A Swedish Princess Cake with layers of cream, jam, and marzipan magic

🧁 Introduction: A Royal Slice of Sweden

The Origins of a Regal Delight

Swedish Princess Cake, known as Prinsesstårta, is more than a sweet treat—it’s a timeless symbol of royal tradition. I’ve always found that the story behind a dish makes it taste even sweeter, and this cake is no exception.Created in the early 1900s by Jenny Åkerström, a Swedish home economics instructor, this cake was originally made for her pupils—Princesses Margaretha, Märtha, and Astrid. The dessert became so beloved by the royal trio that Åkerström featured it in her 1930s cookbook “The Princesses’ Cookbook”. That’s when the Prinsesstårta was officially born.

What sets this cake apart from other layered confections is its balance of elegance and simplicity. Inside its smooth green marzipan dome lies a light sponge cake stacked with rich vanilla custard, tart raspberry jam, and billowy whipped cream. It’s a celebration of texture and flavor, all wrapped up in pastel perfection.

Where the Princess Cake Rules Today

Despite its royal Swedish roots 🇸🇪, the Prinsesstårta has gone global. Its popularity has soared beyond Scandinavia, becoming a cherished dessert in homes and bakeries around the world. Here are the top 10 countries where this cake is most beloved:

• 🇸🇪 Sweden
• 🇳🇴 Norway
• 🇩🇰 Denmark
• 🇺🇸 United States
• 🇬🇧 United Kingdom
• 🇩🇪 Germany
• 🇨🇦 Canada
• 🇫🇮 Finland
• 🇳🇱 Netherlands
• 🇦🇺 Australia

Every country adds its own twist, yet the essence of Prinsesstårta—layers of whipped cream, custard, and raspberry jam—stays true to tradition. This green dome is not just dessert; it’s a centerpiece, a showstopper, a moment of joy wrapped in marzipan.

👀 Looking for more elegant European-inspired desserts? Don’t miss my Pistachio Cardamom Cake — it’s a fragrant, nutty masterpiece that pairs beautifully with Scandinavian baking traditions.

7-Layer Swedish Princess Cake That’s Almost Too Beautiful to Eat

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• Author: Donald Anderson
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Yield: 1 cake (serves 12) 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Learn how to make the stunning 7-layer Swedish Princess Cake—featuring custard, jam, and marzipan. A showstopping dessert that wows every time.

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Ingredients

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• 4 large eggs, room temp
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 2 tbsp whole milk

For the Pastry Cream (Custard):

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

For the Whipped Cream:

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Other Layers:

• 1/2 cup seedless raspberry jam
• 14 oz green marzipan (store-bought or homemade)
• Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
• Optional: pink marzipan rose for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and line a 9″ springform pan.
2. Whisk eggs and sugar until tripled in volume.
3. Fold in sifted flour and baking powder gently.
4. Add milk and vanilla. Pour into pan and bake for 25–30 minutes. Cool completely.
5. Heat milk and vanilla in a saucepan.
6. In a bowl, whisk yolks, sugar, and cornstarch.
7. Temper with warm milk, return to heat, and stir until thickened.
8. Add butter, cover with plastic wrap, and chill.
9. Whip cream, sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
10. Reserve 1 cup for smoothing outside of cake.
11. Slice sponge cake into 3 even layers.
12. Bottom layer: Spread raspberry jam and some whipped cream.
13. Middle layer: Spoon custard and some whipped cream.
14. Top layer: Pile whipped cream in a dome shape.
15. Roll marzipan into a large circle.
16. Drape gently over whipped dome and smooth down edges.
17. Trim excess. Dust with powdered sugar and top with rose.

• Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking, layering
• Cuisine: Swedish / Scandinavian

🧂 What You’ll Need

Essential Tools for a Picture-Perfect Cake

Creating a Swedish Princess Cake at home doesn’t require a royal bakery—just the right equipment and a little patience. I always start by gathering my tools so the process flows like a well-choreographed dance. Here’s what you’ll want to have ready:

• 9-inch springform pan – ideal for releasing delicate sponge layers
• Offset spatula – helps spread the cream and jam smoothly and evenly.
• Serrated knife or cake leveler – to slice layers cleanly
• Piping bag (optional) – for more precision when layering or decorating
• Rolling pin – for flattening the marzipan dome smoothly
• Acetate strips or parchment paper – helps maintain sharp cake edges while assembling

You can prep your workstation by chilling your mixing bowl and whisk in the fridge—this trick gives whipped cream its best volume and structure. Trust me, it’s worth the 10-minute head start.

