Äppelpaj: the Swedish apple pie, between sweetness and Nordic tradition

Origin
Äppelpaj is the Swedish version of apple pie, a traditional dessert deeply rooted in Scandinavian culinary culture. The word äppelpaj simply means “apple pie” in Swedish. This pastry is a staple for family or friends’ gatherings and afternoon teas in Sweden.

History and Evolution
Apple pie is popular throughout Europe, but in Sweden, äppelpaj stands out for its simplicity and rustic character, inherited from peasant recipes that favored local and accessible ingredients. Its popularity dates back several centuries, when apples, grown in Nordic orchards, were an essential part of the Swedish diet.

Traditionally, äppelpaj is made with a crumbly dough, similar to shortcrust or crumble, giving it a texture that is both crisp and tender. This dough is very different from the dense, buttery Dutch Appeltaart or the thin Austrian strudel pastry. This characteristic reflects the Swedish preference for lighter, less fatty desserts.

Tradition
In Sweden, äppelpaj is often served warm, accompanied by whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a vanilla sauce called vaniljsås. It is very popular in autumn, during the apple harvest, but enjoyed throughout the year.

This dessert is typically homemade, during family gatherings, celebrations, or relaxing moments, symbolizing warmth and sharing. Its simple recipe makes it an accessible classic that can be adapted to taste, with optional additions like nuts, cinnamon, or ginger.

Traditional Swedish Äppelpaj Recipe

Ingredients
For the crumble dough:

• 150 g flour

• 100 g cold butter, diced

• 100 g sugar

• 1 tsp cinnamon (optional)

For the filling:

• 6 tart apples (Granny Smith or Åkerö, Swedish variety)

• 50 g sugar

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• Juice of half a lemon

Preparation

Prepare the filling:

1. Peel, core, and cut the apples into pieces. Mix with sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon.

Prepare the crumble dough:

1. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and cinnamon. Add cold butter and work with your fingers until a sandy texture with small lumps forms.

Assemble the pie:

1. Preheat the oven to 180 °C. Grease a tart pan or baking dish.

2. Place the apples in the pan and evenly sprinkle the crumble on top.

Bake:

1. Bake for 30–40 minutes until the top is golden and crisp, and the apples are tender.

Serve:

1. Serve warm with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or vaniljsås.

Äppelpaj thus embodies the warm simplicity of Swedish desserts, perfect to finish a meal sweetly or accompany coffee. Its crisp texture and delicately spiced flavor make it a dessert enjoyed by all.