Nonna’s Italian Apple Cake (Torta di Mele)
Nonna’s Italian Apple Cake (Torta di Mele), is a light, moist, one-bowl dessert that’s an easy Italian cake recipe.
Nonna’s Italian Apple Cake (Torta di Mele), is a light, moist, one-bowl dessert that’s an easy Italian cake recipe. With fresh apples, it’s soft, fluffy, and perfect for breakfast or a quick, simple dessert.
I absolutely adore apple desserts! If you love them as much as I do, you should try my easy apple crumble or my apple puff pastries!
Originally published October 2015, I updated this post a little in 2023, and then decided October 2024 is the time to update again.
This very Italian cake happens to be dairy-free and could be made gluten-free. Here is my vegan Italian apple cake, it's also amazing!
As soon as there is any hint of Fall, I dream of apple desserts! I have been sharing apple cakes here for over 10 years. Apple cake is my favorite cake...but, then there is Nonna's Apple Cake!
When I first met my Calabrian mother-in-law in Italy, she would have a gigantic apple cake just baked waiting for us to have for breakfast. Every time she made it, it had a little bit of a different flavor. Sometimes she added her own homemade limoncello or she would sometimes add her lemon peels preserved in alcohol (yes, boozey lemon peels are delicious baked in a cake!).
I've mentioned quite often here, it isn't easy to get a recipe out of nonna, especially because she did not like me hovering around her in the kitchen and only recently started to give me a menial job, like peel and slice the apples.
But, lucky for all of us, the first time she came to visit us, we got to baking this cake and I got the recipe!
Nonna’s Italian Apple Cake, or Torta di Mele, is a classic Italian dessert that brings together the rustic charm of simple ingredients with the sweet, tart flavors of fresh apples. This apple cake recipe uses both Granny Smith apples and Pink Lady apples, creating a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness.
With a base made from flour, sugar, and oil (you could use olive oil, if you like), this cake is light, moist, and full of apple flavor. After mixing everything in a large mixing bowl, the cake is baked until golden, then left to cool completely, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
This Italian apple cake is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. It’s perfect for a cozy afternoon with coffee or as a sweet finish to a meal. The apples bake into the batter, making the cake moist and slightly custard-like in texture. As a classic Italian dessert, it feels both familiar and special, bringing a touch of Italy to your kitchen with each slice of apple cake.
Fall is here and of course it means I am baking with apples! It is my all time favorite season to bake! I bake a torta di mele (apple cake) at least once a week! Is that too much apple cake? I seriously don't think so! There can never be enough apple cakes, in my honest opinion!
💖Why we love Italian apple cake recipe:
Lovely warm out of oven: the cake stays fresh and flavorful even after it’s had time to cool completely.
Simple ingredients: you most likely have the pantry ingredients on hand, like flour, sugar, and oil (you could even use olive oil).
Sweet and tart: A perfect blend of sweet and tart, thanks to Granny Smith and Pink Lady apples.
Perfect snack cake or dessert: It’s light and moist, making it great for dessert or an afternoon treat.
Easy to prepare: all you need is a large mixing bowl and basic kitchen tools.
Make ahead: this is one of my favorite cakes to bake for a get-together or party. You can prep ahead of time and finish off all your other dishes.
Now, that's what I can call an easy dessert! Let's get onto the recipe!
🛒 Ingredients in nonna's Italian apple cake recipe:
Every Italian nonna is going to have their secret ingredient or method to make their apple cake.Here is what you need to make this delicious apple cake (full printable recipe can be found below):
Apples: Combining Granny Smith and Pink Lady apples gives it a little tart and sweet balance that is just delicious. I like to use also Gala apples. They are more sweet than tart.
All-purpose flour: This is the base of your cake batter and will give the cake its structure. You can also make this gluten-free with your favorite gluten-free flour blend.
Baking powder: Leavening agent that helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
Sea salt: Just a pinch of salt enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
Granulated sugar: I like to use organic cane sugar or you could use granulated sugar.
Eggs: I use large eggs and always buy the best quality eggs. If you have your own eggs, lucky you! They now have heritage hen eggs at so many markets and the yolks are a gorgeous yellow color. Use those if you can find them.
Coconut oil: you could use coconut oil or any mild flavored oil. Or use olive oil, but it does have a stronger flavor. Unsalted butter also could be used in place of the oil.
Buttermilk or yogurt (dairy-free yogurt works): Adds tang and moisture, making the cake soft and fluffy. If you're dairy-free, you could use almond milk mixed with a bit of white vinegar.
Lemon juice: Brightens the flavor and prevents the apples from browning. If you have Limoncello, you could also use some of that.
