Swedish Apple Cake with Caramel Sauce

 Swedish Apple Cake with Caramel Sauce – A Cozy Dessert Perfect for Any Occasion

Swedish Apple Cake is a timeless dessert that combines warm spices, tender baked apples, and a rich caramel drizzle to create a treat that feels like a hug in every bite. Whether served at family gatherings, holiday dinners, or casual get-togethers, this dessert is always the first to disappear. Its moist texture, fragrant aroma, and buttery sweetness make it utterly irresistible.

In this post, you'll find a step-by-step guide to making this classic recipe, complete with pro tips for success, serving suggestions, and answers to common questions about baking the perfect Swedish Apple Cake.

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Ingredients for Swedish Apple Cake

For the Cake:

½ cup butter (softened): Adds richness and a moist texture to the cake.

1 ⅔ cups granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and aids in caramelization for a golden-brown crust.

2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add structure to the cake.

1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the base structure for the cake.

1 teaspoon baking soda: Acts as a leavening agent to help the cake rise.

1 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances other flavors.

1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon: Infuses the cake with a cozy, spiced flavor perfect for fall or winter.

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a warm, nutty undertone to complement the cinnamon.

3 cups peeled and diced apples (about 2 large apples): Deliver natural sweetness and keep the cake moist and tender.

Optional – ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts: Add crunch and a nutty flavor for extra texture.

For the Caramel Sauce:

1 ⅓ cups brown sugar: Provides a deep, molasses-like sweetness for the caramel.

2 tablespoons half-and-half: Creates a smooth, creamy texture in the sauce.

4 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and a silky finish to the caramel.

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Instructions – How to Make Swedish Apple Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease a 9-inch springform pan thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

This step ensures the spices are evenly distributed, giving the cake a consistent flavor.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).

This process incorporates air, making the cake soft and tender.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated.

Stir in the vanilla extract for a burst of flavor.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the cake light and fluffy.

Step 6: Fold in Apples (and Nuts, if Using)

Gently fold in the diced apples and nuts (if desired) using a spatula.

The apples release moisture as they bake, creating a moist, dense crumb.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.

Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Begin preparing the caramel sauce while the cake bakes.

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Step 8: Make the Caramel Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, half-and-half, and butter over medium heat.

Stir continuously until the butter melts and the sauce thickens (about 5–7 minutes).

Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before drizzling over the cake.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Swedish Apple Cake

1. Choose the Right Apples: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for balanced flavor.

2. Room-Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter and eggs are at room temperature to achieve a smooth batter.

3. Don’t Over-Mix: Over-mixing can make the cake dense instead of light and moist.

4. Check Doneness Early: Ovens can vary, so start checking the cake at 35 minutes to avoid over-baking.

5. Make-Ahead Friendly: The cake can be baked a day in advance and reheated slightly before serving.

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Serving Suggestions

Warm and Fresh: Serve slices warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.

Drizzle Extra Caramel: Offer extra caramel sauce on the side for those who can’t get enough sweetness.

Add a Dusting of Powdered Sugar: Sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance.

Pair with Coffee or Cider: This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee, chai latte, or hot apple cider.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comfort Food Perfection: With its spiced apple filling and gooey caramel drizzle, this cake is pure comfort in dessert form.

Easy to Make: Simple steps make this recipe beginner-friendly while delivering bakery-quality results.

Versatile: Ideal for holiday parties, Sunday brunches, or a cozy night in.

Crowd-Pleaser: It’s guaranteed to be the first dessert to disappear at any gathering!

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Final Thoughts – Make This Swedish Apple Cake Today!

This Swedish Apple Cake is a celebration of warm flavors and simple ingredients, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a holiday feast or just craving a sweet treat, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

The moist cake, combined with the buttery caramel sauce, delivers a dessert that’s both easy to prepare and impossible to resist. Try it today and watch it disap

pear—just be prepared to share the recipe when everyone asks for it!

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