Swedish Apple Cake is a delightful dessert that beautifully marries the sweetness of apples with warm spices, creating a cozy and inviting treat.
This cake is not just a visual delight but also offers a lovely texture, thanks to the diced apples and optional nuts, which add a satisfying crunch.
The rich, buttery batter is enhanced by the aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg, making it perfect for any gathering or as a comforting dessert at home.
Ingredients :
½ cup butter, room temp
1 ⅔ cup sugar
2 eggs
1 ½ teaspoons vanilla
1 ½ cups flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
½ teaspoon nutmeg
3 cups diced & peeled apples (~2 large apples)
Optional: ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Caramel
1 ⅓ cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons half & half
4 tablespoons butter
Preparation :
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F and thoroughly grease a 9-inch springform pan.
In a small bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until smooth, then add eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla.
Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined, then fold in apples and nuts if using.
Transfer batter to the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes as you prepare the caramel.
Caramel: when cake has been baking for 30 minutes, start the caramel.
Add brown sugar, half & half, and butter to a small saucepan over medium-low heat.
Stir often until the mixture is smooth and fully combined, no need to bring to a full boil.
Remove cake from oven and pour caramel over the top.
Return cake to oven for additional 10-15 minutes or until caramel is cracking and cake is cooked through the center.
Allow cake to cool at least 15 minutes before slicing.
For those looking to put their own spin on Swedish Apple Cake, there are several easy variations to explore.
You can experiment with different apple varieties—tart Granny Smiths add a sharp contrast, while sweeter Honeycrisps offer a mellower flavor.
For a more intense spice profile, consider adding cloves, cardamom, or allspice to the mix.
Nuts like almonds or hazelnuts can be substituted for pecans or walnuts, or omitted entirely if you prefer.
Gluten-free flour can be used for those with dietary restrictions, ensuring the cake remains moist and delicious.
Adding citrus zest or a splash of rum will elevate the flavors further, while a dairy-free version can be achieved by swapping the butter for a vegan alternative.
These small changes will make the cake uniquely yours without losing its comforting, classic appeal.
To store Swedish Apple Cake properly, allow it to cool completely after baking.
Once cooled, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container.
It can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days, but to extend its freshness, refrigerate it for up to 5 days.
The cake’s moisture, especially from the apples and caramel, makes refrigeration ideal for maintaining texture.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cake.
Wrap individual slices or the entire cake in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator or at room temperature and warm it slightly before serving if desired.