If you’re looking for a cozy, rustic dessert that feels like it came straight from a Tuscan kitchen, this Italian Apple Cake with Sour Cream is for you. It’s delightfully moist, loaded with tender chunks of apple, and has that perfectly subtle tang from sour cream that makes every bite feel special.

This cake is one of those comforting bakes that comes together in a single bowl—no fancy mixers or fuss. It’s equally at home on a breakfast table, packed for a picnic, or served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream after dinner.

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Overview of Recipe Content

This Italian Apple Cake with Sour Cream is quick, simple, and satisfying—with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.

Why You’ll Love It

Soft and moist with a tender crumb
Warm cinnamon and sweet apple in every bite
Tangy sour cream adds richness without heaviness
One-bowl recipe = less cleanup
Great warm or cold, and freezer-friendly

What It Tastes Like

This cake is like the Italian cousin of your favorite apple pie. It’s gently sweet, buttery, and filled with little bursts of juicy apple and warm spice. The sour cream adds a creamy balance that keeps it from feeling too rich.

Ingredients

2 apples, peeled and chopped
200 ml sour cream
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
A pinch of salt

Tools Needed

Mixing bowl
Whisk or spoon
8- or 9-inch cake pan
Measuring cups and spoons
Spatula

Suggested Substitutions and Additions

Swap cinnamon for nutmeg or cardamom
Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream
Add chopped walnuts or raisins
Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with honey after baking

How to Make Italian Apple Cake with Sour Cream

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your cake pan or line with parchment.
Combine wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, melted butter, vanilla, and sour cream until smooth.
Add dry ingredients: Stir in flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until just combined.
Fold in apples: Gently stir in chopped apples until evenly distributed.
Bake: Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool: Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

What to Serve with Italian Apple Cake with Sour Cream

Lightly sweetened whipped cream or crème fraîche
Scoop of vanilla ice cream
Warmed and drizzled with caramel sauce
Simple dusting of powdered sugar

Tips for Making It Perfect

Use firm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for best texture
Don’t overmix once you add the flour—just stir until combined
Let the cake cool before slicing to hold its shape
This cake gets even better on day two as the flavors develop

Storage Instructions

Store at room temperature for up to 3 days
Refrigerate for up to 5 days in an airtight container
Freeze slices individually for quick desserts—wrap well and thaw at room temp

General Information

This Italian Apple Cake is all about showcasing simple ingredients in the best way. It’s a classic in many Italian homes—often baked during apple season, but delicious year-round. It pairs beautifully with coffee and conversation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use applesauce instead of apples?
Not recommended—this cake relies on the chunks of apple for texture.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Can I bake this in a loaf pan?
Absolutely—just increase the bake time slightly and check for doneness.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Try using a dairy-free yogurt and plant-based butter.

Conclusion Italian Apple Cake

This Italian Apple Cake with Sour Cream is a celebration of simple baking—just a handful of pantry staples, a couple of apples, and a whole lot of comfort. Perfect for gatherings, gifting, or cozying up with a warm drink.

If you enjoyed this, check out:

Follow along on Pinterest and tag me when you bake—I’d love to see your apple masterpiece!

Interactive Elements

What kind of apples did you use—tart or sweet? Let me know in the comments or tag me on Pinterest @poulefrecipe!

Nutritional Information Italian Apple Cake (per slice, approx. 10 servings)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	240
Protein	3g
Carbohydrates	26g
Sugars	14g
Fat	14g
Saturated Fat	8g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	180mg