3 Ingredient Apple Cake Recipe

If you’re looking to delight your senses without a pantry full of ingredients, this 3 Ingredient Apple Cake is absolute proof that delicious baking doesn’t need to be complicated. With just a handful of simple staples and a fresh apple or two, this cake turns out gorgeously moist, subtly sweet, and brimming with the cozy aromas of a fall afternoon. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or simply craving an effortless treat, this recipe is the ultimate go-to—each bite is like a warm hug, and you won’t believe that something this easy could taste so wonderful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need three easy-to-find ingredients to make this cake shine. Each plays an essential role, from the tender chunks of fruit to the irresistible golden crumb. Let’s break down how these ingredients come together for such magic.

• Yellow cake mix: The backbone of your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake, this gives you a perfect, fluffy base and just the right sweetness without extra measuring or fuss.
• Chopped fresh apples: These juicy apple nuggets bake up soft and bursting with natural flavor, adding a lovely apple essence in every bite. Choose crisp, tart apples for best results.
• Eggs: Eggs bring everything together, making the batter rich and airy so your cake has just the right lift and moistness.

How to Make 3 Ingredient Apple Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with either a spritz of cooking spray or a smear of butter. This simple step ensures your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake will release effortlessly after baking, keeping the edges perfectly golden and intact.

Step 2: Mix Everything Together

In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, chopped fresh apples, and eggs. Don’t fret if it feels a little thick at first—the apples will add just the right amount of moisture as you mix. Stir until there are no dry pockets and every bit of apple is coated in that sunny batter. This step comes together in just a few moments, but don’t skip the joy of licking the spoon (no judgment!).

Step 3: Pour and Spread the Batter

Pour your freshly mixed batter into the prepared baking pan, using a spatula to spread it into the corners so it’s even. The aromas probably already smell promising! Make sure the apples are distributed throughout the pan for sweet bites in every single slice.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide your pan into the preheated oven and let the magic happen for 35 to 40 minutes. Around the 30-minute mark, your kitchen will start to smell fantastic. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake—if it emerges clean or with only a few moist crumbs, it’s ready to come out.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Patience pays off here. Let your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes so it sets and slices neatly. It’s equally delightful warm or at room temperature, each bite soft, fragrant, and reminiscent of old-fashioned comfort.

How to Serve 3 Ingredient Apple Cake

Garnishes

This cake is a blank canvas for your favorite finishing touches. Try a light dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness and elegance. If you’re feeling decadent, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream turns a simple slice into pure dessert bliss.

Side Dishes

Pairing the 3 Ingredient Apple Cake with freshly brewed coffee or hot apple cider makes it cozy enough for breakfast or brunch. For a festive table, serve with fresh fruit or a mixed berry compote to add a pop of color and extra freshness beside your cake.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the cake into cute little squares for a crowd-pleasing finger food, or stack slices and drizzle with caramel sauce for a bistro-style dessert. Try serving individual squares in cupcake liners—perfect for potlucks, lunchboxes, or just a pretty twist on presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Simply cover your leftover cake tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It’ll stay moist and tasty on your counter for about 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 4 days. The apples help it stay tender even after a day or two!

Freezing

3 Ingredient Apple Cake also freezes like a dream. Let it cool completely, then wrap individual slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap followed by foil. Frozen, it will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw slices at room temperature or microwave for a lunchbox treat on the go.

Reheating

If you prefer your cake warm, pop a slice in the microwave for 10-20 seconds. This brings back a just-baked freshness, softening the apples and enhancing the cake’s lovely aroma all over again.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of cake mix?

Absolutely! While yellow cake mix is classic for a 3 Ingredient Apple Cake, you can try spice cake mix for extra autumn flavor or even vanilla or white cake mix for a lighter twist.

What apples work best?

Choose firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for the best balance of flavor and texture. Softer apples may melt into the cake and make it a bit mushy.

Do I need to peel the apples?

This one is totally up to your personal preference! Peeled apples will blend seamlessly into the cake, while unpeeled apples add a rustic texture and lovely color flecks throughout each slice.

Can I add extra mix-ins?

Sure, get creative if you want! Stirring in a handful of chopped walnuts, raisins, or a sprinkle of cinnamon makes the 3 Ingredient Apple Cake your own special version. Just be mindful that extra mix-ins may slightly change the bake time.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, just swap in your favorite gluten-free cake mix in place of the standard box. The rest of the ingredients and instructions can stay exactly the same—easy as, well, cake!

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never experienced the cozy joy of a homemade cake made with just a handful of ingredients, the 3 Ingredient Apple Cake is your ticket. It’s so easy, so tasty, and so incredibly rewarding—one bake and you’ll want to make it again and again. Give it a whirl, share it with loved ones, and let a little bakery-level magic into your day. Happy baking!

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