Finnish Apple Cake (Omenakakku) – My Mom’s Recipe
This is my mom’s cherished apple cake recipe, a family tradition that fills the kitchen with warmth and the scent of spices. Tart apples, fragrant cardamom, and a touch of cinnamon create a flavor that reminds me of cinnamon rolls—comforting, nostalgic, and absolutely delicious. Perfect served with vanilla ice cream or custard, this cake is a moist, timeless treat that brings everyone together.
Ingredients
- 200 g 7 oz butter + 1 tbsp for greasing
- 2.5 dl 1 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 4.5 dl 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1.5 tsp baking powder
- 2 tsp vanilla sugar (or 1 tsp vanilla extract)
- 1.5 tsp ground cardamom
- 600 g about 1.3 lbs tart apples
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp grated lemon zest
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp fine breadcrumbs for greasing the pan
- 1-2 tbsp maple syrup
Instructions
Prepare the pan:
- Grease and lightly dust a smooth, preferably springform cake pan with butter and breadcrumbs. Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F).
Prepare the Apples:
- Peel and slice the apples, removing the cores. Toss them with 1 tsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp cinnamon, and 3 tbsp sugar. Set aside.
Make the Batter:
- In a medium bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, vanilla sugar, and cardamom.
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until pale, light, and fluffy. Add the lemon zest.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients and stir until smooth.
Assemble the Cake:
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Layer the apple slices on top in an overlapping pattern, gently pressing the slices slightly into the batter.
Bake:
- Bake at 350°F (175 °C) for 45–50 minutes. If the top browns too quickly, cover the cake loosely with parchment paper. Check doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center.
Finishing Touch:
- Let the cake cool slightly in the pan, then remove it and allow it to come to room temperature.
- Brush the apples on top with 1–2 tbsp maple syrup to add moistness, sweetness, and a subtle nutty flavor.
Serve:
- Serve with vanilla ice cream or custard. Every slice is tender, spiced, and full of cinnamon-roll–like goodness.
Notes
- Delicious served warm or enjoyed cold—perfect for any time of day.
- Serve with vanilla ice cream or my creamy vanilla custard sauce for a decadent treat.
- Tart apples work best for a balanced flavor, but you can try sweet or mixed varieties for a different twist.
- Leftovers keep well at room temperature for 1–2 days or in the fridge for up to 4 days.