Swedish Nut Cake has been a family favorite for years, bringing a comforting sweetness to our gatherings. I remember the first time I tried a slice of this nutty Swedish cake at a friend’s house; the combination of moist cake, crunchy nuts, and that tangy cream cheese frosting was pure magic. It’s a simple yet elegant dessert, and I’ve been making this Swedish nut cake recipe regularly ever since. The aroma that fills the kitchen while it bakes is absolutely divine, a true testament to its traditional roots. Let’s get baking this delightful Swedish cake with nuts!
Why You’ll Love This Nutty Swedish Cake
Get ready to fall in love with this fantastic dessert! Here’s why this Swedish cake with nuts is a must-try:
- It’s incredibly moist and tender.
- The cream cheese frosting adds a wonderful tangy sweetness.
- It’s surprisingly easy to make, even for beginners.
- The nutty texture is absolutely delightful.
- This Swedish cake with nuts is perfect for any occasion.
- It tastes even better the next day, making it great for make-ahead entertaining.
- The simple ingredients come together for a truly delicious result.
- It’s a crowd-pleasing dessert that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Essential Swedish Nut Cake Ingredients
Gathering the right Swedish nut cake ingredients is the first step to a perfect bake. This recipe calls for simple pantry staples that create a wonderfully moist and flavorful cake, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting.
- 2 eggs – the base for binding the cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – provides structure
- 2 cups granulated sugar – for sweetness and moisture
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda – our leavening agent
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – adds warmth and depth
- 2/3 cup chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts) – for that signature nutty crunch
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, with juice – this is key for the cake’s incredible moistness and a hint of tang
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened – essential for a smooth, creamy frosting
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) butter, softened – makes the frosting rich
- 2 cups powdered sugar – to sweeten and thicken the frosting
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for frosting) – enhances the frosting’s flavor
- 2/3 cup chopped nuts (for topping) – for a beautiful finish and extra texture
How to Make Swedish Nut Cake
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish. This simple preparation ensures your Swedish Nut Cake releases cleanly after baking.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the 2 eggs, 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 cups granulated sugar, 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2/3 cup chopped nuts, and the 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, with juice. Stir everything together by hand until the batter is well combined. It will be thick and may have lumps; this is normal for this Swedish Nut Cake and is a key characteristic of how to make Swedish nut cake.
- Step 3: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. The batter will be quite thick, almost like a dense batter, but trust the process.
- Step 4: Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. You’ll start to smell that wonderful nutty, sweet aroma filling your kitchen around the 25-minute mark.
- Step 5: Allow the Swedish Nut Cake to cool completely in the pan before frosting. This is crucial; frosting a warm cake will cause the frosting to melt and slide right off. Patience is key here!
- Step 6: While the cake cools, prepare the frosting. In a separate bowl, beat the softened 8 oz cream cheese and 1 stick (1/2 cup) butter together until they are smooth and creamy. This creates the luscious base for our tangy topping.
- Step 7: Add the 2 cups powdered sugar and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Beat again until the frosting is smooth and well combined. The consistency should be spreadable but not too runny.
- Step 8: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Use an offset spatula for a smooth finish.
- Step 9: Sprinkle the remaining 2/3 cup chopped nuts over the frosting for added texture and visual appeal. This final touch really elevates the presentation of your Swedish Nut Cake. Following these steps is essential for how to make Swedish nut cake successfully.
- Step 10: Slice and serve your delicious Swedish Nut Cake. Enjoy this delightful nut cake from Sweden!
Pro Tips for the Best Swedish Nut Cake
Want to elevate your baking game for this classic dessert? Follow these insider tips for the most delicious Swedish Nut Cake:
- Don’t overmix the batter. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to a tougher cake. Mix until just combined.
- Ensure your cream cheese and butter are truly softened for the frosting. This makes it much easier to achieve a smooth, lump-free consistency.
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting. This is crucial for the frosting to set properly and prevent it from melting.
- For an extra moist cake, consider adding a tablespoon of honey to the batter. It complements the nuts beautifully.
What’s the secret to a perfect Swedish Nut Cake?
The real secret to a perfect Swedish Nut Cake lies in the crushed pineapple and its juice. It acts as a natural tenderizer and adds incredible moisture, making it an easy Swedish nut cake to get right. For more baking tips, you can explore resources on the science of baking.
Can I make this Swedish nut torte ahead of time?
Absolutely! This Swedish nut torte is actually better made a day in advance. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, and the cake stays wonderfully moist. Just store it covered at room temperature. If you’re looking for other make-ahead desserts, consider these dessert recipes.
How do I avoid common mistakes with this Swedish cake with nuts?
A common pitfall is frosting the cake while it’s still warm, which melts the frosting. Also, ensure your leavening agent (baking soda) is fresh for a good rise. Finally, don’t be alarmed by the thick batter; it’s characteristic of this delightful Swedish cake with nuts.
Best Ways to Serve Swedish Almond Cake
Serving this delightful Swedish Almond Cake is all about enhancing its natural flavors. Here are a few of my favorite ways to present this lovely Swedish dessert nut cake:
- Simply classic: Enjoy a generous slice as is. The cake’s inherent sweetness and nutty crunch, paired with the tangy cream cheese frosting, are perfect on their own.
