Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples with ¼ cup of the granulated sugar and the cinnamon (if using). Toss to coat the apples and set aside.
In another mixing bowl, whisk together the remaining ¾ cup of granulated sugar, flour, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt until smooth.
Pour half of the batter into the greased pie pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
Layer the apple mixture over the batter, spreading it out evenly.
Pour the remaining batter over the apples, trying to cover them as much as possible.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the pie to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
Serve warm or at room temperature, with ice cream if desired.