With the 3 Ingredient Apple Cake, baking becomes a delightful and effortless experience. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, holiday celebration, or simply a cozy afternoon treat. The unique combination of fresh apples and yellow cake mix creates a moist and flavorful dessert that seems much more complex than it is. Its simplicity makes it an ideal choice for beginner bakers and busy home cooks alike.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- How to Make 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Prepare the Apples
- Step 3: Mix Ingredients
- Step 4: Pour into Pan
- Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Step 6: Cool and Serve
- How to Serve 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
- A La Mode
- Whipped Cream Topping
- Caramel Drizzle
- Fresh Fruit Garnish
- Coffee Pairing
- How to Perfect 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
- Best Side Dishes for 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
- Reheating 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes this 3 Ingredient Apple Cake special?
- Can I customize my 3 Ingredient Apple Cake?
- How do I know when my cake is done?
- Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation – With only three main ingredients, you can whip up this cake in just 10 minutes.
- Delicious Flavor – The sweetness of the apples combined with the cake mix results in a scrumptious dessert that everyone will love.
- Versatile Serving Options – Serve it as a dessert or enjoy it for breakfast; it’s delicious any time of day!
- Easy Clean-Up – Minimal tools and ingredients mean less mess in your kitchen.
- Customizable Toppings – Feel free to add your favorite toppings like whipped cream or caramel drizzle for an extra special touch.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline the baking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking pan (9×13 inch)
- Measuring cups
- Whisk or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl – A large mixing bowl allows you to easily combine all ingredients without spilling.
- Baking pan – A 9×13 inch pan is perfect for this recipe, ensuring even baking and easy serving.
- Measuring cups – Accurate measurements are crucial for the right texture and flavor in your cake.
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 your apples into uniform 1/2-inch pieces. This ensures they cook evenly throughout the cake.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, chopped apples, and eggs. Mix until everything is well blended.
Step 4: Pour into Pan
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly across the pan.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Place the pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and set in the center.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
After baking, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar if desired before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious creation!
How to Serve 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
Serving your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake is a delightful experience that can be customized based on your preferences. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this cake can be enjoyed in many ways.
A La Mode
- Serve each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast of warm cake and cold ice cream.
Whipped Cream Topping
- Top slices with fresh whipped cream to add lightness and sweetness, enhancing the apple flavor.
Caramel Drizzle
- Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cake for an extra indulgent touch that complements the apples beautifully.
Fresh Fruit Garnish
- Pair slices with fresh apple slices or berries for a refreshing side that adds color and nutrition.
Coffee Pairing
- Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea to balance the sweetness of the cake; it’s perfect for afternoon snacks.

How to Perfect 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
To make your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake even better, consider these helpful tips that ensure perfect results every time.
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Use Fresh Apples: Fresh apples will provide the best flavor and texture. Try varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for added tartness.
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Don’t Overmix: Stir just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
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Check Doneness Early: Ovens vary; start checking at the 30-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when done.
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Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool before slicing. This helps it set properly and makes serving easier.
Best Side Dishes for 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
Pairing side dishes with your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances the flavors.
- Cinnamon Sugar Toast: Lightly buttered toast sprinkled with cinnamon sugar offers a crunchy contrast.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and brightness alongside the rich cake.
- Cheese Platter: Add slices of sharp cheddar or creamy brie for a savory element that complements sweet flavors.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a nutritious side dish that’s also visually appealing.
- Chai Tea: A warm cup of chai adds spices that harmonize well with apple flavors, perfect for cozy gatherings.
- Savory Nuts: Spiced nuts bring crunch and umami notes that pair nicely with sweet desserts.
- Spiced Cider: Serve warm spiced cider alongside as a comforting drink that enhances the autumnal feel of the apple cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake, it’s easy to overlook a few details. Here are some common mistakes to keep in mind.
- Ignoring apple variety: Not all apples are created equal. Use sweet and firm varieties, like Fuji or Honeycrisp, for the best flavor.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Combine the ingredients just until blended for a light texture.
- Not greasing the pan: Skipping this step may result in the cake sticking. Always grease your baking pan to ensure easy removal.
- Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into the cake immediately can lead to a crumbly texture. Let it cool for at least 10 minutes before serving.
- Using stale cake mix: Old cake mix can affect your cake’s rise and flavor. Check the expiry date before using it.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days.
- Keep it in the fridge if you live in a warm climate.
Freezing 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing.
- It can be frozen 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: Use medium power for 30-60 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this 3 Ingredient Apple Cake special?
This cake is incredibly simple yet delicious, combining just three main ingredients. It delivers comfort and warmth with every bite.
Can I customize my 3 Ingredient Apple Cake?
Absolutely! You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even nuts for extra crunch. Get creative with flavors!
How do I know when my cake is done?
Check if it’s golden brown and set in the middle by inserting a toothpick. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready!
Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes! You can experiment with other fruits like pears or peaches, but adjust baking time accordingly based on their moisture content.
Final Thoughts
The 3 Ingredient Apple Cake is not only quick and easy but also versatile. You can enjoy it as a dessert or even for breakfast! Experiment with different ingredients to make it your own, and delight your family with this comforting treat.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
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3 Ingredient Apple Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful simplicity of the 3 Ingredient Apple Cake, a comforting dessert that is perfect for any occasion. This easy apple cake combines the sweet flavor of fresh apples with a yellow cake mix, resulting in a moist and delicious treat that feels homemade without all the fuss. With just three key ingredients, you can whip up this cake in no time, making it an ideal choice for busy bakers or those new to the kitchen. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoyed as a cozy afternoon snack, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends.
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 pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, chopped apples, and eggs until well blended.
- Pour the batter into the greased baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set in the center.
- Allow cooling for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg