There’s something about the scent of cinnamon and apples wafting through the kitchen that feels like a hug from autumn itself. I first tasted Swedish Apple Cake on a chilly afternoon in Stockholm, tucked into a cozy café with steam curling from my teacup. The cake was tender, lightly spiced, and studded with juicy apples—simple yet unforgettable. Now, it’s become my go-to recipe when I want to bring that same warmth to my own table. Whether you’re hosting friends or just craving a little comfort, this cake is a slice of pure contentment.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients feels like assembling little treasures—each one plays a part in creating that perfect balance of flavor and texture:

• 3 medium apples (I love Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for their balance of sweetness and tartness)
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled for the perfect crumb)
• 1 tsp baking powder (the lift that keeps the cake airy)
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon (a whisper of spice that makes the apples sing)
• ¼ tsp salt (to enhance all the flavors)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar (just enough sweetness without overpowering the fruit)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (richness that ties everything together)
• 2 large eggs (room temperature for a smoother batter)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (a touch of warmth and depth)
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional, but oh-so-pretty)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the apples: Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Toss them with a sprinkle of cinnamon if you’re feeling extra cozy—this little step adds a layer of flavor.
2. Whisk the dry ingredients: In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Give it a gentle whisk to banish any lumps.
3. Mix the wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth and slightly glossy.
4. Bring it all together: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. A few streaks of flour are okay—overmixing leads to a tough cake.
5. Layer with love: 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 beautifully as it bakes.
6. Bake to golden perfection: Pop it into a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar—if you can resist slicing right in!

Tip: For an extra-crisp top, sprinkle a tablespoon of sugar over the apples before baking. It creates a delicate, caramelized crust that’s utterly irresistible.

There’s something undeniably comforting about Swedish Apple Cake—its tender crumb, sweet apple chunks, and that irresistible hint of cinnamon make it a beloved treat any time of day. Whether you’re baking it for a cozy afternoon fika or a special dessert, this cake never fails to delight. Below, I’ve gathered some pro tips, serving suggestions, and answers to common questions to help you make the most of this recipe.

Pro Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

Want to take your Swedish Apple Cake to the next level? Here are a few tricks and tweaks to try:

• Use a mix of apples: Combining tart Granny Smith with sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji adds depth of flavor.
• Add nuts: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Spice it up: A pinch of cardamom or nutmeg alongside the cinnamon adds warmth.
• Dairy-free option: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.
• Gluten-free swap: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.

What to Serve With Swedish Apple Cake

This cake is delicious on its own, but a few accompaniments can make it even more special:

• A dollop of freshly whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
• A drizzle of warm caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar.
• A cup of strong coffee or spiced chai for the ultimate fika experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To keep your Swedish Apple Cake fresh and flavorful:

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: For longer storage, wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Slice and freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-sliced apples?
Yes! Just make sure they’re fresh and not overly dried out. If using canned apples, drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

Why did my cake sink in the middle?
This usually happens if the cake is underbaked or if the oven temperature is too low. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy, and test for doneness with a toothpick before removing from the oven.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Bake it a day in advance—the flavors actually deepen overnight. Just store it properly and warm slightly before serving.

Is this cake suitable for freezing?
Yes! Wrap cooled slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw at room temperature or reheat gently.

A Warm Final Thought

Swedish Apple Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a little slice of comfort, perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring on a quiet afternoon. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own twist, I hope this cake brings as much joy to your kitchen as it has to mine. Happy baking!