Cinnamon-Spiced Swedish Apple Cake

This rustic Swedish Apple Cake brings the cozy flavors of Scandinavian baking right to your kitchen with its perfect balance of tender apples and warm spices. The cardamom adds an authentic touch that transforms this simple cake into something truly special.

I first made this cake when hosting a Swedish-themed dinner party and it was such a hit that it became my signature fall dessert. My mother-in-law even requested the recipe after claiming it reminded her of her grandmother's baking.

Ingredients

• All purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure without being too heavy
• Baking powder and baking soda: Work together to create a tender crumb with just the right rise
• Ground cardamom: This optional spice is what makes this cake authentically Swedish with its distinctive aromatic flavor
• Fresh apples: Choose firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp that hold their shape during baking
• Yogurt or sour cream: Adds moisture and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness
• Cinnamon sugar topping: Creates a delicate crisp crust that complements the soft interior

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Pan:

Thoroughly grease a 9-inch pan and line with parchment paper ensuring the paper extends up the sides for easy removal. This step is crucial as the apple juices can cause sticking.

Prepare The Apples:

Peel and slice apples thinly and uniformly about 1/8 inch thick. Consistent slicing ensures even cooking and prevents some pieces from becoming mushy while others remain too firm.

Mix Dry Ingredients:

Whisk the flour mixture thoroughly to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices. This prevents pockets of baking powder or cinnamon from creating uneven flavor in the finished cake.

Combine Wet Ingredients:

Ensure your melted butter has cooled slightly before adding eggs to prevent cooking them. The yogurt should be at room temperature for the smoothest incorporation into the batter.

Layer The Cake:

When spreading the thick batter use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon dipped in water to prevent sticking. Press gently to create an even layer without compacting the batter too much.

Arrange Apple Slices:

For the decorative top layer arrange apple slices in a circular pattern starting from the outside working inward for a professional bakery look. Slightly overlapping the slices accommodates for shrinkage during baking.

Apply Topping:

Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly using your fingers from a height of about 6 inches above the cake to ensure even distribution across the surface.

Bake To Perfection:

Look for golden edges pulling away from the sides of the pan and a dry toothpick from the center. The apples should be tender when pierced with a knife but not completely broken down.

Save

Cardamom is my favorite element in this recipe. My Swedish neighbor taught me that this spice is the secret to authentic Scandinavian baking. She explained that her family has been using the same mortar and pestle to grind cardamom pods fresh for their baking for three generations.

Storage And Freshness

Store this cake covered at room temperature for up to three days. The moisture from the apples helps keep it from drying out unlike many other cakes. For longer storage refrigerate for up to a week though the texture becomes slightly more dense when chilled. Allow to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Seasonal Variations

While traditional Swedish apple cake uses fall apples you can adapt this recipe throughout the year. In summer try substituting half the apples with fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries. In winter pears make an excellent alternative creating a slightly more delicate flavor profile. During spring adding rhubarb along with the apples creates a pleasant tartness that complements the sweet cake beautifully.

Serving Traditions

In Sweden this cake is typically enjoyed during fika the daily coffee break that's an important cultural tradition. Serve it mid-afternoon with strong coffee or tea in small portions. For a more decadent dessert presentation warm each slice slightly and top with vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce. During holiday gatherings add a dollop of lingonberry preserves on the side for an authentic Swedish touch.

Recipe FAQs

→ What apples work best for Swedish apple cake?

Firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn work best as they hold their shape during baking and provide a nice contrast to the sweet cake. However, any apple variety you enjoy eating will work - just adjust sugar levels if using particularly sweet or tart varieties.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! This cake actually develops more flavor after sitting for a day. Store at room temperature, covered, for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Warm individual slices briefly in the microwave before serving for the best texture and flavor.

→ Is cardamom necessary for authentic Swedish flavor?

While cardamom adds traditional Nordic character, the cake remains delicious without it. Cardamom is common in Swedish baking, but many home versions omit it, focusing instead on the cinnamon-apple combination. If available, even a small amount enhances the cake's authentic appeal.

→ How do I know when the cake is properly baked?

The cake should be golden brown on top with tender apple slices. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The edges will pull away slightly from the pan. If the top browns too quickly while baking, loosely cover with foil for the remaining time.

→ What can I serve with Swedish apple cake?

Traditional accompaniments include lightly sweetened whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or vanilla sauce (custard). For extra indulgence, drizzle with caramel sauce. In Sweden, it's often enjoyed with a cup of coffee as an afternoon treat called 'fika'.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, this cake freezes well. Cool completely, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm slightly before serving for best texture and flavor.