Strawberry or apricot jam: I use a bit of jam to cook the apples a little before adding into the cake. It ends up also providing a glaze for a shiny, sweet finish.
raisins: Nonna has sometimes added raisins, even raisins soaked in alchohol (so, boozy Italian raisins). I sometimes bake the cake with raisins, this time I did not. If you do want to use some, it's 1/2 cup raisins mixed in with the apple mixture.
Limoncello: If I have Limoncello on hand, I would soak the raisins in Limoncello, but you could use orange juice. Most summers, nonna would always send us home with a bottle of her homemade Limoncello and even an orange version. Incredible flavor with just a little amount.
Turbinado sugar: (optional) Sprinkled on top for a crunchy, caramelized texture.
Equipment you need to make this recipe
Knife: Any paring knife will work fine to peel, core and slice the apples.
Cutting board: I like to use a small cutting board to slice fruit for my cakes.
Mixer: you could use a hand mixer or a stand mixer.
Bowl: whether you mix with a hand mixer or a mixing spoon, you could use a set of mixing bowls.
Cake pan: I like to use a 9-inch springform cake pan, but you could use a regular cake pan if that's what you have on hand.
🍽️ How to make one bowl Italian apple cake:
Here is how to make this easy apple cake. I do like to cook the apples a little before. The whole cake can be made in one bowl (the full recipe is below!):
Gather all the ingredients.
Step 1: Heat oven and prep cake pan. As soon you cut the apples, place in bowl with lemon juice.
Step 2: I'm not a fan about raw, crunchy apples when I bite into an apple cake. I prefer them soft and tender. They do soften while baking, but to soften them even more, I cook them a little in a small skillet with jam. Not a step that nonna does, but she does her different secret steps every time that makes it super amazing.
Step 3: In a bowl whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Step 4: Add sugar and eggs to a to a large mixing bowl or a stand mixer and beat until creamy.
Step 5: Beat in the oil and buttermilk (or yogurt).
Step 6: Add flour mixture in parts to the wet mixture, scraping sides of bowl with a spatula after every addition.
Step 7: Stir in 1/2 of the apple mixture into batter and pour or spoon the batter into prepped pan.
Step 8: Arrange rest of apple mixture on top of batter.
Step 9: If you have turbinado sugar, sprinkle a little on top. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 10: Let cake cool down, release sides of the springform pan. It's taken years of practice to figure out how to remove the bottom of the pan from the cake. In case you don't remove the springform bottom, it's fine to place on the serving plate with it on. Dust with powdered sugar. Slice and enjoy!
📃 NOTE: Recipe card with detailed instructions are below! Print it out for later!
It is hard to wait for the cake to cool down to get that first slice out! You apple fans will be in love with this easy to make torta di mele!!
What to serve with apple cake Italian?
Here’s a list of what you can serve with Nonna’s Italian Apple Cake (Torta di Mele) to enhance the experience:
Whipped cream: Light, airy whipped cream adds a creamy contrast to the cake's soft texture. It only takes a few minutes to make your own fluffy whipped cream. I highly recommend making your own!
Mascarpone cheese: I just LOVE the flavor of mascarpone. You could spoon a dollop of mascarpone on top to add richness and it really complements the apple flavors.
Vanilla gelato: Gelato is a refreshing and indulgent pairing with the warm, apple-filled cake. If you can't get a hold of any Italian gelato, use a very good quality vanilla ice-cream. Just delicious with the cake!
Caramel sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cake for a sweet, decadent touch.
Espresso or coffee: Serve the cake alongside a strong espresso or a cup of coffee for an authentic Italian dessert experience.
Cinnamon tea: A warm cup of cinnamon or chai tea pairs beautifully with the apple and spice notes of the cake.
Sparkling wine or Prosecco: For a special occasion, serve with a glass of a Brut Prosecco or sparkling wine to balance the sweetness of the dessert. Make sure it's something more dry than sweet.
🫙 Leftover and Storing
Refrigerate: The cake will stay fine wrapped or in an airtight container on the counter for one day. If you have any leftovers after that, keep in the refrigerator wrapped well for a up to a couple days.
Freeze: Let the cake cool completely and freeze slices or the whole cake. Wrap in plastic wrap and then wrap with foil paper and place in a large zipped lock bag for up to 1-2 months. Defrost on the counter before serving.
📃 Substitutions & variations for rustic Italian apple cake:
Add cinnamon: Sprinkle cinnamon into the batter or over the apples for a warm, spiced flavor.
Nuts: Mix in chopped walnuts or almonds for added crunch and texture.
Raisins or dried fruit: Add soaked raisins, cranberries, or dried apricots for extra sweetness and a chewy texture.
Mascarpone swirl: Swirl in a few spoonfuls of mascarpone cheese into the batter before baking for a creamy surprise.
