Swedish Apple Cake with Caramel

A Traditional Treat with a Sweet Twist

Swedish Apple Cake, or “Äppelkaka,” is a delightful Scandinavian dessert that combines soft, spiced apples with a tender cake base. This version takes it up a notch by adding a luscious caramel sauce, enhancing the cake’s natural sweetness and adding a rich, buttery depth. It’s the perfect balance of cozy and indulgent, making it a wonderful choice for autumn gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply a comforting dessert at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Classic flavors – The combination of cinnamon-spiced apples and a moist cake is timeless.
  • Rich caramel topping – A homemade caramel sauce brings a luxurious texture and taste.
  • Simple ingredients – Uses pantry staples that are easy to find.
  • Perfect for any occasion – Great for holidays, teatime, or a special after-dinner treat.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 2 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground cardamom (optional, for extra warmth)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup sour cream or plain yogurt

For the Caramel Sauce:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or springform pan.
  2. Toss the apple slices with cinnamon and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and cardamom.
  2. In a separate large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Mix in the sour cream until smooth.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

  1. Pour half of the batter into the prepared cake pan.
  2. Layer the cinnamon-coated apple slices on top.
  3. Spread the remaining batter over the apples, smoothing it out evenly.
  4. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  5. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Step 4: Make the Caramel Sauce

  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
  2. Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream, whisking constantly until smooth.
  3. Bring to a gentle simmer and let cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in the salt and vanilla extract.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Drizzle the warm caramel sauce over the cooled apple cake.
  2. Slice and serve, optionally with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Variations

  • Nutty Crunch – Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra texture.
  • Extra Caramelized Apples – Sauté the apples in butter and sugar before layering them into the cake.
  • Dairy-Free Option – Use plant-based butter and coconut cream for the caramel sauce.
  • Spiced Twist – Enhance the warmth with nutmeg or ginger.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 8-10 slices
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour

Storage and Reheating

  • Room Temperature: Store covered for up to 2 days.
  • Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Freezer: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different apples?

Yes! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices, you can also try Fuji, Gala, or Braeburn for different levels of sweetness and texture.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and add the caramel sauce before serving.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

Plain yogurt or buttermilk work well as substitutes for sour cream.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

What if my caramel sauce is too thick?

Reheat it gently and add a splash of cream to thin it out.

Can I make this cake without caramel?

Definitely! The cake is delicious on its own, or you can dust it with powdered sugar for a lighter option.

Should I peel the apples?

Peeling is recommended for a softer texture, but if you like a more rustic feel, you can leave the skins on.

Can I use a bundt pan?

Yes, but you may need to adjust the baking time to around 45-50 minutes.

How do I prevent the apples from sinking?

Tossing them in a little flour before adding them to the batter helps keep them in place.

Can I use store-bought caramel?

Yes, but homemade caramel has a richer flavor and fresher taste.

Conclusion

Swedish Apple Cake with Caramel is a cozy, heartwarming dessert that brings a touch of Scandinavian charm to your table. Whether you serve it as a special holiday treat or a casual weeknight dessert, its tender cake, spiced apples, and buttery caramel sauce make it a must-try. Enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea, and let each bite transport you to a crisp autumn afternoon in Sweden.

O

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
inesboulila A freshly baked Swedish apple cake with caramel gol 3f75030c 82ef 4678 b02c 01dfe7b91cab

Swedish Apple Cake with Caramel


  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 810 slices 1x

Description

A classic Swedish Apple Cake (Äppelkaka) with spiced apples and a tender cake base, topped with a rich homemade caramel sauce. Perfect for fall gatherings and cozy desserts.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake:

  • 2 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional, for extra warmth)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt

For the Caramel Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or springform pan.
  2. Toss the apple slices with cinnamon and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and cardamom.
  2. In a separate large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Mix in the sour cream until smooth.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

  1. Pour half of the batter into the prepared cake pan.
  2. Layer the cinnamon-coated apple slices on top.
  3. Spread the remaining batter over the apples, smoothing it out evenly.
  4. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  5. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Step 4: Make the Caramel Sauce

  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
  2. Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream, whisking constantly until smooth.
  3. Bring to a gentle simmer and let cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in the salt and vanilla extract.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Drizzle the warm caramel sauce over the cooled apple cake.
  2. Slice and serve, optionally with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.


Notes

  • Nutty Crunch – Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra texture.
  • Extra Caramelized Apples – Sauté the apples in butter and sugar before layering them into the cake.
  • Dairy-Free Option – Use plant-based butter and coconut cream for the caramel sauce.
  • Spiced Twist – Enhance the warmth with nutmeg or ginger.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: swedish

Keywords: Swedish apple cake, Äppelkaka, apple dessert, caramel apple cake, Scandinavian dessert

Hi, I AM Olivia

Step into my world of culinary delights, where every dish tells a story and every recipe is a treasure trove of flavors passed down through generations.

Edit Template

Get Inspired on Pinterest!

Hi, I’m Amanda Brooks! I share simple and tasty recipes for families to make mealtime fun. Follow me for quick and easy ideas everyone will love!