Swedish Apple Cake

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Instructions

  1. Prepare the Oven & Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round or square baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

  2. Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Set them aside.

  3. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and cardamom. This ensures the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed.

  4. Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a separate, larger bowl, whisk the melted butter and sugar together. Add the beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and yogurt (or sour cream), and whisk until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.

  5. Make the Batter: Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Using a spatula, fold the mixture together just until no streaks of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix; the batter will be thick.

  6. Assemble the Layers:

    • Spread half of the batter evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan.

    • Arrange half of the apple slices in a single layer over the batter.

    • Dollop the remaining batter over the apples and gently spread it to cover them as best you can—it’s okay if some apples peek through.

    • Artfully arrange the remaining apple slices on top in a circular or overlapping pattern.

  7. Add the Topping & Bake: In a small dish, mix the 2 tablespoons of sugar with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Sprinkle this evenly over the top layer of apples. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.

  8. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

  • Classic: Enjoy a slice with a hot cup of coffee or tea.

  • As Dessert: Elevate it with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

  • For Brunch: This cake makes a wonderful addition to a brunch spread alongside savory dishes.

Chef’s Tips & Variations

  • Apple Selection is Key: For the best texture, use firm, baking-friendly apples like Granny Smith (for tartness), Honeycrisp, or Braeburn.

  • Avoid Overmixing: Mixing the batter until just combined is the secret to a tender, not tough, crumb.

  • Get Creative:

    • Add Crunch: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or sliced almonds on top with the cinnamon sugar.

    • Berry Delight: Scatter a handful of fresh or frozen raspberries or blueberries over the middle apple layer.

    • Spice Swap: Try a pinch of nutmeg or allspice in place of the cardamom.

    • Make it Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

    • Make it Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and your favorite plain, unsweetened non-dairy yogurt.

  • Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

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