Caramel drizzle: After baking, drizzle homemade caramel over the cooled cake for added richness.
☑️ Our top tips for the best nonna's Italian apple cake recipe:
Use a mix of apples: Combining Granny Smith and Pink Lady apples gives the best balance of tart and sweet flavors.
Thinly slice the apples: Thin slices ensure the apples bake evenly and blend beautifully into the batter for a tender texture.
Don’t overmix the batter: Gently fold the ingredients in the large mixing bowl until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
Add lemon zest: A hint of lemon zest in the batter adds brightness and enhances the apple flavor.
Use olive oil for moisture: You could add in olive oil adds a distinct richness and helps keep the cake moist without making it heavy.
Apples on top: It's up to you if you would like to place the apples on top in a pretty design before baking. I have kids that are rushing to get this cake baking so they can get a slice, they don't care how pretty the top is.
Turbinado sugar: I love to sprinkle a bit of turbinado sugar to cakes like this as it adds a little crunch to the top and it's so pretty. I sometimes have some, and sometimes don't. This time I didn't add it, but go ahead and do if you have some in your pantry!
Let the cake cool completely: Allowing the cake to cool fully after baking helps the flavors settle and makes slicing easier.
Dust with powdered sugar: For an authentic Italian touch, sprinkle powdered sugar over the cake once it has cooled.
Serve with whipped cream: Though optional, a dollop of whipped cream or mascarpone complements the cake’s light sweetness perfectly.
❓ FAQ'S
📖 Recipe
What does torta di mele mean in English?
Torta di mele translates to "apple cake" in English. It's a classic Italian dessert made with fresh apples.
What is Italian hangover cake made of?
Italian hangover cake, also known as Resurrection Cake, typically includes ingredients like sugar, eggs, flour, lemon zest, and alcohol (often rum or wine) to help "cure" a hangover. I have a different version of a hangover cake that is fantastic!
What is bakery apple cake made of?
Bakery-style apple cake is typically made with ingredients like flour, sugar, butter, eggs, baking powder, and fresh apples. Some recipes may include cinnamon, vanilla, and a crumbly topping for texture.
What are the best apples for a cake?
The best apples for cake are Granny Smith (for their tartness and firmness) and Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, or Fuji(for their balance of sweetness and texture). Also, Golden Delicious, Red Delicious, or Royal Gala. You could even use a combination of them.
How to make Italian apple cake?
To make Italian apple cake (torta di mele), mix flour, sugar, eggs, oil (or butter), and a leavening agent like baking powder. Add peeled, sliced apples and bake until golden. Many recipes also include a touch of lemon zest or juice for brightness.
When making apple cake, you have everything you need but buttermilk. What do you do?
If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute it with a mix of 1 cup of milk and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. I used unsweetened almond milk in this recipe mixed with the vinegar (to keep it dairy-free). Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes before using. You can also use plain yogurt as a substitute (dairy-free, also).
Can I add butter to this apple cake recipe?
Yes, you can use same amount of butter in place of the oil. You could even use olive oil. Nonna does make this cake with butter, and I like it either way.
Can I add yogurt in this apple cake?
Yes, you can add yogurt. Since one kid doesn't like yogurt, I added buttermilk.And since the kid is dairy-free, I made the buttermilk with unsweetened almond milk and vinegar.
Can I make this apple cake vegan?
Yes, I have made a vegan nonna's apple cake and it is delicious! My mother-in-law still doesn't know I veganized one of her most popular recipes. If you are looking for a vegan apple cake, you must try Teresa’s Vegan Apple Cake.
Can I make a gluten-free Italian apple cake?
Yes, you can make this apple cake gluten-free. Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with Bob's Red Mill 1-1 gluten-free flour or Kings Arthur 1-1 gluten-free flour. Both flours are great!
Can I substitute Limoncello?
Yes, you can. The apples are cooked for a little bit with the raisins that are soaked in Limoncello, but you could use orange juice, if you prefer something without alcohol.
Which jam is in a torta di mele apple cake?
Not every Italian apple cake (torta di mele) uses jam, but I like to add a bit with the apples. I added a little bit of strawberry and apricot jam, but you could use one or the other. It creates a nice glaze if you add some of the apples on top with the jam.
Does the apple mixture get added on top of the cake?
Yes, some gets added into the batter, and some on top. I love the pretty glaze on top and the raisins and apples peaking out. I also sprinkle a little turbinado sugar on top before baking to give it a little extra sparkle! It's just so pretty and absolutely delicious! If you don't want to be fussy, just combine all the apples in the batter and if you don't have turbinado sugar on hand, you can leave out.
Some other apple dessert recipes you'll love:
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