If you’re searching for a dessert that’s as comforting as it is impressive, Swedish Apple Cake with Caramel is the answer. This treat combines tender, spiced apples baked into a moist, golden cake, all crowned with a rich caramel glaze. Each bite feels like a warm embrace.

Fun fact: this cake is a staple in Swedish homes, often served at family gatherings and celebrations. With simple ingredients you likely have on hand, it’s perfect for unexpected guests or a quiet evening in. If you love the nostalgia of a classic apple pie but want something easier to slice and serve, this cake offers a delicious change of pace—one that might just have you reaching for a second (or third) piece.

What is Swedish Apple Cake?

Despite the name, this cake isn’t served alongside Swedish meatballs—though that would be a memorable dinner! Swedish Apple Cake is all about simplicity, turning fresh apples and pantry staples into a dessert that’s both rustic and elegant. Serve it warm, drizzled with caramel, and watch it win over even the most skeptical guests.

Why You’ll Love It

Fresh apple flavor – Juicy apple slices are the star of the show, providing natural sweetness and a hint of tartness.
Budget-friendly and homemade – Skip the bakery and enjoy a dessert that tastes gourmet without the price tag.
Aromatic spices – Cinnamon and vanilla infuse the cake with cozy warmth.
Perfect for sharing – Unlike a pie, this cake is easy to slice and serve, making it great for gatherings.

Think of it like the Swedish cousin of a German apple strudel—both celebrate the apple, but here you get a soft, shareable cake topped with silky caramel.

How to Make Swedish Apple Cake

Quick Overview

From start to finish, you’ll have this cake on the table in about an hour. The result? A soft, cinnamon-scented cake with apple in every bite and a luscious caramel finish.

Ingredients

For the cake:

4 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the caramel glaze:

1 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup heavy cream
Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat oven – Heat to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line with parchment.
Mix dry ingredients – In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
Mix wet ingredients – In another bowl, whisk melted butter, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
Combine – Add the wet ingredients to the dry, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing.
Add apples – Gently fold in sliced apples until evenly distributed.
Bake – Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
Make caramel glaze – While the cake bakes, simmer brown sugar, butter, and cream over medium heat for 4–5 minutes until slightly thickened. Add a pinch of salt.
Glaze and serve – Let cake cool for 10 minutes, then drizzle with warm caramel before serving.

What to Serve With It

Pair with vanilla ice cream, softly whipped cream, or a scoop of yogurt for a lighter option. For drinks, try a chai latte, spiced tea, or freshly brewed coffee to enhance the cozy flavors.

Pro Tips

Apple variety matters – A mix of tart and sweet apples creates the best flavor.
Mind the mixing – Overmixing will make the cake dense.
Storage – Keeps well at room temperature for 2 days, or refrigerate up to 1 week. Freeze slices for up to 3 months.

This Swedish Apple Cake with Caramel is the kind of dessert that makes a home smell incredible and brings people to the table faster than you can call them. Simple to make, comforting to eat, and impressive to serve—this one’s a keeper.