Swedish Apple Cake

Swedish Apple Cake (Air Fryer Version)

Table of Contents

Intro

Swedish Apple Cake, known as Äppelkaka, is a beloved Scandinavian treat that’s cozy, comforting, and perfect for apple season—or really, any time you crave a lightly spiced, moist dessert. Unlike American-style apple pies, this cake features tender slices of apple layered or pressed into a buttery sponge-like batter and is traditionally served with vanilla sauce or whipped cream.

In this air fryer version, we simplify the baking process without sacrificing texture or flavor. Expect a golden, tender cake with lightly crisp edges, warm cinnamon-apple notes, and a soft, moist center—all without heating up your entire kitchen!

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time (Air Fryer): 25–30 minutes at 320°F (160°C)

Cooling Time: 10–15 minutes

Total Time: ~1 hour

Ingredients

For the Cake:

2 medium apples (firm, tart like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and thinly sliced

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking powder

¼ tsp salt

½ tsp ground cinnamon

⅛ tsp ground cardamom (optional but traditional)

½ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

½ cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

2 tbsp milk (or plant-based milk)

Optional Topping:

1 tbsp sugar + ½ tsp cinnamon (for sprinkling before baking)

Powdered sugar (for dusting after baking)

Instructions

Prep Air Fryer & Pan

Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for about 3–5 minutes.

Line a 6-inch round cake pan (or any air fryer-safe baking dish that fits) with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides.

See also  Air Fryer Buffalo Oyster Crackers

 Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

Flour

Baking powder

Salt

Cinnamon

Cardamom (if using)

 Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, whisk:

Melted butter

Sugar

Eggs

Vanilla

Milk

 Combine

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until smooth—don’t overmix.

Pour batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth the top.

 Add Apples

Arrange apple slices on top of the batter in a circular pattern (slightly press into the batter).

Optionally, sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar topping.

 Air Fry

Carefully place the pan in the air fryer basket.

Bake at 320°F (160°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Check at 20 minutes and tent with foil if top is browning too quickly.

 Cool & Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes.

Gently remove from the pan and dust with powdered sugar.

Serve warm with whipped cream, ice cream, or vanilla sauce.

Tips & Tricks

Use tart apples like Granny Smith for the best contrast in sweetness.

Don’t skip the cardamom if you want that authentic Swedish touch—it adds a beautiful floral spice.

No parchment? Just butter and flour the pan well.

Check early: Air fryers vary! Test with a toothpick around 23–25 minutes.

Want extra moisture? Add a spoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the batter.

For crunch: Add sliced almonds or chopped walnuts on top before baking.