Key Ingredients That Make It Magical

Each layer of Prinsesstårta plays its part in delivering the dreamy bite this cake is known for. You’ll find the ingredients simple but essential. Here’s what I keep on hand:

• Sponge Cake: Light, airy, and subtly sweet. It forms the base of the structure and the soul of the bite.
• Raspberry Jam: Tart and vibrant—this cuts through the richness and brightens the flavor profile.
• Custard (Pastry Cream): Silky smooth with a delicate vanilla aroma, offering a luscious layer of creaminess.
• Whipped Cream: Freshly whipped for cloud-like texture and volume, it provides the iconic dome shape.
• Green Marzipan: A sweet almond layer that wraps the cake in elegance—both flavorful and iconic.

💡 Pro tip: Make sure your marzipan is at room temperature so it’s pliable enough to roll. If the texture is too firm, it may rip while being draped. And yes, a bit of powdered sugar can help prevent sticking without drying it out.

Looking for more layer cake secrets? My Icebox Cake Magic recipe reveals expert tips for creating layers of structure and flavor like a pro—no matter what cake style you choose.

📝 Ingredients

Fresh, Quality Ingredients Make All the Difference

To truly honor the Swedish Princess Cake’s royal roots, I choose each ingredient with care. From fluffy sponge layers to that iconic green marzipan dome, every component plays a role in achieving the perfect bite—light, creamy, and balanced.

Here’s everything you’ll need to recreate this stunning seven-layer dessert at home.

🥚 For the Sponge Cake

The base of this cake is light, fluffy, and delicately sweet, providing the perfect balance to the rich cream and custard.

• 4 large eggs, room temperature – ensure a stable foam
• 1 cup granulated sugar – provides sweetness while giving the batter structure and volume
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – enhances overall flavor
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – sifted for a lighter crumb
• 1 tsp baking powder – gives the sponge its lift
• 2 tbsp whole milk – loosens the batter slightly for moisture

Tip: Beat the eggs and sugar until tripled in volume—this is key to a light sponge without using butter or oil.

🍮 For the Pastry Cream (Custard)

Rich, silky custard adds a velvety contrast between the cake and cream.

• 2 cups whole milk – for full-bodied texture
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar – just enough sweetness
• 4 large egg yolks – for thickening and richness
• 1/4 cup cornstarch – stabilizes the custard
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – brings warm aroma
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter – added at the end for sheen and smoothness

Chill completely before assembling, and cover with plastic wrap touching the surface to prevent skin from forming.

🧁 For the Whipped Cream

Whipped cream gives the Princess Cake its signature dome.

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold – whip just before assembling
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar – sweetens and stabilizes
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – subtle flavor enhancement

Reserve about 1 cup to coat the cake’s exterior before covering it in marzipan.

🍓 Other Layers & Decoration

• 1/2 cup seedless raspberry jam – tart, bright middle layer
• 14 oz green marzipan – homemade or store-bought, softened
• Optional: Powdered sugar for dusting
• Optional: Pink marzipan rose or real edible flower for garnish

Want to make your own marzipan from scratch? I walk through the entire method step-by-step in my Pistachio Cardamom Cake, which uses a similar almond base for flavor and texture.

🍰 Instructions

Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting a Swedish Masterpiece

Creating a Swedish Princess Cake at home may look like a royal feat, but I promise it’s absolutely doable. With a little planning and the right steps, this princess cake recipe comes together beautifully—layer by layer. Follow these detailed instructions, and you’ll have your own green-domed showstopper ready to serve.

🔪 Step 1: Bake the Sponge Cake

Start with the base of the Swedish Princess Cake. This sponge is airy, tender, and forms the foundation that supports the entire cake.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly butter a 9-inch springform pan and line it with a sheet of parchment paper for easy release.
2. In a large bowl, beat 4 eggs and 1 cup sugar with an electric mixer until tripled in volume—about 6–8 minutes.
3. Sift 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of baking powder until fully combined and lump-free. Gently fold into the egg mixture.
4. Mix in 2 tablespoons of milk along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smoothly incorporated.
5. Pour the batter into the pan and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden and springy.
6. Cool completely before slicing into layers.

This sponge forms the core of every true Prinsesstårta, giving the cake its classic, timeless character.

🍮 Step 2: Make the Pastry Cream

This creamy custard layer adds a luxurious, velvety texture to the Swedish Princess Cake.

