Name: Italian Apple Cake with Olive Oil
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2–3 apples (Golden Delicious, Gala, or Fuji), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 2 large eggs; 2/3 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1/2 cup whole milk (or plant-based alternative); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp lemon or orange zest; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional); Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Italian Apple Cake is a celebration of balance and flavor. The use of olive oil keeps the cake incredibly moist while adding a subtle richness. It’s less sweet than many American-style desserts, making it perfect for breakfast, tea time, or a light after-dinner treat. With tender apple slices nestled into the soft crumb, it’s both wholesome and satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to make and doesn’t require any fancy equipment.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Apples (Golden Delicious, Gala, or Fuji work well)
All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Eggs
Granulated sugar
Extra virgin olive oil
Whole milk (or plant-based alternative)
Lemon zest or orange zest
Vanilla extract
Ground cinnamon (optional)
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Directions

Preheat the oven and grease a round or rectangular cake pan. Line with parchment paper if desired.
Peel, core, and slice the apples thinly. Set aside.
In a bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add olive oil, milk, vanilla extract, and citrus zest. Mix well.
In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until combined.
Gently fold in half of the sliced apples into the batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and arrange the remaining apple slices on top in a fan or rustic pattern.
Bake until the cake is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
Allow to cool before dusting with powdered sugar, if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 to 10 servings. Prep time is about 20 minutes, and baking takes 45 to 50 minutes. Let the cake cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Variations

Nutty addition: Add chopped walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts to the batter for crunch.
Spiced version: Include nutmeg or cardamom for extra warmth.
Dairy-free: Use almond milk or oat milk instead of regular milk.
Gluten-free: Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
Apple & pear combo: Mix apples with thin slices of pear for a fruitier version.
Sweet topping: Serve with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of mascarpone.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm a slice in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or serve at room temperature. This cake also freezes well—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

What kind of olive oil should I use?

Use a mild, fruity extra virgin olive oil. Avoid very bitter or peppery varieties, as they may overpower the cake’s delicate flavor.

Can I use other fruits besides apples?

Yes, you can substitute pears or even plums for a different variation.

Is this cake overly sweet?

No, it’s lightly sweetened, which makes it suitable for breakfast or a not-too-sweet dessert.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, the cake stays moist for several days and can even taste better the next day.

What apples work best?

Golden Delicious, Gala, or Fuji are ideal. They hold their shape and add natural sweetness.

Can I skip the citrus zest?

You can, but the zest adds a fresh note that complements the apples and olive oil beautifully.

Is this cake suitable for people avoiding dairy?

Yes, it uses olive oil instead of butter, and you can easily substitute the milk with a plant-based option.

How do I prevent the apples from sinking?

Coat the apple slices lightly in flour before folding them into the batter to help suspend them.

Can I add a glaze?

Yes, a light lemon or orange glaze pairs wonderfully with this cake.

How should I serve this cake?

It’s delicious on its own or with coffee or tea. For a special touch, serve with a spoonful of whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Conclusion

Italian Apple Cake with Olive Oil is a charming, understated dessert that delivers on both flavor and texture. With its moist crumb, tender apples, and aromatic olive oil, it’s a beautiful example of simple, rustic baking done right. Whether served warm from the oven or enjoyed the next day with a cup of coffee, this cake is sure to become a staple in your baking rotation.