With just three simple ingredients, this 3 Ingredient Apple Cake is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or craving a sweet treat, this cake delivers delightful flavors and a moist texture that will impress everyone. It’s incredibly easy to make, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the aroma of fresh apples baking will fill your home with warmth and comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple to Make: With only three main ingredients, this cake comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy bakers.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh apples and cake mix creates a moist and flavorful dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy it as a dessert or serve it for breakfast with coffee. It fits any occasion perfectly!
- No Fuss Preparation: Minimal prep time means you can whip this up in no time, perfect for unexpected guests.
- Customizable Options: Add nuts or spices for a personal touch. The recipe allows for easy variations to suit your taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake, gather the essential tools needed for preparation. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth baking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Whisk or spoon
- Baking pan (9×13 recommended)
- Oven
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.
- Baking pan: Using the right size ensures even baking and helps achieve that perfect golden color.
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 the Apples
Peel and chop the apples into uniform 1/2-inch pieces. This ensures they cook evenly throughout the cake.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, chopped apples, and eggs. Stir until all ingredients are well blended.
Step 4: Pour Batter into Pan
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly to ensure consistent baking across the surface.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Place the pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before serving. For an extra touch of sweetness, dust with powdered sugar if desired. Enjoy your delicious 3 Ingredient Apple Cake!
How to Serve 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
Serving your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake can elevate its appeal and make it even more enjoyable. Whether you’re having a cozy family gathering or a festive celebration, here are some delightful ways to serve this cake.
With Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice that pairs beautifully with warm apple cake.
- Cinnamon Ice Cream: Adds a spicy twist that complements the apple flavor perfectly.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Fresh Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, it enhances the cake’s sweetness.
- Flavored Whipped Cream: Try adding vanilla or cinnamon for extra flavor.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- Homemade Caramel: Create a rich topping that adds indulgence.
- Store-Bought Caramel: Quick and easy, perfect for busy days.
Served with Fresh Fruit
- Berries: Strawberries or blueberries add a refreshing touch.
- Sliced Bananas: A delightful addition that enhances the cake’s flavors.
With a Dusting of Powdered Sugar
- Simple Touch: Just a light sprinkle can make your cake look elegant.
- Decorative Patterns: Use stencils for creative designs on your cake.

How to Perfect 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
Perfecting your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake ensures delicious results every time. Here are some helpful tips to enhance your baking experience.
- Use Fresh Apples: Fresh apples provide the best flavor and texture. Choose crisp varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for optimal taste.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture.
- Check Doneness: Use a toothpick to test if the cake is done. It should come out clean when inserted into the center.
- Let It Cool: Allow the cake to cool before serving. This helps set the flavors and makes slicing easier.
Best Side Dishes for 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
Pairing side dishes with your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:
- Vanilla Yogurt – A creamy, tangy contrast that complements the sweetness of the cake.
- Mixed Green Salad – A light salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the dessert.
- Cheese Platter – Various cheeses, such as brie or cheddar, create an interesting pairing with apple flavors.
- Fruit Compote – A warm fruit compote brings extra sweetness and moisture alongside the cake.
- Spiced Nuts – Roasted nuts add crunch and spice, making them an excellent accompaniment.
- Coffee or Tea – A warm beverage enhances the overall experience, perfect for winding down after dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a 3 Ingredient Apple Cake can be simple, but some common mistakes can affect the final result. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Using old apples: Fresh apples make all the difference in flavor and texture. Choose firm, ripe apples for the best taste.
- Not measuring ingredients properly: Accurate measurements are crucial for consistency. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you get it right.
- Skipping greasing the pan: Your cake may stick if you forget this step. Always grease your baking pan with cooking spray or butter beforehand.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a light, fluffy texture.
- Ignoring bake time: Each oven is different. Start checking for doneness at 35 minutes and adjust based on how your cake looks.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- The cake lasts up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a pan over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making a 3 Ingredient Apple Cake.
How do I choose the best apples for this recipe?
For the 3 Ingredient Apple Cake, use firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape and provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the cake mix.
Can I add spices to my apple cake?
Yes! Feel free to add cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor. Just a teaspoon will elevate your cake wonderfully.
What if I don’t have yellow cake mix?
You can use other flavors like white or spice cake mix as substitutes. Each will give a unique twist to your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake.
How do I know when my cake is done?
Check if it’s golden brown and set in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out clean when your cake is ready.
Final Thoughts
This 3 Ingredient Apple Cake is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different fruits or flavors, making it perfect for any occasion. Try this delightful recipe today, and enjoy a warm slice of comfort!

3 Ingredient Apple Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in the warmth of homemade goodness with this 3 Ingredient Apple Cake, a delightful and effortless dessert that will impress at any gathering. With just three simple ingredients—yellow cake mix, fresh apples, and eggs—this cake combines moist texture with the sweet aroma of baking apples. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, it’s versatile enough to enjoy as dessert or even for breakfast. Minimal prep time ensures you can whip it up quickly, while the option to customize with nuts or spices allows you to make it your own. Enjoy a slice warm from the oven, paired perfectly with ice cream or whipped cream for an unforgettable treat.
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 2 cups fresh apples, peeled and chopped
- 3 large eggs
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Peel and chop apples into 1/2-inch pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cake mix, chopped apples, and eggs; stir until well blended.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown; check doneness with a toothpick.
- Cool for 10 minutes before serving; dust with powdered sugar if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (85g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
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