Introduction
Swedish Apple Cake, known as “Äppelkaka” in Sweden, is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of Scandinavian baking. This cake is a celebration of simplicity and the natural sweetness of apples. It combines a moist, lightly spiced cake base with a generous layer of sliced apples, creating a treat that’s perfect for a cozy afternoon or as a sweet ending to a Scandinavian-inspired meal.
Who Is This Recipe For?
Swedish Apple Cake is for anyone who appreciates the comforting flavors of apples, cinnamon, and a hint of almond. It’s perfect for:
- Scandinavian Cuisine Lovers: If you’re a fan of Scandinavian dishes and want to explore their dessert offerings, this cake is a must-try.
- Baking Enthusiasts: Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting, this recipe is approachable and satisfying.
- Tea and Coffee Enthusiasts: Swedish Apple Cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
What Makes Swedish Apple Cake So Special?
Apple Abundance
This cake showcases the natural sweetness and flavors of apples, as the main ingredient.
Lightly Spiced
A touch of cinnamon and almond extract provides subtle warmth to the cake.
Versatile
Swedish Apple Cake can be enjoyed as a dessert or a coffee cake for brunch.
Scandinavian Tradition
It offers a taste of Sweden and the tradition of fika – a Swedish coffee break often accompanied by baked goods.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the process of making Swedish Apple Cake, let’s gather our ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 4 medium-sized apples (e.g., Granny Smith or Golden Delicious), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 cup milk
For Topping:
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Directions
Now, let’s get into the process of creating this delectable Swedish Apple Cake:
Prepare the Apples
- Start by peeling, coring, and slicing the apples. Set them aside for later.
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
Make the Cake Batter
- In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Set this dry mixture aside.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, and stir in the almond extract.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just incorporated.
Assemble the Cake
- Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared cake pan.
- Arrange half of the sliced apples over the batter.
- Sprinkle the apples with a mixture of 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
- Repeat the process by adding the remaining batter and layering the rest of the apples on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Serve and Enjoy
- Allow the Swedish Apple Cake to cool for a while before slicing and serving. It’s delightful when enjoyed slightly warm.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
To make Swedish Apple Cake, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:
- 9-inch Round Cake Pan: For baking the cake.
- Mixing Bowls: For preparing the cake batter.
- Peeler, Corer, and Knife: For peeling, coring, and slicing the apples.
- Oven: To bake the cake to perfection.
How to Store Leftovers
If you happen to have any Swedish Apple Cake leftovers (which is rare because it’s so delicious), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can enjoy it for a few days, but it’s best when freshly baked.
Recipe Swaps and Variations
While classic Swedish Apple Cake is delightful, you can experiment with variations:
- Nutty Twist: Add a handful of chopped almonds or walnuts for a nutty crunch.
- Pear Delight: Replace the apples with ripe pears for a different fruity flavor.
- Raspberry Swirl: Mix in some fresh raspberries for a tart contrast to the sweet apples.
- Lemon Zest: Add a touch of lemon zest to the cake batter for a refreshing citrus note.
FAQ
Q: Can I use any type of apple?
A: You can use your favorite apples for this recipe, but varieties like Granny Smith or Golden Delicious work particularly well due to their balance of sweet and tart flavors.
Q: Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A: While almond flour can be used, it will significantly change the texture of the cake, making it denser and more moist. If you prefer almond flour, consider finding a specific almond flour cake recipe for the best results.
Q: Can I serve this cake with whipped cream or ice cream?
A: Certainly! A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream complements Swedish Apple Cake beautifully.
Q: Can I make this cake in advance?
A: Swedish Apple Cake is best enjoyed fresh, but you can make it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, slightly reheating it before serving for the best taste and texture.
Conclusion
Swedish Apple Cake, or “Äppelkaka,” offers a taste of Scandinavia with its delightful combination of apples, cinnamon, and almond. Whether you’re enjoying it as part of a Swedish fika or simply as a comforting dessert, this cake is a tribute to the sweet traditions of the north. So, gather your ingredients, bake a slice of Sweden, and enjoy the warmth and flavors of Swedish Apple Cake. Don’t forget to subscribe to my blog for more international culinary inspirations. Enjoy!