This Italian Apple Cake, known as “Torta di Mele,” is a delightful celebration of apples, using a generous amount to create a moist and flavorful dessert. Originating from a 1950s Italian recipe, it emphasizes simplicity and the natural sweetness of the fruit, making it perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a light dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Flavor: With no added spices, the cake highlights the pure taste of fresh apples.
- Moist and Tender: The abundance of apples ensures a moist and tender crumb in every bite.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, it’s an easy and accessible recipe for any home baker.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or accompanied by a dollop of whipped cream.
Ingredients
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) Golden Delicious apples
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Grated zest of 1 lemon
- 3 large eggs
- 200 g (1 cup) granulated sugar
- 100 g (7 tbsp) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 200 g (1⅔ cups) all-purpose flour
- 16 g (4 tsp) baking powder
- A pinch of salt
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges. Toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar until light and fluffy. Add the melted butter and grated lemon zest, mixing well.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Incorporate Apples: Gently fold in the apple slices, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Bake: Pour the batter into a greased and floured 24 cm (9-inch) springform pan. Arrange a few apple slices on top for decoration if desired. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (355°F) for about 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve at room temperature, optionally dusted with powdered sugar.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 8-10 slices.
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes
Variations
- Apple Cupcakes: For individual portions, divide the batter into a muffin tin to create apple cupcakes. Adjust the baking time to 20-25 minutes.
- Spiced Version: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Different Fruits: Substitute apples with pears or peaches for a different fruit profile.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To enjoy warm, heat slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a preheated oven at 150°C (300°F) for 10 minutes.
FAQs
What type of apples are best for this cake?
Golden Delicious apples are recommended for their sweetness and texture, but other varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji can also be used.
Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?
Yes, you can adjust the sugar to your taste. Reducing it by up to 50 grams should still yield a delicious cake.
Is it necessary to peel the apples?
Peeling the apples results in a smoother texture, but if you prefer a more rustic feel, you can leave the skins on.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Whole wheat flour can be used, but it may result in a denser cake. Consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a balanced texture.
How can I tell if the cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is done.
Can I add nuts to the batter?
Yes, adding chopped walnuts or almonds can provide a pleasant crunch to the cake.
What size pan is ideal for this recipe?
A 24 cm (9-inch) springform pan is ideal, but similar-sized round or square pans can be used.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Substituting with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend should work, though the texture may vary slightly.
Should I refrigerate the cake?
If you plan to keep the cake for more than 2 days, it’s advisable to refrigerate it to maintain freshness.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute for butter in this recipe.
Italian Apple Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 slices
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic Italian Apple Cake, or “Torta di Mele,” is a moist, tender dessert packed with fresh apples and a hint of lemon zest. Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a light dessert, it’s made with simple ingredients to highlight the natural sweetness of the fruit.
Ingredients
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) Golden Delicious apples
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Grated zest of 1 lemon
- 3 large eggs
- 200 g (1 cup) granulated sugar
- 100 g (7 tbsp) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 200 g (1⅔ cups) all-purpose flour
- 16 g (4 tsp) baking powder
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180°C (355°F). Grease and flour a 24 cm (9-inch) springform pan.
- Peel, core, and slice apples into thin wedges. Toss with lemon juice.
- Beat eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in melted butter and lemon zest.
- Sift flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually combine with wet mixture.
- Fold in apple slices evenly. Pour batter into the prepared pan, arranging a few apple slices on top for decoration.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool for 10 minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack. Serve at room temperature, optionally dusted with powdered sugar.
Notes
- Golden Delicious apples are ideal, but other varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji can be used.
- For a spiced version, add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg.
- Store at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian