Introduction
There’s something magical about family recipes that transport us back to cherished moments around the dining table. This Swedish Apple Cake is more than just a dessert – it’s a slice of culinary heritage that brings warmth, comfort, and sweet memories. Known for its simple yet irresistible combination of tender cake and fragrant spices, this recipe has been delighting families for generations.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 113g (½ cup) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 335g (1 ⅔ cups) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 190g (1½ cups) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
Optional Toppings
- Fresh apples, thinly sliced
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla ice cream
- Whipped cream
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Baking Setup
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Grease a 9-inch round or square baking pan
- Line with parchment paper for easy removal
- Cream Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, soften butter
- Add sugar
- Beat until light and fluffy
- Approximately 3-4 minutes
- Add Wet Ingredients
- Incorporate eggs one at a time
- Mix thoroughly after each addition
- Stir in vanilla extract
- Ensure smooth, even mixture
- Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, sift flour
- Add baking soda, salt, and cinnamon
- Whisk to distribute evenly
- Create Cake Batter
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture
- Mix until just combined
- Avoid overmixing to maintain cake’s tender texture
- Bake to Perfection
- Pour batter into prepared pan
- Smooth top with spatula
- Bake for 35-40 minutes
- Check doneness with toothpick
- Toothpick should come out clean
- Cool and Serve
- Remove from oven
- Let cake cool in pan for 10 minutes
- Transfer to wire rack
- Cool completely before serving
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Total Fat | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 42g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Sugar | 26g |
| Fiber | 1g |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 40 minutes Total Time: 55 minutes Servings: 8-10 slices
Baking Tips and Tricks
- Use room temperature ingredients for better integration
- Don’t overmix the batter
- Test cake doneness with a toothpick
- Allow cake to cool completely before slicing
- Store in an airtight container to maintain moisture
Variations and Substitutions
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour blend
- Reduced Sugar: Substitute part of sugar with applesauce
- Spice Variations:
- Add nutmeg
- Include ground cardamom
- Sprinkle with additional cinnamon
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I add fresh apples to the cake? A: Yes! Slice apples thinly and layer on top before baking.
Q2: How long will the cake stay fresh? A: 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
Q3: Can I freeze this cake? A: Absolutely! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Q4: What’s the best way to serve this cake? A: Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Q5: Can I make this cake vegan? A: Use plant-based butter and egg substitutes like flax eggs.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Room temperature storage: 3-4 days
- Cover with plastic wrap or store in sealed container
- Reheat briefly in microwave before serving
- Can be prepared a day in advance
- Best enjoyed fresh, within 2 days of baking
Enjoy this delightful Swedish Apple Cake – a true testament to the power of simple, heartwarming baking!