Swedish Apple Cake

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Here’s a classic recipe for Swedish Apple Cake (Äppelkaka)—a simple, rustic dessert that’s moist, lightly spiced, and topped with tender apples:

Swedish Apple Cake (Äppelkaka)

Ingredients:

For the cake:

  • 2–3 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup milk or cream

For topping:

  • 1–2 tbsp sugar (white or raw)
  • Optional: sliced almonds, extra cinnamon

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan or round cake pan.
  2. Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples thinly. Toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning. Set aside.
  3. Make the batter:
    • In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
    • In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
    • Beat in eggs, one at a time, then add vanilla.
    • Add dry ingredients in batches, alternating with milk. Mix until just combined.
  4. Assemble: Pour batter into the pan and smooth the top. Arrange apple slices in a circular pattern on top. Sprinkle with sugar and optional almonds.
  5. Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean and the top is golden.
  6. Cool in pan for 10–15 minutes, then remove and let cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Serving Tip: Delicious with whipped cream, vanilla sauce, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Would you like a gluten-free version or a visual diagram for the apple pattern on top?

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