Apple pie is a classic that we all know and love, but why settle for the same old, when you can explore a version that’s truly extraordinary? Welcome to the world of Scandinavian Apple Pie—a dessert that embraces simplicity, creativity, and a never-being-boring philosophy. At Swedishness, we’re passionate about redefining the ordinary, and our Scandinavian Apple Pie is a perfect example of how a few thoughtful choices can elevate a humble dish into something unforgettable.

The Scandinavian Twist: Breaking Out of the Mold

Forget the traditional pie pan. One of the secrets to Scandinavian Apple Pie’s unique charm is the freedom to use different containers. Cast iron skillets, deep-dish ramekins, or even rustic ceramic bowls can transform the presentation and cooking process. Each container brings out different textures: the cast iron gives a crisp, caramelized edge, while ceramic holds moisture, creating a softer, more melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Using unconventional containers not only adds a rustic aesthetic but also gives you the flexibility to play with portion sizes, from individual mini pies to a large, family-style bake that invites everyone to dig in.

Scandinavian Spices: Cinnamon and Cardamom – The Soul of the Pie

Spices are the heart and soul of any good pie, and in Scandinavian baking, no spices are more beloved than cinnamon and cardamom. These two fragrant powerhouses bring warmth, depth, and a touch of nostalgia to Scandinavian Apple Pie, transforming it from a simple dessert into a cozy, aromatic experience. Here’s a closer look at the spices that make this pie truly extraordinary:

1. Cinnamon – The Warm Hug of Baking

Cinnamon is the cornerstone of Scandinavian baking, known for its warm, sweet, and slightly woody flavor that instantly evokes feelings of comfort. It’s the spice that wraps the apples in a familiar embrace, turning each bite into a cozy, heartwarming moment. In Scandinavian Apple Pie, cinnamon isn’t just sprinkled on top; it’s infused throughout the filling, mingling with the apples to create that classic, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen.

Cinnamon’s versatility makes it a favorite in everything from buns (kanelbullar) to cakes, but it’s particularly at home in apple desserts. It enhances the natural sweetness of the fruit without overpowering it, adding a depth that feels both nostalgic and timeless. A dash of cinnamon sugar on the crust or topping before baking adds a touch of caramelization, giving the pie a beautiful golden finish.

2. Cardamom – The Scandinavian Secret Spice

While cinnamon brings warmth, it’s cardamom that adds the unmistakable Scandinavian twist. Often described as slightly citrusy, floral, and peppery, cardamom is the spice that sets Scandinavian Apple Pie apart from its more traditional counterparts. It adds a complex, aromatic layer that elevates the entire flavor profile of the pie.

In Scandinavian baking, cardamom is a cherished spice, found in everything from the beloved kanelbullar (cinnamon buns) to festive holiday breads. Its slightly exotic flavor brings an unexpected twist to apple pie, enhancing the sweetness of the apples and complementing the richness of cinnamon. Cardamom pods can be ground fresh for a more intense flavor, or you can use pre-ground cardamom for convenience.

Adding just a pinch of cardamom to your apple filling will infuse the pie with a distinctively Scandinavian touch—one that’s sure to surprise and delight anyone who tastes it.

3. Cloves – A Touch of Boldness

Though used sparingly, cloves can add a hint of boldness and a touch of warmth that deepens the overall flavor of the pie. Ground cloves have a strong, aromatic quality with a slightly bitter edge, which works beautifully in small amounts. When paired with cinnamon and cardamom, cloves add a layer of complexity and a subtle spice that lingers on the palate.

Cloves are a common spice in Scandinavian holiday baking, adding that recognizable “winter warmth” to many desserts. A pinch in the apple pie filling can bring a festive feel to the pie, making it perfect for colder months.

4. Nutmeg – The Gentle Companion

Nutmeg offers a sweet, nutty flavor with a hint of spiciness, making it a gentle yet essential companion to cinnamon and cardamom. Nutmeg’s subtle warmth works well with apples, enhancing their natural sweetness without being overpowering. It’s often used to round out the spice blend, adding depth without stealing the show.

For a classic Scandinavian Apple Pie, a touch of freshly grated nutmeg can elevate the filling, creating a flavor that feels rich and well-rounded. Its delicate spice profile makes it an ideal choice for those who appreciate complexity without overwhelming heat.

Texture is where Scandinavian Apple Pie truly shines, combining a delightful mix of softness, crunch, and everything in between. Unlike the traditional flaky crusts of American apple pies, the Scandinavian version embraces a more rustic and hearty approach. The pie often features a buttery, crumbly topping or a simple batter-like crust that hugs the apples just right, creating an interplay of textures that keeps each bite interesting.

