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Authentic & Easy Swedish Apple Cake (Äppelkaka) with Cardamom Crumble

A close-up of a moist slice of swedish apple cake featuring tender apples and a cinnamon crumb topping on a white plate.

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Experience the simplicity and deliciousness of Swedish Apple Cake, a beloved treat perfect for any occasion. This recipe features a tender cake base, warm cinnamon, and the subtle flavor of cardamom, making it a truly comforting Nordic baking classic.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 medium tart apples (like Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons milk

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside.
  3. In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until just combined.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just incorporated. Do not overmix.
  6. In a small bowl, toss the thinly sliced apples with the lemon juice.
  7. Gently fold half of the lemon-tossed apples into the cake batter.
  8. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared cake pan. Arrange the remaining apple slices decoratively over the top of the batter.
  9. Drizzle the milk evenly over the apples on top of the cake.
  10. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  11. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • For a traditional presentation, dust the cooled cake lightly with powdered sugar before serving.
  • If you prefer a crispier top, you can sprinkle 1 tablespoon of coarse sugar over the apples before baking.
  • This moist apple dessert pairs well with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

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