Italian Apple Cake with Sour Cream – A Rustic, Moist, and Comforting Dessert

There’s something timeless about a good apple cake. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like home—warm, fragrant, and filled with the natural sweetness of apples. This Italian Apple Cake with Sour Cream is a rustic, no-fuss recipe that delivers big on flavor and texture. With a tender crumb, buttery richness, and juicy apple chunks in every bite, it’s the perfect cake for cozy afternoons, family gatherings, or a simple weeknight treat.

Unlike heavily spiced American-style apple cakes, this Italian-inspired version lets the apples shine. The sour cream adds a subtle tang and keeps the cake incredibly moist, while the melted butter and eggs create a soft, almost custard-like texture. It’s a cake that’s humble in appearance but rich in flavor—just the way traditional Italian desserts are meant to be.

Why You’ll Love This Cake

Simple ingredients – No fancy techniques or hard-to-find items.
Moist and tender – Thanks to sour cream and melted butter.
Naturally rustic – No frosting or decoration needed.
Perfect for any occasion – Breakfast, brunch, dessert, or snack.
Customizable – Add spices, nuts, or citrus zest to make it your own.

Ingredients

This recipe makes one 8-inch round or square cake, serving 8–10 people.

Main Ingredients

2 medium apples, peeled and chopped
Choose firm, sweet-tart varieties like Gala, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady for the best flavor and texture.
200 ml sour cream (about ¾ cup + 1 tablespoon)
Adds moisture and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.
1 cup all-purpose flour
Provides structure and a tender crumb.
½ cup granulated sugar
Sweetens the cake without overpowering the apples.
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Adds richness and a soft, buttery texture.
2 large eggs
Bind the ingredients and help create a custardy consistency.

Optional Additions:

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon or cardamom

1 teaspoon lemon or orange zest

½ teaspoon baking powder (for a slightly lighter texture)

¼ cup chopped walnuts or almonds for crunch

Equipment You’ll Need

Mixing bowls
Whisk or hand mixer
Measuring cups and spoons
Rubber spatula
8-inch cake pan (round or square)
Parchment paper (optional)
Cooling rack
Knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch cake pan with butter or nonstick spray. For easy removal, line the bottom with parchment paper.

Tip: If using a springform pan, you’ll get a beautiful presentation and easy slicing.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

Peel and core 2 apples, then chop them into small bite-sized pieces. Set aside.

Tip: If your apples are very juicy, pat them dry with a paper towel to prevent excess moisture in the batter.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:

½ cup melted butter
½ cup sugar

Whisk until smooth and slightly thickened.

Add:

2 large eggs
200 ml sour cream

Continue whisking until the mixture is creamy and well combined.

Step 4: Add the Dry Ingredients

Stir in:

1 cup all-purpose flour
Pinch of salt

Mix until just combined—do not overmix, as this can make the cake dense.

Optional: Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon or lemon zest at this stage for extra flavor.

Step 5: Fold in the Apples

Gently fold the chopped apples into the batter using a rubber spatula. The batter will be thick and chunky.

Tip: Make sure the apples are evenly distributed so every slice has a good balance of fruit and cake.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.

Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Tip: If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely tent the cake with foil during the last 10 minutes.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serve warm or at room temperature. Dust with powdered sugar for a classic finish, or top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla gelato for an extra indulgent treat.

Time & Yield

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: ~55 minutes
Yield: 8–10 slices
Calories: ~220 kcal per slice (approximate)

Tips for Success

Use room temperature eggs for better mixing and a smoother batter.
Don’t overmix the flour—just stir until the dry ingredients are incorporated.
Choose flavorful apples that hold their shape when baked.
Let the cake cool before slicing to avoid crumbling.
Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Serving Suggestions

This cake is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to enjoy it:

With coffee or tea: A perfect afternoon pick-me-up.
As a brunch centerpiece: Serve with fresh fruit and yogurt.
For dessert: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Holiday gatherings: Dress it up with a dusting of powdered sugar and a few apple slices on top.

Variations to Try

Spiced Apple Cake: Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves for a warm, spiced version.
Nutty Apple Cake: Fold in ¼ cup chopped walnuts or almonds for added crunch.
Citrus Twist: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to brighten the flavor.
Pear Version: Swap apples for ripe pears for a softer, more delicate flavor.
Mini Cakes: Bake in muffin tins for individual portions—adjust bake time to 20–25 minutes.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Freezer: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or warm gently in the oven.

Tip: This cake actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

A Taste of Italy

Italian desserts are known for their simplicity and elegance, and this apple cake is no exception. It’s the kind of recipe you might find in a Tuscan farmhouse or a cozy kitchen in the Italian countryside—made with love, shared with family, and enjoyed with a glass of sweet wine or espresso.

Unlike American-style cakes that often rely on heavy frostings or elaborate fillings, Italian cakes tend to be more restrained, letting the ingredients speak for themselves. The apples provide natural sweetness and moisture, while the sour cream adds a subtle tang that balances the richness of the butter and eggs. It’s a cake that’s both comforting and refined.

Perfect for Gifting

Looking for a thoughtful homemade gift? This cake travels well and makes a lovely addition to a holiday basket or hostess gift. Wrap it in parchment paper, tie it with twine, and include a handwritten recipe card for a personal touch.

Final Thoughts

This Italian Apple Cake with Sour Cream is a celebration of simplicity, flavor, and tradition. It’s the kind of cake that doesn’t need frosting or fanfare—just a fork and a quiet moment to savor. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or just because, it’s sure to become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection.