Swedish Apple Cake with Caramel

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg with the sweetness of apples.
• Topped with a buttery caramel glaze for added decadence.
• Simple ingredients and easy steps make it beginner-friendly.
• Perfect for serving at gatherings, holidays, or as a cozy dessert with tea or coffee.
• Can be customized with your choice of nuts or made nut-free.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake:

• ½ cup butter, room temperature
• 1 ⅔ cups sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla
• 1 ½ cups flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• 3 cups diced & peeled apples (about 2 large apples)
• Optional: ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts

For the Caramel:

• 1 ⅓ cups brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons half & half
• 4 tablespoons butter

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a small bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla.
4. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Fold in diced apples and nuts, if using.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. While the cake is baking, prepare the caramel. In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine brown sugar, half & half, and butter. Stir frequently until the mixture is smooth and combined.
7. Once the cake is out of the oven, pour the caramel sauce over the top. Return it to the oven for another 10–15 minutes, or until the caramel is slightly cracked and the cake is fully cooked.
8. Let the cake cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10–12 slices
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50–55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Nut-Free Option: Skip the pecans or walnuts for an allergen-friendly version.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour.
• Extra Spice: Add a pinch of cloves or cardamom for more warmth.
• Fruity Additions: Include raisins or dried cranberries for extra texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds to restore their softness and enhance the caramel flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of apples?

Yes! Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples work well for a balance of sweetness and tartness.

2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely. The cake can be baked a day in advance and stored at room temperature. Reheat if desired before serving.

3. Is it possible to freeze Swedish Apple Cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

4. What can I use instead of half & half?

You can use heavy cream or whole milk as a substitute for half & half.

5. Do I need to peel the apples?

Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but you can leave the skin on for added fiber and rustic appeal.

6. Can I make the caramel sauce separately?

Yes, you can make the caramel in advance and drizzle it over the cake just before serving.

7. What type of nuts pair best with this cake?

Pecans and walnuts complement the cake’s flavors beautifully.

8. Can I use a different pan?

A 9-inch square or round cake pan can be used, but adjust baking time as needed.

9. What if my caramel cracks too much?

Cracks are natural but if they’re too deep, reduce the second bake time slightly.

10. How can I tell if the cake is fully cooked?

Insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is done.

Conclusion

This Swedish Apple Cake with Caramel is a dessert that combines simplicity with indulgence. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, its tender crumb, rich caramel topping, and warm spices are sure to impress. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an unforgettable experience!