Swedish Apple Cake: A Warm, Spiced Dessert Straight from the Heart
There's something magical about recipes passed down through generations—and this Swedish Apple Cake is no exception. My mom used to bake this deliciously moist and spiced apple cake for family gatherings, and it never lasted long on the dessert table. With tender apple chunks, cozy spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and a decadent caramel glaze poured over the top, this cake is the definition of comfort in every bite. 🍎💛
If you're looking for a fall-inspired dessert that’s simple yet unforgettable, this Swedish Apple Cake is exactly what you need. It’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or simply to share with loved ones over coffee or tea.
🍏 Why You'll Love This Swedish Apple Cake
- Old-fashioned flavor that brings nostalgia and warmth
- Moist, tender texture with bites of fresh apple throughout
- Easy caramel topping that adds a rich, buttery finish
- No fancy tools or ingredients required—just a mixing bowl and a love for baking
- Customizable with nuts or a scoop of vanilla ice cream
Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned home baker, this recipe is as rewarding as it is simple.
📝 Ingredients
For the Cake:
- ½ cup butter, room temperature
- 1 ⅔ cups sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 3 cups diced and peeled apples (about 2 large apples, any variety you prefer)
- Optional: ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
For the Caramel Topping:
- 1 ⅓ cups brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons half & half
- 4 tablespoons butter
👨🍳 How to Make Swedish Apple Cake
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan thoroughly to ensure the cake doesn’t stick after baking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a small bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This step ensures even distribution of the spices and helps avoid clumps in the batter.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter and sugar until the mixture is light and smooth. This typically takes 2–3 minutes with a hand mixer. Then, add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until everything is incorporated—don’t overmix. Gently fold in the diced apples and chopped nuts if using. The batter will be thick and chunky, which is exactly what you want.
5. Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 35–40 minutes.
6. Prepare the Caramel
While the cake is baking, start the caramel topping. In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the brown sugar, half & half, and butter. Stir continuously until smooth and creamy. No need to boil—just make sure the mixture is fully melted and blended.
7. Finish Baking with Caramel
When the cake has baked for 35 minutes, remove it from the oven and pour the warm caramel over the top. Return the cake to the oven for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the center is set and the caramel begins to bubble or crack slightly.
8. Cool Before Serving
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This helps the caramel set slightly and makes slicing much easier.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Dust with powdered sugar for a simple, elegant finish.
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee or chai for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Serve cold the next day—it gets even better as the flavors meld!
🧊 Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store covered for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
- Freezer: Freeze slices individually, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil, for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat in the microwave.
💬 Final Thoughts
This Swedish Apple Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a bite of home, a moment of nostalgia, and a reminder of the warmth of family traditions. Whether you're baking it for a holiday, a special gathering, or just because, it’s guaranteed to win hearts.
So, grab your apples and your favorite mixing spoon—because once you taste this cake, you'll want to make it again and again.