1. In a saucepan, heat 2 cups whole milk with 1 tsp vanilla extract until just steaming.
2. In another bowl, whisk together 4 egg yolks, 1/2 cup sugar, and 1/4 cup cornstarch until the mixture turns light and smooth.
3. Slowly add hot milk into the yolk mixture, whisking constantly to temper.
4. Return the mixture to the pan and cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened—about 4–5 minutes.
5. Remove from the heat, stir in 2 tablespoons of butter until fully melted, then transfer the mixture into a bowl.
6. Place plastic wrap directly on the surface of the custard, then refrigerate until thoroughly chilled.

A velvety custard creates the perfect base for a seamless marzipan finish.

🧁 Step 3: Prepare the Whipped Cream

A generous layer of freshly whipped cream gives the Swedish Princess Cake its airy lightness and that signature rounded crown on top.

1. In a cold mixing bowl, whip 2 cups of heavy cream together with ¼ cup of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla until light and fluffy.
2. Whip to stiff peaks—don’t overdo it.
3. Set aside 1 cup to evenly coat the cake’s exterior before covering it with the marzipan layer.

This fluffy layer gives the princess cake recipe its dreamy finish.

🏗️ Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Now it’s time to bring your Swedish Princess Cake to life.

1. Slice the cooled sponge cake horizontally into 3 even layers using a serrated knife.
2. Position the base layer onto a cake board or your chosen serving platter.
   • Spread a thin layer of raspberry jam, followed by a layer of whipped cream.
3. Add the middle sponge layer.
   • Spread the pastry cream evenly over the top, followed by a light, smooth layer of whipped cream.
4. Place the final sponge layer.
   • Pile the remaining whipped cream on top, shaping it into a soft, rounded dome.

Use a spatula to smooth the surface and prepare for the iconic green topping.

🎨 Step 5: Cover with Marzipan

Here’s where your Swedish Princess Cake gets its iconic royal look.

1. Knead 14 oz green marzipan until soft and pliable.
2. Roll the marzipan into a wide circle, roughly 14 inches across, on a surface lightly dusted with powdered sugar.
3. Drape it carefully over the cake’s dome. Smooth the sides gently with your hands.
4. Trim off the excess at the base.
5. Dust lightly with powdered sugar, and if desired, top with a pink marzipan rose or edible flower.

This marzipan dome not only adds elegance but also locks in the cake’s moisture and rich flavor.

Looking for more layer cake magic? My Crumbl-Style Churro Cookie Cake delivers big flavor with bakery-style flair—perfect for those who love multi-texture desserts.

⏱️ Time Overview

How Long Does It Take to Make a Swedish Princess Cake?

One of the most common questions I get about the Swedish Princess Cake is: “How much time will I need?” The truth is, this isn’t your average one-bowl cake—it’s a special occasion dessert that rewards patience. From whipping the eggs to gently layering the marzipan, every step plays a vital role in creating a true Swedish Princess Cake.

Here’s the breakdown of active and resting times so you can plan ahead:

• Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (baking, custard, whipped cream, marzipan rolling)
• Cook Time: 30 minutes (sponge cake only)
• Chill Time: About 30 minutes for custard + cooling sponge
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (plus a little extra if you’re new to assembling layered cakes)

If you’re preparing for a big event, I recommend baking the sponge and custard the day before. This makes the final assembly of your Prinsesstårta much smoother.

🧮 Nutrition Score (Per Slice – 12 Servings)

Is Swedish Princess Cake Healthy?

The Swedish Princess Cake is indulgent, and that’s exactly what makes it shine. With its layers of sponge, custard, cream, and marzipan, it’s meant to be enjoyed as a centerpiece dessert for celebrations.

Here’s the estimated nutrition breakdown per slice (12 slices total):

• Calories: 480
• Fat: 28 oz
• Cholesterol: 120 mg
• Carbohydrates: 52 oz
• Sugar: 38 oz
• Protein: 6 oz
• Sodium: 120 mg

This princess cake recipe is rich, but remember: it’s a treat designed for birthdays, holidays, or special moments. Pairing a slice with coffee during a Swedish fika makes it even more memorable.

💡 Tip: If you’d like a lighter version, try substituting low-fat milk in the custard or using reduced-sugar jam. These swaps won’t take away the charm of this classic Prinsesstårta.

🍴 Serving & Storage

The Best Way to Serve a Swedish Princess Cake

Presentation is everything when it comes to a Swedish Princess Cake. After all, this princess cake recipe was designed to impress royalty. I’ve found that the secret lies not only in how you slice it but also in how you pair it.