1. Oats (Havregryn): A quintessential Scandinavian touch, oats add a rustic feel and a chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the apples. When combined with butter, sugar, and a hint of cinnamon, the oats crisp up in the oven, creating a golden, crunchy topping that’s both hearty and comforting. The oats not only enhance the texture but also give the pie a wholesome touch, making it feel both indulgent and nourishing.

2. Almonds (Mandel): Adding sliced or chopped almonds to the topping brings a subtle nuttiness and a satisfying crunch. Almonds are a classic ingredient in Scandinavian baking, often used in everything from cookies to cakes, and they pair perfectly with the spiced apple filling. For an even more distinctive touch, you can use slivered almonds or roughly chopped whole almonds to add both flavor and a delightful textural contrast. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using almond flour in the crust or topping for a hint of marzipan-like sweetness.

3. Hazelnuts: Another nut that’s often seen in Scandinavian desserts, hazelnuts bring a rich, buttery crunch that complements the spices and apples. Lightly toast them before adding to the topping to enhance their flavor. Hazelnuts add a depth of flavor and a bit of extra texture that makes each bite of the pie uniquely satisfying.

4. Coconut Flakes: While not traditionally Scandinavian, adding a sprinkle of unsweetened coconut flakes can give the pie an unexpected twist. The coconut adds a light, crisp texture and a subtle tropical note that plays well with the warm spices. It’s a simple way to give your pie a unique edge without straying too far from the core flavors.

5. Rye Flour: For an even more rustic touch, consider incorporating a bit of rye flour into your pie topping or crust. Rye is a staple grain in Scandinavian baking and adds an earthy, slightly nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the apples and spices. The texture is slightly denser than regular flour, giving the pie a heartier feel.

6. Sugar Pearls (Pärlsocker): For that quintessential Scandinavian crunch, sprinkle sugar pearls on top before baking. Commonly seen on cinnamon buns, these sugar pearls don’t melt in the oven, leaving you with a beautiful, sweet crunch on top of your pie. It’s a small addition that makes a big impact, both visually and texturally.

7. Seeds (Pumpkin or Sunflower Seeds): For an added crunch and a bit of Scandinavian flair, try adding pumpkin or sunflower seeds to the topping. These seeds add an extra layer of texture and a hint of nuttiness that pairs beautifully with the spices. They also add a touch of color and visual appeal, making the pie look even more inviting.

The choice of apple is crucial when making Scandinavian Apple Pie. It’s not just about any apple; it’s about selecting the right variety that brings the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and sweetness to your pie. Different apples offer unique characteristics, from tartness to crispness, which can dramatically influence the taste and feel of the pie. Here are five common apple varieties that are excellent choices for Scandinavian Apple Pie and why each one stands out:

1. Granny Smith – The Classic Tart Choice

Granny Smith apples are the go-to for many apple pie recipes, and for good reason. Their bright green skin and crisp texture make them instantly recognizable. The tartness of Granny Smith apples balances beautifully with the sweetness of the pie’s filling and topping, providing a sharp contrast that keeps the dessert from becoming overly sweet.

These apples hold their shape well during baking, maintaining a pleasant bite rather than turning mushy. Their firm texture ensures that each slice of pie is packed with distinct apple pieces that offer a nice resistance when you bite into them. If you love a pie with a bit of tang and a firm texture, Granny Smith is a perfect choice.

2. Honeycrisp – The Sweet and Juicy All-Rounder

Honeycrisp apples are known for their exceptional crunch and juicy, sweet-tart flavor, making them a favorite for eating fresh and baking alike. With a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, Honeycrisp apples add a light, crisp bite to your pie, making each mouthful juicy and flavorful.

Their flesh holds up well in the oven, softening slightly while still maintaining its signature crunch. If you’re looking for an apple that provides a sweet contrast to spices like cinnamon and cardamom, Honeycrisp is your best bet. Plus, their natural sweetness allows you to use less added sugar, letting the true apple flavor shine through.

3. Pink Lady – The Sweet-Tart with a Floral Twist

Pink Lady apples, also known as Cripps Pink, bring a unique sweet-tart flavor profile with a slightly floral note that pairs beautifully with the warm spices of a Scandinavian Apple Pie. These apples are known for their firm, crisp texture and a vibrant pinkish-red skin that adds a touch of visual appeal when used in desserts.

Pink Lady apples hold up well during baking, staying firm but tender. Their nuanced flavor adds depth to the pie, and their natural balance of sweetness and acidity enhances the spices, making the overall flavor profile more complex and interesting. They are perfect if you’re looking for an apple that brings a little extra character to the pie.

