I love making this Sicilian Apple Cake when I want something rustic, comforting, and full of Mediterranean flavor. This traditional Italian-inspired dessert combines tender apples, bright lemon zest, and crunchy almonds in a buttery, soft crumb that feels both simple and elegant. I find it perfect for afternoon coffee, family gatherings, or a cozy weekend bake.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
3 large apples, peeled and thinly sliced
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
⅔ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup brown sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
⅓ cup whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lemon
2 teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup sliced almonds
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Powdered sugar, for dusting
Directions
I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). I grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
In a small bowl, I toss the sliced apples with the fresh lemon juice and set them aside to prevent browning and to enhance their flavor.
In a large mixing bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, I beat the eggs with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and slightly fluffy.
I stir in the melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until everything is well combined.
Gradually, I fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently just until incorporated. I make sure not to overmix.
I then fold in half of the sliced apples.
I pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. I arrange the remaining apple slices evenly over the surface and sprinkle the sliced almonds on top.
I bake the cake for 45–55 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top turns golden brown.
I allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Once it cools completely, I dust it with powdered sugar before serving.
Servings and timing
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 310 kcal per serving
Variations
I sometimes add a pinch of cinnamon for a warmer flavor profile. If I want extra nuttiness, I mix a few chopped almonds directly into the batter. I also like replacing part of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a slightly denser, more traditional texture. Occasionally, I swap lemon zest for orange zest to give the cake a sweeter citrus aroma.
Storage/Reheating
I store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If I need to keep it longer, I refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Before serving, I like to let it come to room temperature or warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds to restore its soft texture. I also freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 months and thaw them at room temperature when needed.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple?
I prefer firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp because they hold their shape well, but I can use any baking apple I have on hand.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
I can substitute a good-quality 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, and the texture still turns out soft and delicious.
Do I have to peel the apples?
I usually peel them for a smoother texture, but I sometimes leave the skins on for a more rustic feel.
Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
I prefer baking the batter right away for the best rise and texture, as the baking powder activates once mixed.
How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
I insert a toothpick into the center, and if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, I know the cake is ready.
Conclusion
I find this Sicilian Apple Cake to be the perfect balance of rustic charm and comforting sweetness. The combination of tender apples, fragrant lemon zest, and crunchy almonds makes it a timeless dessert I love to bake again and again. Whether I serve it for tea, dessert, or a special family moment, it always brings warmth and simple joy to the table.
📖 Recipe:
Sicilian Apple Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rustic and comforting Sicilian Apple Cake made with tender apples, bright lemon zest, and crunchy almonds, featuring a soft, buttery crumb perfect for coffee or dessert.
Ingredients
3 large apples, peeled and thinly sliced
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
⅔ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup brown sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
⅓ cup whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lemon
2 teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup sliced almonds
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
- Toss the sliced apples with fresh lemon juice in a small bowl and set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and slightly fluffy.
- Stir in the melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until well combined.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing gently until just incorporated.
- Fold in half of the sliced apples.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Arrange remaining apple slices over the surface and sprinkle with sliced almonds.
- Bake for 45–55 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best texture.
Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warmer flavor variation.
Substitute part of the flour with almond flour for a denser texture.
Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Freeze wrapped slices for up to 2 months and thaw at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 160 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
