This Swedish Apple Cake is a cozy, cinnamon-spiced dessert with a soft, buttery vanilla cake and a sweet apple topping. Easy to make with simple ingredients, it’s perfect for fall baking, family gatherings, or an everyday treat.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
- Total Time: 55–60 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Oven Temperature: 350°F (175°C)
Ingredients
For the Apple Topping
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced or chopped
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Cake
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional Toppings
- Powdered sugar
- Whipped cream
- Vanilla ice cream
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Peel, core, and slice or chop the apples. Toss them with lemon juice, sugar, and cinnamon. Set aside while preparing the cake batter.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or springform pan.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined. The batter will be thick.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Arrange the cinnamon-sugar apples over the top, including any juices from the bowl. Gently press the apples into the batter.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
If the top browns too quickly, check the cake toward the end of baking and cover loosely with foil if needed.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
Serve warm or at room temperature. Dust with powdered sugar or add whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.
Tips for the Best Swedish Apple Cake
- Choose firm apples: Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Pink Lady apples hold their shape and balance the sweetness.
- Avoid overmixing: Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined to keep the cake tender.
- Slice evenly: Uniform apple slices help the topping cook evenly.
- Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the cake portion, avoiding the apple topping.
- Serve warm: A warm slice with vanilla ice cream makes a delicious dessert.
Storage Instructions
- Room temperature: Store covered for up to 2 days in a cool environment.
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
- Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds, or until heated to your liking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best apples for Swedish Apple Cake?
Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Pink Lady apples are excellent choices because they hold their shape and provide a pleasant balance of sweet and tart flavors.
Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Yes. Brown sugar adds a deeper, caramel-like flavor to the cake and apple topping. The texture and sweetness may vary slightly.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Peeling is recommended for a softer, more uniform texture, but you can leave the skins on for a more rustic cake.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes. Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Follow the blend’s instructions for the best results.
Can I use a springform pan?
Yes. A 9-inch springform pan works well and makes it easier to remove the cake for serving. A regular 9-inch round cake pan also works.
Enjoy Your Homemade Swedish Apple Cake
With its tender vanilla crumb and cinnamon-coated apple topping, this Swedish Apple Cake is a simple, comforting dessert for any occasion. Serve it fresh from the oven or enjoy a slice with coffee or tea.