Swedish Nut Cake Recipe: A Comforting Classic

Looking for a cozy and indulgent dessert, you’ve come to the right place Swedish Nut Cake Recipe. I love sharing recipes that bring warmth to any occasion, and the Swedish Nut Cake is one of my favorites.

This cake combines rich nuts, sweet pineapple, and creamy frosting, creating a perfectly balanced treat. It’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

The Swedish Nut Cake recipe has been in my family for years, and I’m excited to share it with you today. New to baking or an expert, this cake will become a staple in your dessert rotation!

How To Prepare Swedish Nut Cake Recipe

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: Swedish-American

Difficulty: Easy

Yield: 12 servings​

Kitchen Utensils Needed

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sifter (for powdered sugar)
• Spatula​

Ingredients Lists

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1½ teaspoons baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2/3 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple with juice​

For the Frosting:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (for garnish)​

How To Make Swedish Nut Cake Recipe

1. Prepare the Cake Batter

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
• Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and the entire can of crushed pineapple (with juice) to the dry ingredients.
• Mix until well combined.
• Fold in the chopped nuts.​

2. Bake the Cake

• Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
• Bake for 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool slightly.​

3. Prepare the Frosting

• In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
• Add the vanilla extract and powdered sugar, and continue to beat until the frosting is light and fluffy

4. Frost the Cake

• Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the warm cake.
• Sprinkle the chopped nuts over the frosting for added texture and flavor.​

Notes

1. Don’t drain the pineapple – The juice adds essential moisture and sweetness to the cake, so be sure to include it with the crushed pineapple.

2. Frost the cake while slightly warm – Spreading the cream cheese frosting on a warm cake helps it melt just enough to soak in slightly, creating a rich, flavorful topping.

3. Use fresh, quality nuts – Stale or bitter nuts can ruin the flavor. Always taste your nuts before adding them, and toast them lightly for extra depth.

Nutrition Facts Swedish Nut Cake Recipe

Calories: 256

Total Fat: 11g (14% DV)

Saturated Fat: 5g (25% DV)

Cholesterol: 36mg (12% DV)

Sodium: 166mg (7% DV)

Total Carbohydrate: 38g (14% DV)

Dietary Fiber: 1g (3% DV)

Sugars: 29g

Protein: 3g (6% DV)

Vitamin C: 2mg (3% DV)

Calcium: 21mg (2% DV)

Iron: 1mg (5% DV)​

Why Make You Swedish Nut Cake Recipe?

I make my Swedish Nut Cake Recipe because it’s simple, nostalgic, and full of comforting flavor.

It combines the natural sweetness of pineapple with the crunch of toasted nuts and a rich cream cheese frosting. Every bite feels like home.

I love that it doesn’t require fancy ingredients or techniques—just real, honest baking that always delivers.

Whether I need a quick dessert for guests or just want something sweet with my coffee, this cake never disappoints.

Amazing Serving Ideas

I love serving Swedish Nut Cake Recipe slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—it melts into the frosting and creates the most comforting bite.

For a more elegant touch, I sometimes add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or toasted coconut. During the holidays, I garnish it with candied pecans and a drizzle of caramel sauce.

It also pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or spiced tea, making it a perfect dessert for cozy afternoons or casual gatherings. No matter how you serve it, this cake always steals the spotlight.

Tips And Variations

Tips:

1. Use room temperature ingredients – This helps everything mix more smoothly and evenly.

2. Don’t overmix the batter – Stir just until combined to keep the cake light and tender.

3. Toast the nuts – Lightly toasting the nuts before adding them boosts their flavor and crunch.

4. Let it cool slightly before frosting – Frosting a warm cake allows it to soak in just a bit for a richer bite.

5. Store properly – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Variations:

1. Gluten-Free – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly version.

2. Spiced Version – Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice to give it a cozy, holiday feel.

3. Fruit Swap – Try crushed mango or pear instead of pineapple for a twist.

4. Frosting-Free – Skip the frosting and dust with powdered sugar for a lighter option.

5. Cupcake Style – Bake the batter in muffin tins for portable mini versions perfect for parties.

How To Store The Finished Cake

To store the finished Swedish Nut Cake Recipe, I let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.

If I plan to eat it within two days, I keep it at room temperature in a cool spot. For longer storage, I refrigerate it for up to five days to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh.

When I want to save some for later, I freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic and store them in a freezer-safe bag. A quick thaw in the fridge makes them taste just as good as fresh.

Health Benefits

While Swedish Nut Cake Recipe is a dessert, it does offer a few wholesome benefits thanks to its key ingredients:

1. Pineapple – Packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, pineapple supports immune health and aids digestion with natural enzymes like bromelain.

2. Nuts – Pecans or walnuts are rich in healthy fats, fiber, and plant-based protein. They help support heart health and provide long-lasting energy.

3. Eggs – A good source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients like choline, which supports brain function.

4. Moderation-Friendly – Because this cake is flavorful and satisfying, a small portion can satisfy your sweet tooth without overindulgence.

Can I Make Swedish Nut Cake Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can! This cake actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can bake it a day ahead, store it in an airtight container, and frost it when you’re ready to serve.

Can I Substitute The Nuts In This Recipe?

Absolutely! While pecans and walnuts are traditional, you can use almonds, hazelnuts, or any other nut of your choice. Just chop them up to your desired size and fold them into the batter.

Is It Possible To Make This Cake Gluten-Free?

Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.

Can I Make This Recipe Without Frosting?

Of course! If you prefer a lighter version, you can skip the frosting and simply dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar. It’s still a delightful treat.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

To keep the cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate it for up to 5 days. You can also freeze individual slices for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

The Swedish Nut Cake Recipe is a comforting and delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Its combination of moist cake, sweet pineapple, and creamy frosting creates a delightful treat everyone will love.

Baking it for a family gathering, a special celebration, or just because, this cake is sure to impress. I personally find it’s the kind of dessert that brings people together.

I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do, and that it becomes a new favorite in your baking repertoire. Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite!