Italian Apple Cake (Torta di Mele) – Best Moist & Ready in 50 Min

There’s something truly special about a homemade apple cake, and this Italian Apple Cake (Torta di Mele) is pure comfort in every bite. It’s soft, buttery, and packed with tender apple chunks that melt in your mouth. The best part? It’s incredibly simple to make!

This traditional Italian dessert is perfect for cozy afternoons with a cup of coffee, a family gathering, or even a special treat just for yourself. With a golden, slightly caramelized topping and a delicate, moist crumb, this cake is an absolute must-try!

So, let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Italian Apple Cake

• Authentic Italian recipe – A traditional and beloved dessert
• Easy to make – No complicated steps, just mix, bake, and enjoy!
• Packed with apples – Sweet, juicy apples in every bite
• Perfect texture – Soft inside with a golden, buttery top
• Delicious warm or cold – Enjoy it fresh out of the oven or chilled the next day

Ingredients

Cake Batter

• 5 apples (about 2 lb or 1 kg) – Peeled and cut into large chunks
• ½ lemon (juice) – To prevent apples from browning and enhance flavor
• ½ cup butter (at room temperature) – Adds richness and moisture
• ½ cup caster sugar – For the perfect level of sweetness
• 2 fresh eggs – Helps bind everything together
• 1 ½ cups plain flour – Creates a soft and tender crumb
• 4 teaspoons baking powder – Ensures a light, fluffy texture

Topping

• ¼ cup butter (50 g) – For a rich, golden top
• ¼ cup caster sugar (50 g) – Adds a slight caramelized crunch

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Knife and cutting board

Ingredient Substitutions & Additions

• No caster sugar? Use granulated sugar instead
• Want extra spice? Add 1 teaspoon cinnamon or nutmeg
• Dairy-free? Swap butter with plant-based margarine
• Love nuts? Sprinkle chopped almonds or walnuts on top before baking

How to Make Italian Apple Cake (Torta di Mele)

1️⃣ Prepare the Apples

Peel and chop the apples into large chunks. Toss them with lemon juice to keep them from browning and set aside.

2️⃣ Make the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter and sugar until light and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

3️⃣ Add the Dry Ingredients

Sift in the flour and baking powder, then gently fold everything together until just combined. The batter will be thick—don’t worry, the apples will release moisture while baking.

4️⃣ Fold in the Apples

Gently mix the apple chunks into the batter, making sure they are evenly distributed.

5️⃣ Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch cake pan and spread evenly. Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 30 minutes.

6️⃣ Add the Topping

After 30 minutes, remove the cake from the oven and carefully spread the melted butter over the top. Sprinkle with caster sugar for a caramelized finish.

7️⃣ Finish Baking

Return the cake to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8️⃣ Cool & Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature!

What to Serve with Italian Apple Cake

• A dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch
• A scoop of vanilla gelato or whipped cream for extra indulgence
• A drizzle of honey or caramel sauce to enhance the sweetness
• A cup of espresso or cappuccino for the perfect Italian pairing

Pro Tips for the Perfect Italian Apple Cake Torta di Mele

• Use fresh, firm apples – Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best
• Don’t overmix the batter – This keeps the cake light and airy
• Check for doneness early – Every oven is different, so start checking at 35 minutes
• Let it rest before serving – This allows the flavors to develop beautifully

How to Store Your Italian Apple Cake

• At room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days
• In the fridge: Keeps fresh for up to 5 days (bring to room temp before serving)
• In the freezer: Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before enjoying

FAQs Italian Apple Cake

What are the best apples for Torta di Mele?

Use firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Pink Lady for the best texture and flavor.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute plain flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour for a similar result.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop. Store in the fridge and warm slightly before serving.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes! You can reduce the sugar in the batter to ⅓ cup for a less sweet version, as the apples already add natural sweetness.

Final Thoughts

This Italian Apple Cake (Torta di Mele) is a simple yet stunning dessert that brings warmth and comfort with every bite. The soft, buttery texture combined with the natural sweetness of apples makes it a must-try for any occasion.

If you try this recipe, let me know how it turns out! Leave a comment, rate the recipe, and share your photos on Pinterest at poulefrecipe. Happy baking! 🍏✨

More Delicious Cakes to Try

• Flourless Apple Cinnamon Cake – A naturally gluten-free delight
• Cake Mix Coffee Cake – Quick and delicious with a crumbly topping
• Cassava Cake with Macapuno – A rich and tropical treat

Happy baking! 😊🍏

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