4. Braeburn – The Balanced Baker’s Favorite

Braeburn apples are a great all-around apple for baking due to their balanced flavor and firm texture. They have a sweet, spiced taste with a hint of pear and cinnamon, which complements the spices used in Scandinavian Apple Pie. The skin of the Braeburn is red and yellow, adding a rustic touch when visible in the pie.

Braeburn apples are slightly less tart than Granny Smith but still offer a good balance of sweetness and acidity, making them a versatile choice for any pie recipe. They hold their shape nicely during baking, ensuring the filling is neither too soft nor too firm. Braeburn is a reliable option if you’re looking for an apple that’s consistently flavorful and bakes beautifully.

5. Jonagold – The Sweet and Tangy Treat

Jonagold apples combine the best of two worlds: the sweet, juicy taste of Golden Delicious and the tart bite of Jonathan apples. This hybrid is perfect for pie because it offers a honey-like sweetness with a bright, tangy twist. The skin is a beautiful blend of red and yellow, and the flesh is crisp and succulent, making Jonagold an attractive and delicious choice for Scandinavian Apple Pie.

Jonagolds have a more delicate texture compared to Granny Smith or Braeburn, softening beautifully in the oven without becoming overly mushy. Their complex flavor profile adds layers of sweetness and a hint of tartness, enhancing the spices and creating a balanced, delightful pie.

What really matters is don't be afraid to mix and experiment with the things you really like. Choose the texture, the sweetener, the toping, the apple or mix of apples, how to serve it, where to serve and finally with whom - Just remember to never be boring...Life is too short!

Next time you make apple pie, will you remember it? At the end, the only things that matter are the things we remember...

Let’s start with the timeless classic—apple pie just as you remember it. With its golden, flaky crust and perfectly spiced apple filling, this pie is the heart of autumn baking. The combination of sweet and tart apples, a dash of cinnamon, and a buttery lattice top makes this pie a favorite at family gatherings and cozy evenings at home.

The beauty of a classic apple pie is in its simplicity. It’s the kind of dessert that’s just as fun to bake as it is to eat, filling your kitchen with the comforting aroma of autumn spices. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you have the ultimate fall dessert.

Tips for the Perfect Classic Apple Pie:
Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor balance—Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices.
Don’t forget the lattice crust! It adds a beautiful, rustic look and lets the apples peek through as they bubble away in the oven.
Sprinkle a little sugar on top of the crust before baking for a nice golden, crispy finish.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:
2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp sugar
1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
6-8 tbsp ice water

For the Filling:
6 medium apples (a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp works best), peeled, cored, and sliced
¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
¼ cup (50g) brown sugar
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp ground nutmeg
¼ tsp ground cloves (optional)
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tbsp butter, cut into small pieces

For the Top:
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
1 tbsp sugar (for sprinkling on top)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough begins to come together. Divide the dough into two equal parts, shape them into discs, and wrap them in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

2. Prepare the Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves (if using), and flour. Toss everything together until the apples are evenly coated. Set aside.

3. Roll Out the Dough:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
On a floured surface, roll out one disc of the dough into a circle large enough to fit into a 9-inch pie dish, with some overhang. Gently press the dough into the pie dish, letting the excess hang over the edges.
Roll out the second disc for the top crust or lattice.

4. Assemble the Pie:
Pour the apple mixture into the pie crust, arranging the apples evenly. Dot the top with the small butter pieces.
Place the second rolled-out dough on top, or create a lattice by cutting strips and weaving them over the apples.
Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal.
Brush the top of the pie with the beaten egg and sprinkle sugar over the crust for extra crunch and sweetness.

5. Bake the Pie:
Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips, and bake for 20 minutes at 200°C (400°F).
After 20 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 180°C (350°F) and bake for another 35–40 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.
If the crust browns too quickly, cover the edges with foil.

6. Cool and Serve:
Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing, letting the filling set.
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate fall treat.

If you love a little extra crunch on top of your apple pie, this apple pie is for you. Unlike the traditional lattice crust, this version is topped with a buttery, cinnamon-sugar crumble that adds an irresistible texture to every bite. The warm, caramelized apples paired with the crunchy topping make this a fall favorite for those who like their pies with a little something extra.

This apple pie is perfect when you want the rich, cozy flavors of apple pie but with an easier topping—no need to worry about making a perfect lattice. Just sprinkle on the crumb topping and watch it turn golden and crispy in the oven!

Tips for the Best Crumble Apple Pie:
Use cold butter when making the crumble for the best texture.
For extra flavor, mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the topping.
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

Ingredients:
For the Crust:
1 ½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour
½ tsp salt
1 tbsp sugar
½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
4-6 tbsp ice water

For the Apple Filling:
6 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
¼ cup (50g) brown sugar
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp ground nutmeg
¼ tsp ground ginger
2 tbsp all-purpose flour

For the Crumb Topping:
1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
½ cup (100g) brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed

Instructions:
1. Make the Crust:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough starts to come together. Shape it into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Prepare the Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and flour. Toss until the apples are evenly coated.

