Swedish Apple Cake (or “Äppelkaka”) is a delicious and comforting dessert that’s often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea. It’s a simple yet flavorful cake that features fresh apples and a lightly spiced batter. Here’s a classic recipe for Swedish Apple Cake:
Ingredients:
- 2-3 medium apples (peeled, cored, and sliced)
- 200g (1 cup) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 200g (1 1/2 cups) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cardamom (optional)
- 100g (1/2 cup) melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk (or buttermilk)
- Pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Apples: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour a round or square baking pan (about 20 cm/8 inches). Peel, core, and slice the apples thinly, then set aside.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, cardamom (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine.
- Make the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract, whisking until smooth. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir gently until just combined.
- Assemble the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Arrange the apple slices evenly on top of the batter, slightly overlapping in a circular pattern or however you like.
- Bake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-50 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Before serving, dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Tips:
- You can use any variety of apples, but tart apples like Granny Smith work well in this cake.
- For extra flavor, you can sprinkle some chopped almonds or a handful of raisins on top before baking.
- This cake is often enjoyed with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Enjoy your Swedish Apple Cake! It’s a warm, flavorful treat that’s perfect for a cozy winter afternoon.
