Italian Apple Cake

This Italian Apple Cake is a delightful dessert that showcases the natural sweetness of apples. With 1 kilo (2 pounds) of fresh apples, this cake is moist, fluffy, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home, this cake is sure to impress with its simplicity and rich apple flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This cake requires minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Flavorful: The generous amount of apples infuses the cake with moisture and sweetness, creating a deliciously rich flavor.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a dessert after dinner or as a sweet treat with coffee; it fits perfectly into any part of your day.
• No Extra Spices Needed: The natural taste of the apples shines through, meaning you don’t need additional spices to enhance the flavor.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 8 generous slices, this cake is ideal for gatherings and celebrations.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, make sure you have the right tools on hand. Having everything prepared will make your baking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Baking pan
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine ingredients easily without mess.
• Whisk: Essential for incorporating air into the batter, resulting in a light texture.
• Baking pan: A good-quality pan ensures even cooking and easy release of the cake.
• Knife: For cutting apples quickly and efficiently.

Ingredients

This Italian apple cake is simply made with plenty of apples to fully enjoy their taste: 1 kilo (2 pounds) of apples and no other spices added. It is the juice from these apples that make this cake creamy and fluffy.

For the Cake

• 5 apples (2 lb – 1 kg)
• 1/2 lemon juice (half of a whole lemon juiced)
• 1/2 cup butter (at room temperature)
• 1/2 cup caster sugar
• 2 fresh eggs
• 1 1/2 cup flour (8.8 oz)
• 4 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 cup butter (50 gr)
• 1/4 cup caster sugar (50 gr)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Italian Apple Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Cut the apples into large chunks. Mix them with lemon juice to prevent browning.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together the butter at room temperature with half of the caster sugar until creamy.
2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Mix flour with baking powder.
2. Gradually add this mixture to your wet ingredients until well combined. The batter should be soft and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Pour your batter into a greased baking pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes or until golden brown.

Enjoy your homemade Italian apple cake!

How to Serve Italian Apple Cake

Italian apple cake is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways. Whether you prefer it warm or cold, there are plenty of serving ideas to enhance your experience.

Warm with Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that complements the warm cake perfectly.
• Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Adds a rich sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the apple flavor.

Fresh Whipped Cream

• Simple Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this topping enhances the cake’s natural flavors.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Try adding a hint of cinnamon or vanilla for an extra twist.

Fresh Fruits

• Berries: Serve with fresh strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing side.
• Sliced Pears: Their sweetness pairs well with the tartness of apples.

Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• Light Dusting: A simple sprinkle over the top adds an elegant touch without overwhelming the flavor.

How to Perfect Italian Apple Cake

Perfecting your Italian apple cake can elevate it from good to great. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Use Fresh Apples: Choose firm varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji for better texture and flavor.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined; overmixing can make the cake dense.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for even cooking.
• Let It Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack; this helps maintain its shape.
• Experiment with Add-Ins: Consider adding nuts or raisins for added texture and flavor depth.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Apple Cake

Serving Italian apple cake alongside complementary dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great side options:

1. Coffee: A warm cup of coffee balances the sweetness of the cake perfectly.
2. Tea: Herbal teas like chamomile or mint can provide a soothing contrast.
3. Cheese Platter: Pair with mild cheeses like brie or mascarpone for a savory touch.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with fruits and granola for a refreshing side dish.
5. Salad Greens: A light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can offer a fresh counterpoint.
6. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling chocolate sauce adds an indulgent element that many will love.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Italian apple cake, avoiding common pitfalls will ensure a delicious result.

• Using the wrong type of apples: Some apples are too soft or tart for baking. Choose firm, sweet varieties like Fuji or Granny Smith for the best flavor and texture.
• Not measuring flour accurately: Too much flour can lead to a dry cake. Use a scale if possible or spoon the flour into a measuring cup without packing it down.
• Skipping the lemon juice: This ingredient not only prevents browning but also enhances flavor. Always mix your apple chunks with lemon juice right after cutting them.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the cake dense. Combine ingredients gently until just mixed for a light and fluffy texture.
• Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different. Start checking your cake a few minutes early to avoid overbaking, which can dry it out.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Italian apple cake in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Ensure the cake is completely cool before sealing it to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Italian Apple Cake

• Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Italian Apple Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use medium power to reheat individual slices for about 20-30 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the cake rubbery.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat. Cover with a lid and warm slowly for about 5 minutes, ensuring they don’t burn.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Italian apple cake different from other apple cakes?

Italian apple cake is unique due to its simplicity and focus on fresh apples without added spices. This allows the natural sweetness of the fruit to shine through.

Can I add nuts or raisins to my Italian apple cake?

Absolutely! You can customize your Italian apple cake by adding chopped nuts or raisins to enhance flavor and texture. Just fold them in gently before baking.

How do I ensure my Italian apple cake stays moist?

To keep your cake moist, avoid overbaking and store it properly in an airtight container. The moisture from the apples helps maintain its softness as well.

Can I use other fruits besides apples?

While this recipe focuses on apples, you can experiment with other fruits like pears or peaches. Adjust sweetness based on the fruit’s natural sugar content.

Final Thoughts

This Italian apple cake is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Its rich, fruity flavor makes it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite additions like nuts or dried fruits, making it uniquely yours! Try this delightful dessert today and enjoy its deliciousness!

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Italian Apple Cake

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Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Italian Apple Cake, a simple yet elegant dessert that highlights the natural sweetness of fresh apples. With just 2 pounds of apples combined with creamy butter and eggs, this cake is moist, fluffy, and perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a festive gathering or a quiet night at home. Its uncomplicated recipe makes it accessible for bakers of all levels, and its rich apple flavor speaks for itself without the need for additional spices. Serve it warm with ice cream or enjoy it with coffee; this versatile cake is sure to impress.

• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8 slices 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 kg (2 lb) fresh apples
• 1/2 cup butter (at room temperature)
• 1/2 cup caster sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups flour
• 4 tsp baking powder
• Juice of 1/2 lemon

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking pan.
2. Cut apples into chunks and mix them with lemon juice to prevent browning.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together butter and half the sugar until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. In another bowl, combine flour and baking powder, then gradually mix into wet ingredients until just combined.
5. Fold in the apple chunks, pour the batter into the prepared pan, and bake for about 60 minutes or until golden brown.

• Author: Natalia
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (107g)
• Calories: 260
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 39g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: Use firm apple varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji for the best texture. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and fluffy. For extra flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or raisins before baking.