There’s nothing quite like the aroma of apples baking in the oven, filling the kitchen with warmth and sweetness. This Italian apple cake is a rustic beauty made with simple ingredients and lots of fresh apples. Every slice is moist, creamy, and packed with natural fruit flavor, just the way nonna would make it.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Italian Apple Cake
This cake is all about apples. No spices, no fuss, just pure fruit baked into a tender, buttery base. It’s perfect for a light breakfast with coffee, a cozy afternoon snack, or a simple dessert after dinner. Unlike heavy cakes, this one stays soft and creamy thanks to the juice released from the apples as they bake. You’ll also love that it’s easy enough for beginners yet special enough to bring to the table when guests are over. If you enjoy cozy fall treats, you might also want to try these apple cinnamon scones for a morning companion to your cake.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this authentic torta di mele, you’ll need:
• 5 apples (about 2 pounds) peeled and cut into chunks
• Juice of half a lemon
• ½ cup butter at room temperature
• ½ cup caster sugar
• 2 fresh eggs
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour (8.8 oz)
• 4 teaspoons baking powder
• Optional topping: ¼ cup butter melted with ¼ cup sugar
Golden Delicious apples are classic, but Gala, Granny Smith, or any juicy local variety will work. The lemon keeps the apples from browning and adds a subtle brightness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Apples
Peel the apples and cut them into chunky pieces. Toss with lemon juice to keep them fresh and vibrant.
Make the Batter
In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix flour and baking powder in a separate bowl, then fold into the batter. The result should be soft and creamy.
Assemble and Bake
Line a 9-inch cake pan with parchment, butter, and flour. Spread the batter evenly, then press the apple chunks into the surface. If you like, drizzle the melted butter and sugar mixture over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 355°F (180°C) for 1 hour until golden and set. Let the cake rest for 10 minutes before releasing it from the pan.
Serving Ideas
This cake is lovely served warm or at room temperature. A dusting of powdered sugar on top gives it a pretty finish. For an indulgent twist, pair it with a scoop of vanilla gelato or a dollop of whipped cream. If you’re craving something extra apple-filled, these mini apple pies make a fun companion on the dessert table.
Variations to Try
This recipe is versatile. Bake the batter in cupcake molds for individual apple cakes that are easy to pack for picnics or school snacks. Swap the apples for juicy pears or peaches when they’re in season. You can also leave off the butter-sugar topping for a lighter version, and it will still be moist and delicious. For another cozy apple recipe, keep a jar of healthy apple butter handy to spread on slices of this cake.
Storage and Make Ahead Tips
Once cooled, store the cake in an airtight container and it will stay moist for up to four days. You can also freeze it, tightly wrapped, for up to two months. When ready to serve, gently warm a slice in the oven to bring back that fresh-baked softness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?
Yes, though it will make the cake denser. You can swap half the flour for whole wheat to keep it lighter.
Do I have to peel the apples?
Peeling is recommended for a softer texture, but you can leave the skins on if you like a rustic look.
Can I make this without butter
Yes, substitute with a neutral oil like sunflower or light olive oil, though the flavor will change slightly.
Bring this Italian apple cake to your table and let the simple flavors shine. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you leave a comment or share your twist on it.
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Italian Apple Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 1 9-inch cake 1x
Description
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of apples baking in the oven, filling the kitchen with warmth and sweetness. This Italian apple cake is a rustic beauty made with simple ingredients and lots of fresh apples. Every slice is moist, creamy, and packed with natural fruit flavor, just the way nonna would make it.
Ingredients
- 5 apples (about 2 pounds), peeled and cut into chunks
- Juice of half a lemon
- ½ cup butter, at room temperature
- ½ cup caster sugar
- 2 fresh eggs
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour (8.8 oz)
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- Optional topping: ¼ cup butter melted with ¼ cup sugar
Instructions
- Peel the apples and cut them into chunky pieces. Toss with lemon juice to keep them fresh and vibrant.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix flour and baking powder in a separate bowl, then fold into the batter until soft and creamy.
- Line a 9-inch cake pan with parchment paper. Butter and flour the pan.
- Spread the batter evenly into the pan. Press the apple chunks into the surface of the batter.
- Optional: Drizzle the melted butter and sugar mixture over the top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 355°F (180°C) for 1 hour, until golden and set.
- Let the cake rest for 10 minutes before removing from the pan.
Notes
Serve warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar. This cake pairs beautifully with whipped cream or vanilla gelato. It also freezes well and stays moist for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg