Swedish Apple Cake
Ingredients
3-4 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are great options)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, to prevent apples from browning)
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground cardamom (optional, for a traditional Swedish flavor)
¼ teaspoon salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup whole milk
1 tablespoon demerara sugar or granulated sugar (for sprinkling on top)
Optional Toppings:
Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour an 8 or 9-inch round cake pan (springform works best) or a deep-dish pie pan.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples.
Toss the apple slices with lemon juice (if using) to prevent browning, and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt.
In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined (be careful not to overmix).
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Arrange half of the apple slices over the batter.
Pour the remaining batter over the apples and spread it evenly.
Arrange the remaining apple slices on top in a circular pattern or design.
Sprinkle 1 tablespoon demerara sugar (or granulated sugar) over the top for a nice crunch.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the cake is golden brown.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then remove from the pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Serve
Dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar before serving.
Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.