• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days
• Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic for up to 3 months
• Reheat gently in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes to revive that just-baked texture

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! The flavors actually deepen after a day. Just warm slightly before serving.

Why is my cake dense instead of light?

This usually means the batter was overmixed. Gently fold ingredients until just combined.

Can I use other fruits besides apples?

Yes! Pears work beautifully, or try a mix of berries in summer months.

Do I need special baking pans?

Not at all. A standard 9-inch springform or cake pan works perfectly.

A Cozy Final Thought

There’s something magical about how the simplest ingredients—tart apples, warm spices, and a tender crumb—can create such comfort. Whether you’re serving this cake at a family gathering or enjoying a quiet slice with your afternoon tea, may it bring you the same joy that Swedish kitchens have known for generations. Happy baking!