Easy Swedish Apple Cake Recipe Ready in 30 Minutes

Did You Know Sweden Eats More Apples Per Capita Than Anywhere in Europe?

It’s true! While we often associate apples with classic American pies or British crumbles, Sweden quietly holds the title for the highest apple consumption in Europe. This love affair with crisp, juicy apples shines brightest in their beloved Swedish Apple Cake—a humble yet magical dessert that transforms simple ingredients into pure comfort.

I still remember my first bite of this cake during a chilly autumn in Stockholm. The bakery window was fogged up from the warmth inside, and the scent of cinnamon and caramelized apples wrapped around me like a hug. Unlike dense American cakes or fussy French pastries, this was something different—tender, moist, and bursting with fruit in every forkful. It felt like eating sunshine on a gray day.

What makes this recipe special? Swedish Apple Cake (or Äppelkaka) walks the perfect line between cake and pudding. The apples melt into the batter as it bakes, creating pockets of jammy sweetness, while the top crisps up like a buttery streusel. No frosting needed—just a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream. It’s the kind of dessert that feels fancy but requires barely any effort, which explains why Swedish home cooks have relied on it for generations.

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about the secret weapon: the right apple. Swedes typically use tart-sweet varieties like Ingrid Marie or Signe Tillisch, but don’t worry—I’ll share accessible alternatives that work beautifully. This cake celebrates imperfection; uneven slices and rustic edges only add to its charm. So tie on your apron, and let’s bake a taste of Scandinavian coziness…

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Swedish Apple Cake Recipe

There’s something magical about the way Swedish desserts embrace simplicity while delivering the most comforting flavors. This Swedish Apple Cake is no exception—tender, buttery cake cradling juicy apples with just the right hint of spice. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you want to curl up with a cup of tea and savor every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 large apples – I love using Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for a balance of sweetness and tartness. Peeled, cored, and thinly sliced.
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Spoon and level it for the perfect measure—no dense cakes here!
• 1 tsp baking powder – Our little rising helper to keep the cake light.
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon – A warm hug for the apples.
• ¼ tsp ground cardamom – The secret Swedish touch—subtle, floral, and utterly delightful.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Room temperature is key! It should yield slightly when pressed.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar – Just enough sweetness to let the apples shine.
• 2 large eggs – Crack them into a separate bowl first—no shells in our batter!
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – Pure vanilla, if you have it. The flavor is worth it.
• ¼ cup whole milk – Adds moisture without weighing the cake down.
• 1 tbsp turbinado sugar (optional) – For that irresistible crunchy top.

Let’s Bake Together

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously butter a 9-inch springform pan. Trust me, the butter here is non-negotiable—it gives the edges that golden crispness we all love.

1. Prep the apples: Toss your thinly sliced apples with a pinch of cinnamon and a squeeze of lemon juice (if you like a little extra zing). Set them aside while you work on the batter—this lets them soften slightly and mingle with the spices.
2. Whisk the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and cardamom. Take a deep breath—that spice combo is heavenly, isn’t it?
3. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl—those sneaky bits of butter love to hide!
4. Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla. If the mixture looks slightly curdled, don’t panic—it’ll come together once you add the dry ingredients.

At this point, your kitchen should smell like a cozy autumn afternoon. Now, let’s bring it all together…

Conclusion

There you have it—a simple yet delightful Swedish Apple Cake that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender crumb, sweet apple layers, and warm cinnamon aroma, this dessert is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy it as an afternoon treat with a cup of coffee, this cake brings comfort in every bite.

Ready to bake your own? Gather those apples, preheat the oven, and let the cozy baking begin! We’d love to hear how your cake turns out—share your experience in the comments below or tag us on social media. And if you’re craving more Scandinavian-inspired treats, check out our Swedish Cinnamon Buns or Cardamom Bread next!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith work well for balance, sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji also taste delicious. Just keep in mind that softer apples may break down more during baking.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! This cake stays moist for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to a month. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven before serving.

Can I substitute the butter with oil?

Butter gives this cake its rich flavor, but you can use an equal amount of neutral oil (like vegetable or canola) if needed. The texture may be slightly denser, but it will still taste wonderful.

Why did my cake sink in the middle?

This can happen if the cake is underbaked or if the oven temperature is too low. Make sure to test for doneness with a toothpick—it should come out clean. Also, avoid opening the oven door too early, as sudden temperature changes can cause sinking.

Can I add nuts or other spices?

Of course! Chopped walnuts or almonds add a lovely crunch, and a pinch of cardamom or nutmeg can enhance the warm spice notes. Feel free to get creative with your favorite additions.