I’m thrilled to share with you the recipe for what is arguably the most beloved apple pie in Italy. This isn’t just any dessert; it’s a slice of Italian culinary heaven that’s so irresistible, you’ll find yourself making it every day. What sets this apple pie apart is its incredible lightness and the way it practically dissolves on your tongue, creating a moment of pure bliss with every bite.
This recipe has been passed down through generations, perfected in countless Italian kitchens, and now it’s making its way to your home. The secret lies in its simplicity – a delicate balance of flavors and textures that showcases the natural sweetness of apples without overwhelming them. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is designed to help you create a masterpiece that will impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
For one 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan:
- 3 medium apples (approximately 450 g or 1 lb)
- 120 g (1/2 cup + 1 tablespoon) granulated sugar
- 100 g (3/4 cup + 1 tablespoon) all-purpose flour
- 1 sachet (11 g or 2 1/2 teaspoons) baking powder
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) vegetable oil
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) milk
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for the apples)
- Powdered sugar for decoration
- Butter and flour for the pan
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: I begin by washing, peeling, and coring the apples. Then, I slice them thinly, aiming for slices about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick. In a bowl, I toss the apple slices with the juice of half a lemon and 2 tablespoons of sugar. This not only prevents browning but also starts to draw out the apples’ natural sweetness. I transfer the apples to a saucepan and cook them over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, just until they begin to soften. It’s important not to overcook them – we want them to retain some texture. Once done, I set them aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: While the apples are cooling, I preheat my oven to 180°C (350°F). I take a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan and grease it generously with butter, then dust it lightly with flour, tapping out any excess. This ensures our cake will release easily after baking.
- Make the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, I crack the two eggs and add the 120 g of sugar. Using an electric mixer (or a whisk if you’re up for an arm workout), I beat the eggs and sugar together for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy. This incorporates air into the batter, which is crucial for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture we’re after.
- Add Wet Ingredients: With the mixer on low speed, I gradually pour in the vegetable oil in a steady stream, followed by the milk. I make sure each addition is well incorporated before adding the next.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, I sift together the flour and baking powder. This removes any lumps and aerates the flour, contributing to the cake’s lightness. I then fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula, being careful not to overmix. I stop as soon as no streaks of flour remain visible.
- Assemble the Cake: I pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly with my spatula. Then, I arrange the cooled apple slices on top in a circular pattern, slightly overlapping them. This not only makes for a beautiful presentation but ensures every bite has a perfect amount of apple.
- Bake to Perfection: I place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 40 minutes. To check for doneness, I insert a toothpick into the center of the cake – it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it. The top should be golden brown and spring back slightly when gently pressed.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, I remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This allows the cake to set and makes it easier to remove. After 10 minutes, I carefully invert the cake onto a cooling rack, then flip it right side up to cool completely.
- Final Touch: Just before serving, I dust the top of the cake generously with powdered sugar. This adds a touch of sweetness and gives the cake that classic, elegant look.
Nutrition Information
This Italian Apple Pie serves approximately 8-10 people. Per serving (based on 10 servings):
- Calories: 220
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 37mg
- Sodium: 15mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 21g
- Protein: 3g
Please note that these values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.
Tips for the Perfect Italian Apple Pie
- Apple Selection: I recommend using a mix of sweet and tart apples for a complex flavor. Varieties like Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, or Braeburn work wonderfully.
- Texture is Key: The pre-cooking of the apples is crucial. It ensures they’re tender but not mushy, creating that perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and milk are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and ensures even baking.
- Don’t Overmix: When adding the dry ingredients to the wet, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
- Even Baking: Rotate your cake pan halfway through baking to ensure even browning, especially if your oven has hot spots.
- Serving Suggestions: While delicious on its own, this cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla gelato or a dollop of lightly whipped cream.
Conclusion
This Italian Apple Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of simplicity and flavor. The delicate balance of tender apples, light cake, and a hint of sweetness creates a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or as a comforting weekday treat, this pie is sure to become a favorite in your household.
What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility and ease. It’s light enough to enjoy any time of day – perfect with your morning coffee, as an afternoon snack, or as a delightful end to a meal. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the natural flavors to shine through, creating a dessert that’s both rustic and refined.
As you slice into this pie, watch as it reveals layers of perfectly baked apples nestled in a cloud-like cake. The aroma of baked apples and sugar will fill your kitchen, evoking memories of cozy Italian cafes and warm family gatherings.
So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a little piece of Italian magic in your own kitchen. Buon appetito!