3 Ingredient Apple Cake
With just a few ingredients, this 3 Ingredient Apple Cake offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will impress your family and friends. Perfect for any occasion, be it a cozy family gathering or a festive celebration, this cake captures the essence of home-baked goodness without the fuss. The simplicity of the recipe makes it accessible for bakers of all skill levels, while the fresh apples ensure a moist and flavorful treat that tastes like it took hours to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With only three main ingredients, this recipe comes together in no time.
- Deliciously Moist: Fresh apples keep the cake moist and packed with flavor.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a dessert or breakfast treat; it’s perfect for any time of day.
- Minimal Cleanup: Fewer ingredients mean less mess in the kitchen—just one bowl needed!
- Customizable: Add nuts or spices to suit your taste; the possibilities are endless.
Tools and Preparation
To create your delicious 3 Ingredient Apple Cake, having the right tools on hand is essential. These tools simplify the process and enhance your baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking pan (9×13 inch recommended)
- Whisk or spoon for mixing
- Measuring cups
- Oven mitts
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine all your ingredients easily without spilling.
- Baking pan: The right size ensures even baking and helps achieve that perfect golden-brown finish.
Ingredients
With these simple ingredients, your kitchen will transform into a haven of sweet apple aromas, creating a cake that tastes like it took hours to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 box yellow cake mix
– 2 cups fresh apples, peeled and chopped
– 3 large eggs
– Cooking spray or butter for greasing (optional)
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
How to Make 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease your baking pan with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare Apples
- Peel and chop the apples into uniform 1/2-inch pieces.
- Set them aside while you mix the batter.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
- In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, chopped apples, and eggs.
- Use a whisk or spoon to blend everything until well mixed.
Step 4: Pour Batter into Pan
- Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan.
- Spread it evenly across the pan for consistent baking.
Step 5: Bake
- Place the pan in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set in the center.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired. Enjoy!
How to Serve 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
Serving your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake can elevate the experience, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it warm or cold, there are various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation.
A La Mode
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a delightful contrast of warm cake and cold creaminess.
With Whipped Cream
- Serve slices with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a light and airy addition that complements the apple flavors.
Dusting of Powdered Sugar
- A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch to your cake, enhancing its visual appeal without overpowering the taste.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- For those who love extra sweetness, drizzle warm caramel sauce over each slice for an indulgent treat.
Pair with Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy your cake with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of the beverage pairs beautifully with the apple flavors in the cake.
Fresh Fruit Garnish
- Top the cake with slices of fresh apples or other seasonal fruits for added color and freshness on each plate.

How to Perfect 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
To achieve the best results with your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake, consider these helpful tips that can enhance both flavor and texture.
-
Use Fresh Apples: Fresh apples give the best flavor. Choose varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a balanced sweetness.
-
Mix Thoroughly: Ensure that you mix the ingredients well, so every bite is filled with apple goodness and even texture throughout.
-
Check Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cake is ready to be enjoyed!
-
Let It Cool: Allowing the cake to cool before serving helps set its structure, making slicing easier and neater.
Best Side Dishes for 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
Pairing side dishes with your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake can create a wonderful dining experience. Consider these options that complement the flavors beautifully.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice, it provides creamy richness that balances out the sweetness of the cake.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of berries and citrus adds freshness and tanginess that contrasts nicely with the cake.
- Nutty Granola: Crushed granola sprinkled on top gives a delightful crunch alongside the soft texture of apple cake.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like brie or sharp cheddar enhances flavors through savory notes.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with fruit and granola for a refreshing side that adds creaminess and nutrition.
- Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts seasoned with cinnamon and sugar provide a crunchy snack that pairs well with sweet desserts.
- Hot Tea or Coffee: Beverages like chai tea or dark roast coffee offer warmth and depth alongside each slice of cake.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling chocolate sauce over each serving creates an indulgent combination that’s hard to resist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a 3 Ingredient Apple Cake, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Skipping the greasing step: Not greasing your pan can lead to sticking. Always grease with cooking spray or butter to ensure easy removal.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the cake dense. Combine the ingredients until just blended for a light texture.
- Ignoring apple size: Using unevenly chopped apples can result in uneven baking. Aim for uniform 1/2-inch pieces for consistent results.
- Not checking doneness: Baking times can vary. Check your cake a few minutes early to prevent overbaking.
- Omitting powdered sugar: Dusting with powdered sugar enhances presentation and flavor. Don’t skip this optional step for an extra touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container.
- It will keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering it with a lid for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making and enjoying your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake.
Can I use different types of apples?
Yes, you can use any apple variety you like. Granny Smith apples add tartness, while Fuji apples are sweeter.
Is the 3 Ingredient Apple Cake suitable for breakfast?
Absolutely! This cake doubles as a delightful breakfast option, offering sweetness without being overly indulgent.
How do I customize the recipe?
You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or mix in nuts or raisins to personalize your cake further!
What should I serve with this cake?
The 3 Ingredient Apple Cake pairs well with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat.
Final Thoughts
The 3 Ingredient Apple Cake is not only simple but also versatile and delicious. Whether you enjoy it as a dessert or breakfast, its delightful flavors will surely satisfy your cravings. Feel free to experiment with different add-ins and toppings!

3 Ingredient Apple Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful simplicity of this 3 Ingredient Apple Cake, a perfect dessert that brings the comforting taste of homemade baking to your table with minimal effort. This easy apple cake features fresh apples, yellow cake mix, and eggs, creating a moist and flavorful treat that’s ideal for any occasion—be it a cozy family gathering or a festive celebration. The straightforward preparation means even novice bakers can achieve impressive results without the fuss. With every bite, you’ll savor the sweet aroma of baked apples mingling with hints of vanilla, making it an irresistible addition to your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 2 cups fresh apples, peeled and chopped
- 3 large eggs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Peel and chop apples into uniform 1/2-inch pieces; set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, chopped apples, and eggs. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading evenly.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set in the center.
- Allow cooling in the pan for about 10 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (68g)
- Calories: 185
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg