Description
This Italian Apple Cake, known as Torta di Mele, is a moist and tender dessert packed with fresh apple flavor. It features apples both within the batter and arranged on top, creating a delightful texture and taste in every bite. Perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or as a light dessert, this cake is simple to make and uses common pantry ingredients.
Ingredients
- 4 medium apples (about 500 g total), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 200 g all-purpose flour
- 150 g granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 100 ml whole milk
- 80 ml vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- Juice of half a lemon
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan, or line it with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, toss the thin apple slices with lemon juice to prevent browning. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the milk, oil (or melted butter), and vanilla extract to the egg mixture. Mix until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Reserve about a quarter of the apple slices for the top. Fold the remaining apple slices into the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Arrange the reserved apple slices on top.
- Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with aluminum foil during the last 10-15 minutes.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving once cooled.
Notes
- Best apples to use: Firm and slightly tart varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn.
- Spices: Try nutmeg or cardamom in place of cinnamon for a twist.
- Add-ins: A handful of chopped walnuts or raisins can add texture.
- Glaze option: Brush with warm apricot jam for a glossy finish.
- Storage: Store at room temperature for 2 days or in the fridge for up to 4 days. Warm slices before serving for best flavor.
- Serving ideas: Delicious with whipped cream, ice cream, or a drizzle of honey.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Tea Cake
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx.)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: 33 g
- Fiber: N/A
- Protein: 2.5 g
- Cholesterol: N/A
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