When it’s time to serve:

• Use a hot, dry knife for clean slices through the marzipan dome. Wipe the knife between cuts to avoid smudging the layers.
• Serve slightly chilled for firmer slices, or let it rest at room temperature for 20 minutes if you prefer a softer texture.
• Pair each slice with freshly brewed coffee or tea—the traditional Swedish way to enjoy it during fika.

The vibrant layers of sponge, custard, jam, and cream make this Prinsesstårta the star of any table, whether it’s a birthday, bridal shower, or holiday celebration.

Storage Tips for Longevity

Because the Swedish Princess Cake is delicate, proper storage is key to keeping it fresh. Here’s how I make sure my cake stays beautiful for days:

• Refrigerate covered: Store the cake in an airtight container or gently wrapped with plastic wrap. It will remain fresh for up to three days.
• Avoid freezing: Whipped cream and marzipan lose their smooth texture when frozen, often resulting in a cracked or uneven dome.
• Prepare ahead: You can make the sponge cake and custard a day in advance. Keep the sponge wrapped tightly at room temperature and the custard refrigerated. Build the cake on the same day you plan to serve it for optimal freshness and flavor.

This thoughtful balance of preparation and preservation ensures your Swedish Princess Cake stays as delicious as when it was first made.

Looking for another dessert that’s perfect for make-ahead prep? Check out my Lemon Dump Cake—a bright, citrusy treat that stores beautifully.

🧬 Variations & Customizations

Flavor Twists to Reinvent the Swedish Princess Cake

The charm of the Swedish Princess Cake comes from its incredible versatility. While the traditional princess cake recipe uses raspberry jam, vanilla custard, and a green marzipan dome, there are countless ways to make it your own. Here are some of my favorite variations:

• Berry Swap: Replace raspberry jam with strawberry, blackberry, or lingonberry for a new fruity layer. Lingonberry, in particular, gives a tart Nordic twist that makes the Prinsesstårta even more authentic.
• Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Use a chocolate sponge base instead of vanilla. The rich cocoa notes balance beautifully with marzipan’s almond sweetness.
• Nutty Boost: Add a few drops of almond extract to the whipped cream for extra depth. It ties the cream to the marzipan shell seamlessly.

These flavor twists keep the classic essence of the Swedish Princess Cake while making each version uniquely yours.

Dietary Adaptations for Every Guest

Not everyone at the table eats the same way, and the good news is, this marzipan cake adapts well to different diets:

• Gluten-Free Princess Cake: Swap the all-purpose flour for almond flour or a 1:1 gluten-free blend.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream instead of whipped cream and almond milk for the custard.
• Lower-Sugar Option: Choose sugar-free raspberry jam and sweeten whipped cream with monk fruit or stevia.

These adaptations ensure that everyone can enjoy a slice of Prinsesstårta, regardless of dietary needs. It’s proof that this iconic Swedish Princess Cake truly is fit for all occasions.

Looking for another creative spin on a classic dessert? My Griddled Peaches and Cream with Pound Cake offers a fresh, fruity alternative for summer gatherings.

🙋 Frequently Asked Questions

🎉 Conclusion: Fit for Royalty

A Celebration of Tradition and Elegance

The Swedish Princess Cake is not just a dessert—it’s a piece of history served on a plate. With its origins tied to Scandinavian royalty, this princess cake recipe has carried elegance and joy across generations. From the delicate sponge to the smooth marzipan dome, every element reflects craftsmanship and tradition. It’s no wonder that the Prinsesstårta remains one of Sweden’s most cherished culinary creations.

Whether you serve it at a birthday, wedding shower, or festive holiday table, this green-domed masterpiece is guaranteed to impress. The vibrant colors and balanced flavors remind me that some desserts are more than food—they’re cultural treasures.

Why You’ll Keep Coming Back

What makes the Swedish Princess Cake unforgettable is the harmony of flavors. The almond-scented marzipan, vanilla-rich custard, tart raspberry jam, and pillowy whipped cream come together in perfect balance. It’s indulgent yet light, traditional yet customizable. This is the kind of cake you’ll find yourself making again and again—each time with a new twist that keeps it personal.

If you’ve fallen in love with the magic of layered cakes, I recommend also trying my Crumbl-Style Churro Cookie Cake. It offers a fun, bakery-inspired take on multi-texture desserts.

So the next time you want to impress your guests—or simply treat yourself—remember this: the Swedish Princess Cake is always fit for royalty.