This Mary Berry Finnish Apple and Cinnamon Cake is a moist and spiced dessert, which includes Bramley apples and ground cinnamon. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, ready in about 1 hour 45 minutes.
Mary Berry Finnish Apple and Cinnamon Cake Ingredients
- 115g (4oz) baking spread, straight from the fridge
- 115g (4oz) self-raising flour
- 200g (7oz) caster sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 3 large Bramley apples, peeled and chunked (485g/1lb 1oz prepared weight)
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp nibbed sugar or 6 sugar lumps, crushed
How To Make Mary Berry Finnish Apple and Cinnamon Cake
- Preheat and prep tin: Heat oven to 160°C/140°C Fan/Gas 3. Grease a 20cm springform tin.
- Make the batter: Whisk baking spread, flour, 115g of caster sugar, and eggs together until smooth.
- Layer in tin: Spread half the batter into the base and the rest halfway up the sides of the tin.
- Add apple filling: Toss apples with remaining sugar and cinnamon. Pile into the center of the tin and press slightly into batter.
- Top and bake: Sprinkle with nibbed or crushed sugar and bake for about 1½ hours until golden and risen.
- Serve: Best enjoyed warm with custard or cream.

Recipe Tips
- Can I make it ahead? Yes, it can be made a day in advance and gently reheated.
- Does it freeze well? Yes, this cake freezes beautifully.
- Why use Bramley apples? Their tart flavor and soft texture make them ideal for baking.
- How to prevent overbaking: Check after 1 hour 20 minutes—cake should be golden and firm to the touch.
What To Serve With Finnish Apple Cake
This spiced cake pairs well with:
- Warm vanilla custard
- Pouring or whipped cream
- A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream
- A dusting of icing sugar and fresh berries
How To Store Finnish Apple and Cinnamon Cake
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Freeze: Freeze the whole cake or slices, well-wrapped, for up to 1 month.
Finnish Apple and Cinnamon Cake Nutrition Facts
- Calories: ~360 kcal per serving
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.
FAQs
Can I use eating apples instead of Bramleys?
Yes, but reduce the sugar slightly since eating apples are sweeter.
Why spread the batter up the sides?
This technique creates a nest for the apples, giving the cake its signature look and structure.
How do I know when it’s done?
The top should be golden, and a skewer inserted into the edge should come out clean.
Can I skip the sugar topping?
Yes, but the sugar adds crunch and extra sweetness that complements the apples.
Mary Berry Finnish Apple and Cinnamon Cake
Description
A cozy spiced cake packed with tender Bramley apples and topped with a crunchy sugar crust—best served warm with custard or cream.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 160°C/140°C Fan. Grease a 20cm springform tin.
- Whisk spread, flour, 115g sugar, and eggs until smooth.
- Spread half batter in tin base, rest halfway up the sides.
- Toss apples with remaining sugar and cinnamon, fill center.
- Sprinkle with nibbed sugar and bake 1½ hours until golden.
- Serve warm with cream or custard.
Notes
- Use Bramley apples for best results.
- Cake reheats well—ideal for making ahead.
- Freezes well when tightly wrapped.
- Adjust cinnamon to taste for more or less spice.