3. Roll Out the Crust:
On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle large enough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Press the dough into the pie dish, leaving the edges untrimmed.

4. Make the Crumb Topping:
In a medium bowl, mix the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend it into the dry ingredients until large crumbs form.

5. Assemble the Pie:
Pour the apple filling into the prepared crust.
Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the apples, making sure the apples are fully covered.

6. Bake the Pie:
Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the filling is bubbling.
If the topping starts to brown too quickly, cover the pie with foil.

7. Cool and Serve:
Let the pie cool for at least 1 hour before slicing. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate fall treat.

If you’re looking for an indulgent twist on the classic apple pie, this Caramel Apple Pie is just the thing. The addition of rich, buttery caramel takes the traditional apple filling to the next level, giving it a sweet, gooey texture that pairs perfectly with the tart apples. This pie is all about indulgence—perfect for those crisp autumn nights when you want to treat yourself to something extra special.The caramel blends with the cinnamon-spiced apples as the pie bakes, creating a dessert that’s both familiar and decadently unique. Serve it warm with a drizzle of extra caramel sauce and a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate fall dessert experience.

Tips for Perfect Caramel Apple Pie:
Make sure to use firm apples like Granny Smith so they don’t get mushy in the caramel sauce.
You can make your own caramel sauce or use store-bought for convenience—it will be delicious either way!
Caramel Apple Pie Recipe

Ingredients:
For the Crust:
1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)

For the Filling:
6 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best), peeled, cored, and sliced
½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
¼ cup (50g) brown sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Caramel Sauce:
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
6 tbsp (85g) unsalted butter
½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
¼ tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Make the Caramel Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, heat the sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it melts and turns a golden amber color.
Add the butter and stir until fully melted. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while continuing to stir. Be careful, as the mixture will bubble up.
Let the sauce simmer for a minute, then remove from heat and stir in the salt. Set aside to cool slightly.

2. Prepare the Crust:
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
Roll out the pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish, crimping or folding the edges as desired.

3. Make the Apple Filling:
In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, and lemon juice until evenly coated.

4. Assemble the Pie:
Spread half of the apple filling in the prepared pie crust.
Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the apples.
Add the remaining apples on top and drizzle the rest of the caramel sauce over them.

5. Add the Top Crust:
Roll out the second pie crust and place it over the filling. You can either make a lattice top or simply cover it with the whole crust, cutting slits for steam to escape.
Brush the top with a beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar for extra crispness.

6. Bake the Pie:
Bake the pie for 20 minutes at 200°C (400°F), then reduce the heat to 180°C (350°F) and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.
Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours to allow the caramel to set.

7. Serve:
Serve warm with a drizzle of extra caramel sauce and a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

If you’re craving the flavors of apple pie but want something a bit more laid-back, the Rustic Apple Galette is the answer. This free-form tart is the epitome of effortless, with all the flavors of apple pie but without the fuss of crimping or latticing. Its charm lies in its simplicity—just a flaky crust folded casually around spiced apple slices, allowing the beauty of the fruit to shine through.

A galette is perfect for those cozy autumn afternoons when you want something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen. The crust bakes to a golden, crispy finish, and the apples become tender and caramelized. Serve it with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate fall treat.

Tips for a Perfect Apple Galette:
Use a mix of apples for a balance of flavors, and don’t be afraid to let the edges of the galette brown for extra crunch.
Brush the crust with an egg wash and sprinkle with sugar for a nice golden finish.
Rustic Apple Galette Recipe

Ingredients:
For the Crust:
1 ¼ cups (150g) all-purpose flour
½ tsp sugar
½ tsp salt
½ cup (115g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
3-4 tbsp ice water

For the Filling:
4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
2 tbsp granulated sugar
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp flour

For the Top:
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
1 tbsp sugar (for sprinkling)

Optional:
Honey or whipped cream for serving

Instructions:
1. Make the Crust:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Filling:
In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and flour. Mix until the apples are evenly coated.

3. Assemble the Galette:
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rough circle about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Arrange the apple slices in the center of the dough, leaving about a 2-inch border around the edges.
Fold the edges of the dough over the apples, overlapping slightly as you go. The center should remain exposed.

4. Finish and Bake:
Brush the folded edges of the dough with the beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar for extra crunch and color.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the apples are tender and caramelized.
Let the galette cool slightly before serving.

5. Serve:
Serve warm with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of sweetness.