Introduction
One of the best parts of family gatherings is, undoubtedly, the dessert table. The aromas of freshly baked treats linger in the air, sparking memories of cozy moments shared with loved ones. Among all the desserts, there’s one that never fails to disappear first — Swedish Apple Cake! This warm, comforting cake is filled with tender apples, a hint of cinnamon, and topped with a rich caramel sauce. The flavors and textures blend so perfectly that it has become a go-to recipe for many families, just like it was in mine. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or just looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, this Swedish Apple Cake recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
For the cake:
½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
1 ⅔ cup granulated sugar
2 large 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 of your choice)
Optional: ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch
For the caramel sauce:
1 ⅓ cups packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons half & half or heavy cream
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
How to Make Swedish Apple Cake
1. Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake the cake. Grease a 9-inch springform pan generously. If you don’t have a springform pan, you can use a regular cake pan, but the springform pan makes it easier to remove the cake after baking. You may also want to line the bottom with parchment paper to avoid any sticking.
2. Sift Dry Ingredients
In a small bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Sifting ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed and helps prevent clumps. The cinnamon and nutmeg will infuse the cake with a warm, comforting flavor that pairs perfectly with the apples. Set the dry ingredients aside for later.
3. Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. You can use a hand mixer or stand mixer for this step, but a whisk and some elbow grease will work just fine too. The butter should be at room temperature so that it mixes well with the sugar. This process will take about 3-5 minutes, and it’s important to make sure the mixture is light and airy.
4. Add Eggs & Vanilla
Once the butter and sugar are combined, beat in the eggs one at a time. This is crucial because adding the eggs gradually ensures they are fully incorporated into the batter. After adding the eggs, mix in the vanilla extract. The vanilla will add a nice depth of flavor to the cake, balancing the spices and apples.
5. Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this could result in a dense cake. The batter should be thick and slightly sticky. Once combined, fold in the diced apples and any nuts you choose to add for a bit of crunch. The apples should be chopped into small, bite-sized pieces to ensure they distribute evenly throughout the cake.
6. Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so be sure to keep an eye on the cake. The top should be golden brown and slightly cracked around the edges.
7. Prepare the Caramel Sauce
While the cake is baking, it’s time to prepare the luxurious caramel sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, half & half (or heavy cream), and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and continue to simmer for 3-5 minutes, until the caramel thickens slightly. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent burning. Once done, remove the pan from the heat and allow the caramel to cool slightly.
8. Finish the Cake
Once the cake has finished baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, carefully remove the sides of the springform pan. Transfer the cake to a serving platter. Drizzle the warm caramel sauce generously over the top of the cake, allowing it to soak into the warm cake. If desired, sprinkle with additional chopped pecans or walnuts for some extra texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Swedish Apple Cake is best served warm, just after the caramel has been poured on top. You can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. It’s the perfect dessert for any gathering or simply as a special treat for yourself and your loved ones.
Tips for Success
Choosing the Right Apples: The type of apple you use can greatly affect the flavor and texture of the cake. For a balance of sweetness and tartness, try using a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples. You can also use any apples you prefer, but make sure they hold up well during baking.
Texture Variations: If you want a more tender, cake-like texture, be sure not to overmix the batter. On the other hand, if you prefer a bit of extra texture, you can lightly mash some of the apples before adding them to the batter.
Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the cake a day ahead and store it at room temperature in an airtight container. The caramel sauce can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat the sauce before serving.
Freezing: If you have leftovers, this cake freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Cake
This Swedish Apple Cake is a perfect dessert for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or any occasion that calls for a warm, comforting treat. The combination of tender apples, spices, and rich caramel will create a memorable experience for anyone who takes a bite. It's incredibly easy to make, and it has that homemade touch that store-bought cakes simply can’t replicate.
If you're looking to explore more delicious desserts like this, be sure to check out our other apple-themed recipes or browse through our baking collection for more inspiration.
Enjoy baking this Swedish Apple Cake and delight in the joy it brings to your table!
