3 Ingredient Apple Cake

Published: August 1, 2025

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With only three ingredients, preparation is a breeze, making this cake perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
Deliciously Moist: The fresh apples keep the cake moist and flavorful, ensuring every bite is satisfying.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm with a scoop of ice cream or at room temperature with a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a special celebration or an everyday dessert, this cake fits right in.
Minimal Cleanup: Fewer ingredients mean less mess in the kitchen, allowing you to focus on enjoying your dessert.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake, gather all the necessary tools to streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking pan (9×13 inch)
Spatula
Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl allows for easy combining of ingredients without spills.
Baking Pan: A 9×13 inch pan provides ample space for baking, ensuring even cooking throughout.
Spatula: An essential tool for spreading batter evenly in the pan and scraping down the sides of the bowl.

Ingredients

Enjoy the simplicity and sweetness of this effortless cake!

Ingredients:
– 1 box yellow cake mix
– 2 cups chopped fresh apples
– 3 eggs

How to Make 3 Ingredient Apple Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to ensure the cake does not stick.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, chopped fresh apples, and eggs.
Stir until the mixture is well blended and smooth.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Spread it evenly with a spatula.

Step 4: Check Doneness

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes.
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before cutting.
Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor enjoyment!

How to Serve 3 Ingredient Apple Cake

This simple and delightful cake can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to add a touch of elegance or keep it casual, there are plenty of serving suggestions to enhance your enjoyment of this 3 Ingredient Apple Cake.

Classic with Whipped Topping

Top slices of the cake with a dollop of whipped topping for a light and creamy contrast to the apple flavor.

A La Mode

Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The melting ice cream perfectly complements the cake’s sweetness and adds a delightful creaminess.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

Drizzle caramel sauce over each slice for an indulgent treat that enhances the apple flavor and adds richness.

Sliced Fresh Fruit on the Side

Pair the cake with fresh fruit like berries or banana slices for a refreshing contrast. This adds color and additional nutrients to your dessert.

Dusting of Powdered Sugar

Lightly dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar before serving. This adds a touch of sweetness and makes for an attractive presentation.

Served with Hot Tea or Coffee

Enjoy slices alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee. The warmth of your beverage will complement the flavors in the cake beautifully.

How to Perfect 3 Ingredient Apple Cake

To ensure your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

Use Fresh Apples: Fresh, crisp apples will provide better flavor and texture compared to older ones. Choose your favorite variety for best results.
Mix Well: Ensure all ingredients are mixed thoroughly. A well-blended batter will yield a fluffy cake without any dry spots.
Check Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven properly. An accurate temperature is crucial for even baking throughout the cake.
Cool Before Serving: Allow the cake to cool slightly before cutting. This helps it set better, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.
Store Properly: To keep leftover cake moist, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It can also be refrigerated if you prefer it chilled.

Best Side Dishes for 3 Ingredient Apple Cake

When serving your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake, consider these delightful side dishes that pair well:

Vanilla Yogurt: A creamy yogurt adds tanginess and balances the sweetness of the cake perfectly.
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette offers freshness and contrasts nicely with dessert.
Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can enhance flavors; try pairing mild cheeses like brie or gouda.
Fruit Salad: A bowl of assorted fresh fruits provides a refreshing palate cleanser between bites.
Granola Parfait: Layer granola with yogurt and fresh fruit for an added crunch that complements the soft cake.
Chai-Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts seasoned with chai spices make for a crunchy side that adds warmth alongside your sweet dish.
Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips lightly dusted with cinnamon sugar can be a fun way to enjoy more apple flavor.
Hot Chocolate: A warm cup brings comfort; its richness pairs well with apple desserts, especially in cooler weather.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially with a simple recipe like the 3 Ingredient Apple Cake. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

Using old ingredients: Freshness matters! Always use fresh apples and check the expiration date on your cake mix to ensure the best flavor.
Not greasing the pan properly: A well-greased pan prevents sticking. Be sure to coat your baking pan generously so that your cake releases easily.
Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a tough texture. Combine the ingredients until just blended for a tender cake.
Skipping the toothpick test: Not checking for doneness can result in an undercooked cake. Always use a toothpick to ensure it comes out clean before removing from the oven.
Cutting before cooling: Letting the cake cool in the pan for a few minutes helps it set and makes cutting easier. Patience pays off here!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Keep slices separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing 3 Ingredient Apple Cake

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing in a freezer-safe bag.
Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating 3 Ingredient Apple Cake

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30-60 seconds or until warm.
Stovetop: Place slices in a non-stick skillet over low heat, covering, for about 5 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the 3 Ingredient Apple Cake.

Can I use different types of apples in the 3 Ingredient Apple Cake?

Yes! Different apple varieties will give you different flavors and textures. Try using tart apples like Granny Smith or sweeter ones like Fuji.

How do I customize my 3 Ingredient Apple Cake?

You can add spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg, or fold in nuts like walnuts or pecans for added flavor and crunch.

What is the best way to serve 3 Ingredient Apple Cake?

Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute your yellow cake mix with a gluten-free version, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free treat!

Final Thoughts

The 3 Ingredient Apple Cake is not only simple but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various spices, fruits, or nuts based on your preferences. This delightful dessert is perfect for any occasion; give it a try today!

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