- With a dollop of cream: A spoonful of lightly sweetened whipped cream or a small dollop of crème fraîche adds an extra layer of richness and tang that complements the cake beautifully. For a similar creamy experience, try these homemade ice cream recipes.
- Alongside coffee or tea: This cake is a natural partner for your favorite hot beverage. A warm cup of coffee or a fragrant cup of tea makes for a cozy and satisfying treat, especially for a Swedish coffee nut cake experience.
Nutrition Facts for Swedish Nut Cake
Let’s look at the nutritional breakdown for a slice of this delicious Swedish Nut Cake. Remember, these are approximate values as the exact numbers can vary slightly based on your specific ingredients and portion size.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: Moderate
- Saturated Fat: Moderate
- Protein: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: High
- Fiber: Low
- Sugar: High
- Sodium: Moderate
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Swedish Nut Cake
Properly storing your Swedish Nut Cake ensures it stays delicious for days. Once your cake has completely cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. This is a key step in keeping this Swedish nut cake recipe fresh. Stored this way in the refrigerator, the cake will stay wonderfully moist and flavorful for about 3 to 4 days. If you won’t finish it within that time, freezing is a fantastic option. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. For a warm treat, you can gently reheat a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. It brings back that fresh-baked warmth and makes the frosting wonderfully gooey!
Frequently Asked Questions About Swedish Nut Cake
What is Swedish nut cake?
A Swedish nut cake is a delightful dessert originating from Sweden, known for its moist, sweet crumb and often featuring a rich, nutty flavor profile. This particular nut cake from Sweden is celebrated for its tender texture, enhanced by crushed pineapple, and is typically finished with a tangy cream cheese frosting and a generous topping of chopped nuts.
Can I substitute the nuts in this Swedish cake with nuts?
Yes, you absolutely can! While this Swedish cake with nuts traditionally uses pecans or walnuts, feel free to experiment with other nuts like almonds, hazelnuts, or even macadamia nuts. If you’re looking for a nut-free option, you can omit the nuts altogether, or try using seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a different kind of crunch. For other creative baking ideas, check out these baby lemon impossible pies.
How do I make this Swedish nut cake recipe dairy-free?
To make this Swedish nut cake recipe dairy-free, you’ll need to make a few substitutions. For the cake, ensure your crushed pineapple is dairy-free. For the frosting, use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and a plant-based butter substitute. You might also need to adjust the powdered sugar slightly as dairy-free frosting can sometimes have a different consistency. The result will still be a delicious, moist cake!
Is this a traditional Swedish holiday nut cake?
While this recipe is a wonderful example of a Swedish nut cake, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round. Many traditional Swedish holiday desserts have specific spices or fruits, but the moist, nutty character of this cake makes it a welcome addition to any festive table. It’s a perfect example of a comforting Swedish festive nut cake.
Variations of Swedish Nut Cake You Can Try
This classic Swedish Nut Cake is wonderfully adaptable, and I love exploring different Swedish nut cake variations. Whether you’re looking for dietary adjustments or just a new flavor twist, there’s something for everyone. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Spiced Swedish Nut Cake: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the dry ingredients for a warm, comforting spice profile. This is perfect for a Swedish coffee nut cake.
- Coconut-Pineapple Twist: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded sweetened coconut along with the crushed pineapple for an extra tropical flair. This variation leans into a delightful Swedish dessert nut cake vibe.
- Gluten-Free Swedish Nut Cake: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a good quality gluten-free all-purpose baking blend. You might need to adjust the baking time slightly, so keep an eye on it.
- Mini Swedish Nut Tortes: Bake the batter in muffin tins for about 18-22 minutes. These make for adorable individual portions and are great for parties or bake sales. Consider pairing them with cranberry feta pinwheels for a party spread.
Swedish Nut Cake: The 1 Recipe You Need
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 12-16 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A moist and sweet Swedish Nut Cake with a tangy cream cheese frosting, perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-make cake is a crowd-pleaser that tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2/3 cup chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts)
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, with juice
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for frosting)
- 2/3 cup chopped nuts (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the eggs, flour, sugar, baking soda, vanilla extract, 2/3 cup chopped nuts, and the crushed pineapple with its juice. Stir everything together by hand until the batter is well combined. It will be thick and may have lumps; this is normal for this Swedish Nut Cake.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Allow the Swedish Nut Cake to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
- While the cake cools, prepare the frosting. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until they are smooth and creamy.
- Add the powdered sugar and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Beat again until the frosting is smooth and well combined.
- Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
- Sprinkle the remaining 2/3 cup of chopped nuts over the frosting for added texture and visual appeal.
- Slice and serve your delicious Swedish Nut Cake.
Notes
- For a nut-free version of this Swedish cake, simply omit the chopped nuts from both the batter and the topping.
- You can add shredded coconut or a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for variations on this Swedish nut cake.
- This cake can also be made into cupcakes; bake in muffin tins for 18-22 minutes.
- Store the Swedish Nut Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Reheat a slice in the microwave for 15 seconds for a warm, gooey treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Scandinavian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Sugar: High
- Sodium: Moderate
- Fat: Moderate
- Saturated Fat: Moderate
- Unsaturated Fat: Moderate
- Trans Fat: Low
- Carbohydrates: High
- Fiber: Low
- Protein: Moderate
- Cholesterol: Moderate