How long can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I use frozen sea buckthorn berries?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before use to ensure even cooking.

Can I substitute another fruit for apples?

Pears or peaches can be wonderful alternatives that complement the cardamom as well.

Is there a dairy-free version?

Substitute the buttermilk with almond milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice, and use dairy-free butter.

How can I reheat the cake?

Warm individual slices in the microwave for about 20 seconds for a fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.

Swedish Cardamom-Infused Apple Havtorn Cake

Name: Swedish Cardamom-Infused Apple Havtorn Cake
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Dessert
Ingredients: all-purpose flour; granulated sugar; baking powder; baking soda; salt; ground cardamom; unsalted butter, melted; buttermilk; large eggs; apples, peeled, cored, and sliced; brown sugar; cinnamon; sea buckthorn berries; granulated sugar; water; powdered sugar; milk; ground cardamom

A fragrant dessert blending apples and sea buckthorn with warm spices

This Swedish-inspired cake combines the unique tang of havtorn (sea buckthorn) with sweet apples and aromatic cardamom, perfect for a cozy gathering.

1 h 30 min
8
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Cake Batter

all-purpose flour

2 cups

granulated sugar

1 cup

baking powder

1 tsp

baking soda

1/2 tsp

salt

1/2 tsp

ground cardamom

1 tsp

unsalted butter, melted

1/2 cup

buttermilk

1 cup

large eggs

For the Apple Mixture

apples, peeled, cored, and sliced

3 medium

brown sugar

2 tbsp

cinnamon

1 tsp

For the Havtorn Topping

sea buckthorn berries

1 cup, fresh or frozen

granulated sugar

1/4 cup

water

1 tbsp

For the Cardamom Glaze

powdered sugar

1/2 cup

milk

1-2 tbsp

ground cardamom

1/2 tsp

Preparation

Preparing the Apple Mixture

Combine ingredients

Combine sliced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl.

Toss apples

Toss until apples are well-coated.

Set aside

Set aside while you prepare the cake batter.

Making the Cake Batter

Preheat oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

Mix dry ingredients

In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cardamom.

Combine wet ingredients

Add melted butter, buttermilk, and eggs; stir until smooth and well-combined.

⚠ Important: Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake tender. 💡 Pro Tip: If the batter looks too thick, add a tablespoon more of buttermilk.

Cooking Process

Assembling the Cake

Pour half of the batter into the prepared cake pan. Layer with the apple mixture, and then spread the remaining batter on top.

Baking the Cake

Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Preparing the Havtorn Topping

In a saucepan, combine sea buckthorn berries, sugar, and water. Simmer for 10 minutes until thickened and remove from heat.

Plating & Serving