3 Ingredient Apple Cake

The 3 Ingredient Apple Cake is an easy and delicious dessert that requires minimal effort. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a simple sweet treat at home, this cake combines fresh apples with a box of cake mix for a delightful flavor. Its unique simplicity makes it stand out, delivering a moist and flavorful cake that tastes homemade without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only three main ingredients, you can whip up this cake in no time, making it ideal for busy days.
• Delicious Flavor: Fresh apples combined with yellow cake mix create a moist and flavorful dessert that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a casual family dinner, this cake fits right in.
• Minimal Clean-Up: Using just one bowl to mix the ingredients means less mess to clean after baking.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon
• Baking pan (9×13 inch recommended)
• Oven mitts
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl allows you to blend all ingredients easily without spills.
• Baking pan: A good-quality pan ensures even baking and easy removal of 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.

For the Cake

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 2 cups fresh apples, peeled and chopped
• 3 large eggs

Optional Ingredients

• Cooking spray or butter for greasing
• Powdered sugar for dusting

How to Make 3 Ingredient Apple Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking pan by greasing it with cooking spray or butter.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

Peel the apples and chop them into uniform 1/2-inch pieces. This ensures they cook evenly throughout the cake.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

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

Step 4: Pour the Batter

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the bottom.

Step 5: Bake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The cake should be golden brown and set in the center when done.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before serving. If desired, dust with powdered sugar before slicing.

Enjoy your deliciously simple 3 Ingredient Apple Cake!

How to Serve 3 Ingredient Apple Cake

Serving your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake can be a delightful experience that enhances its flavors. Here are some ideas to enjoy this easy yet delicious dessert.

Enjoy it Warm

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. The cake’s warmth pairs perfectly with the cold ice cream, creating a delightful contrast.

Add Whipped Cream

• Top the cake with freshly whipped cream for a light and airy finish. This adds a creamy texture that complements the sweetness of the apples.

Drizzle Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of caramel sauce elevates your cake to new heights. The rich, buttery flavor of caramel enhances the apple taste beautifully.

Pair with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy slices of the cake alongside a cup of coffee or tea. The warm beverages balance the sweetness and make for an inviting snack time.

Serve with Fresh Fruit

• Accompany the cake with fresh fruit like berries or citrus slices. This adds freshness and a pop of color, making your dessert more visually appealing.

Dust with Powdered Sugar

• For an elegant touch, dust your cake with powdered sugar before serving. It not only looks beautiful but also adds a hint of sweetness.

Pin this!

How to Perfect 3 Ingredient Apple Cake

Perfecting your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake is simple with these helpful tips. Follow them for best results!

• Choose Fresh Apples: Using fresh, crisp apples will enhance the flavor and texture of your cake.

• Mix Thoroughly: Make sure to combine all ingredients well for an even distribution of flavors throughout the cake.

• Check Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is done baking.

• Let it Cool: Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. This makes slicing easier and improves texture.

• Try Different Toppings: Experiment with various toppings like nuts or chocolate chips for added flavor.

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 tasty suggestions:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice that balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Fresh Berries Salad: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries provides freshness and acidity.
3. Caramelized Bananas: Sweet bananas cooked in butter add richness and flavor that complements apples.
4. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a healthy and delicious side.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses offers savory notes that contrast well with sweet desserts.
6. Almond Biscotti: These crunchy cookies are perfect for dipping into coffee while enjoying your cake.
7. Chai Latte: A spiced drink that pairs perfectly with apple desserts, enhancing their flavors.
8. Cinnamon Sugar Tortillas: Warm tortillas dusted in cinnamon sugar create a fun finger food option alongside dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people encounter issues when making a 3 Ingredient Apple Cake. Here are some common mistakes to watch for.

• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Stir gently until just combined.
• Incorrect oven temperature: An oven that’s too hot can burn the cake, while one that’s too cool can cause undercooking. Always preheat your oven properly.
• Using unpeeled apples: Leaving the skin on can affect the texture and flavor of the cake. Always peel your apples before chopping.
• Not greasing the pan: Failing to grease your baking pan can result in a cake that sticks. Use cooking spray or butter generously.
• Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into the cake too soon can cause it to crumble. Allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving.

Pin this!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Ensure the cake is completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing 3 Ingredient Apple Cake

• Wrap slices in plastic wrap and place 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 heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 20-30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat with a lid for about 5 minutes, ensuring it warms evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make my 3 Ingredient Apple Cake more flavorful?

You can add cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor of your cake. A teaspoon of vanilla extract also works well!

Can I use different types of apples?

Yes! Different apple varieties bring unique flavors and textures. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are excellent choices.

What if my cake is too dry?

If you find your cake is dry, consider adding more chopped apples or a splash of apple juice next time for moisture.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix as an alternative for a gluten-free version of your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake.

Final Thoughts

The 3 Ingredient Apple Cake is not only simple to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts, dried fruits, or spices according to your taste. This delightful dessert is perfect for any occasion, so give it a try!