Norwegian Apple Cake
Norwegian Apple Cake is a moist, spiced dessert featuring tender apples and warm cinnamon and nutmeg flavors. Its buttery crumb and sweet glaze make it perfect for cozy gatherings or afternoon tea, offering a delightful combination of fruitiness and spice that appeals to dessert lovers of all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the butter.
- Add sugar and blend well.
- Add eggs and blend well.
- Sift together the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Add the dry mixture to the butter and sugar mixture; stir until combined. The batter will be stiff.
- Add the sliced and chopped apples to the batter and fold in gently.
- Pour the batter into a greased 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Drizzle with powdered sugar to make it special.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using browned butter instead of regular butter. If you prefer, substitute half the apples with pears for a different twist. To enhance the spice, add a touch of clove or cardamom. Ensure to slice the apples thinly for even baking, and if they're particularly tart, adjust the sugar accordingly for balance. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful finish.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delicious on its own but can be served with a dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. It also pairs beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee. For a lighter option, serve alongside Huckleberry Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake, which can last up to a week. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Norwegian Apple Cake contains roughly 348 calories, with 6g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1457mg per serving (63% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are a popular choice for their tartness, you can use any variety you prefer, such as Honeycrisp or Fuji. Just keep in mind that sweeter apples may require slightly less sugar in the batter.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Make sure it contains xanthan gum or add it separately to ensure proper texture and rise. The baking time may remain similar, but keep an eye on the cake as it bakes.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this Norwegian Apple Cake dairy-free, substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil. Ensure that the sugar used is refined and free from bone char, and you can enjoy a delicious dairy-free version of this cake without compromising on flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).