Swedish Nut Cake

Darlings, let me tell you — this cake is like a warm hug in dessert form! It’s humble, it’s hearty, and it has just the right amount of old-fashioned charm to make anyone feel instantly at home. Swedish Nut Cake has that glorious, slightly rustic appeal that doesn’t shout for attention but wins hearts with every bite. We’re talking tender cake speckled with nuts, kissed with the sweet tang of pineapple, and finished with a rich, dreamy cream cheese frosting. Doesn’t that just sound like something you want to curl up with?

Now, after spending over a decade in both professional kitchens and homey little baking nooks, I can tell you this with confidence: the best recipes are the ones that bring people together — and this one does just that. It reminds me of Sundays with family, quiet smiles across the table, and that sacred moment when the first bite makes everyone go quiet. Ahhh… that’s the good stuff!

And here’s the real kicker: you don’t even need a mixer! Just grab a bowl and a spoon — yes, just like in the good old days — and let’s make something truly special.

Why This Recipe Will Steal Your Heart

• No-fuss, full flavor: It all comes together in one bowl. No gadgets, no gizmos, no stress.
• Incredibly moist: Thank you, lovely pineapple, for making every bite tender and juicy.
• Crowd favorite: This one vanishes at potlucks — blink and it’s gone!
• Perfect to make ahead: Like a fine wine, it gets even better the next day.

Swedish Nut Cake Recipe

Prep & Cook Info:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Bake Time: 30–35 minutes
• Serves: 12–16 (depending on your generosity!)
• Equipment: Mixing bowl, spoon or whisk, 9×13-inch baking dish, hand mixer (optional for frosting)

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2/3 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts are divine!)
• 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple (juice and all — don’t you dare drain it!)

For the Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 stick (1/2 cup) butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Topping:

• 2/3 cup chopped nuts (toasted if you’re feeling fancy — and you should!)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment if you want to lift the cake out easily later (I do love a good parchment sling!).
2. In a large bowl, combine all the cake ingredients. Yes, all of them! Stir with gusto until the batter is thick and lumpy. Don’t worry — lumpy is lovely here.
3. Pour that glorious batter into your prepared dish and smooth it out a bit. Pop it in the oven for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. While the cake cools (the hardest part, really), whip up your frosting: beat the cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth. Slowly add the powdered sugar and vanilla. Beat until it’s luscious and spreadable.
5. Once the cake has cooled completely — patience, my dear! — spread the frosting generously over the top. No skimping!
6. Sprinkle with your chopped nuts (and do toast them first, if you’ve got a few minutes — it adds such a marvelous depth).
7. Slice, serve, and enjoy a bite of nostalgic, nutty, pineapple-kissed comfort.

Topping Twists (if you’re feeling playful):

• Toasted coconut flakes for crunch and flair
• A drizzle of maple syrup or caramel sauce (oh my!)
• A scattering of chopped dried pineapple or golden raisins
• A dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg — just a pinch!

Serving Suggestions:

• Slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream — dreamy!
• Add fresh berries for a pop of color and brightness
• Serve it chilled straight from the fridge — divine with coffee
• Pair with a cup of spiced tea and a cozy blanket

Pro Tips

Before tossing your nuts into the batter or on top of the cake, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes.

The fragrance! The crunch! This tiny step adds an incredible, nutty depth that makes your cake not just good — but unforgettable.

These invisible flourishes, my friend, are the magic behind memorable bakes.

Happy baking — and don’t forget to lick the spoon!

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