With the 3 Ingredient Apple Cake, you can whip up a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. This simple recipe combines fresh apples with a box cake mix and eggs, resulting in a moist and flavorful cake. Whether it’s a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or just a cozy evening at home, this cake brings warmth and sweetness to your table.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Cake
- Optional Ingredients
- How to Make 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Prepare the Apples
- Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Step 4: Pour Batter into Pan
- Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Step 6: Cool and Serve
- How to Serve 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
- With Vanilla Ice Cream
- Topped with Whipped Cream
- Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- Served with Fresh Berries
- Accompanied by Nuts
- Paired with Coffee or Tea
- 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
- Can I use other cake mixes for the 3 Ingredient Apple Cake?
- How do I ensure my apples stay fresh in the cake?
- What can I add to the basic recipe of 3 Ingredient Apple Cake?
- Is this recipe suitable for Weight Watchers?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With only three main ingredients, this recipe is straightforward and won’t take much of your time.
- Deliciously Moist: The fresh apples add moisture and flavor, making every bite irresistible.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain or dress it up with powdered sugar, whipped cream, or ice cream.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast or dessert, this cake fits perfectly into any meal or gathering.
- Kid-Friendly: Simple enough for kids to help make, this recipe is great for family bonding in the kitchen.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Baking pan (9×13 inch)
- Measuring cups
- Peeler
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all ingredients thoroughly without mess.
- Baking pan: A good quality pan ensures even baking and easy cleanup.
- Peeler: Makes peeling apples quick and efficient, saving you time.
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). 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 in the cake.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, chopped apples, and eggs. Mix until well blended; the batter should be smooth with no lumps.
Step 4: Pour Batter into Pan
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Spread it evenly across the surface to ensure consistent baking.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Place the pan in your preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar if desired before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade 3 Ingredient Apple Cake!
How to Serve 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
Serving your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake can elevate the experience for you and your guests. This simple yet delicious cake pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments, making it a versatile dessert choice.
With Vanilla Ice Cream
- A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast to the warm apple cake. The cold and creamy texture balances the sweet flavors perfectly.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Lightly whipped cream creates a fluffy topping that enhances the cake’s taste without overpowering it. You can add a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- A drizzle of rich caramel sauce makes this cake even more indulgent. The sweet, sticky sauce complements the apples beautifully.
Served with Fresh Berries
- Fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries bring a tartness that cuts through the sweetness. They also add a pop of color to your plate.
Accompanied by Nuts
- Chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, provide a crunchy texture and nutty flavor. They can be sprinkled on top or served on the side.
Paired with Coffee or Tea
- Enjoying your apple cake with a hot cup of coffee or tea enhances the overall experience. The warmth of the drink complements the cake perfectly.

How to Perfect 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
To ensure your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.
- Use fresh apples: Fresh, crisp apples will give your cake better flavor and texture than older ones.
- Mix gently: Combine ingredients just until they are blended to avoid overmixing, which can result in a dense cake.
- Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is done baking.
- Cool before slicing: Allowing the cake to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing helps maintain its structure.
- Experiment with spices: Adding cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the apple flavor and provide warmth.
- Store properly: Keep leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for optimal freshness.
Best Side Dishes for 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
Pairing side dishes with your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake can create a more balanced meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Vanilla Yogurt: A dollop of vanilla yogurt offers creaminess and tang that pairs well with the sweetness of the cake.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses complements the dessert while providing savory notes.
- Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad dressed in vinaigrette adds freshness and balances out the sweetness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables create a hearty side that contrasts nicely with dessert.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: For those who prefer savory sides, creamy mashed potatoes add comfort to this meal.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate after enjoying a slice of apple cake.
- Savory Quiche: A slice of quiche brings richness and depth, making it an excellent brunch pairing.
- Chocolate Mousse: For chocolate lovers, this rich dessert offers a decadent contrast to the fruity apple cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a 3 Ingredient Apple Cake, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes and how to steer clear of them.
- Using the wrong apple variety: Some apples are better for baking than others. Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key in baking. Use measuring cups for dry and liquid ingredients to ensure your cake rises properly.
- Skipping the greasing step: Failing to grease your baking pan can lead to a stuck cake. Always use cooking spray or butter to prevent this issue.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make your cake dense. Blend just until ingredients are combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Not checking for doneness: Relying solely on time can be misleading. Use a toothpick to check if the cake is cooked through before taking it out of the oven.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover 3 Ingredient Apple Cake in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
- Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm individual slices for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat a slice for 20-30 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making a 3 Ingredient Apple Cake.
Can I use other cake mixes for the 3 Ingredient Apple Cake?
Yes! You can experiment with different flavors like spice or vanilla cake mix for unique tastes.
How do I ensure my apples stay fresh in the cake?
Choose firm apples and store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain their freshness.
What can I add to the basic recipe of 3 Ingredient Apple Cake?
You can customize your cake by adding nuts, cinnamon, or caramel bits for extra flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for Weight Watchers?
Absolutely! The simplicity of this recipe aligns well with many dietary plans, including Weight Watchers.
Final Thoughts
This 3 Ingredient Apple Cake is not only easy to make but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it warm as a dessert or cold with breakfast, this cake is sure to please. Feel free to customize with your favorite add-ins!
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: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
3 Ingredient Apple Cake is a delightful and easy dessert that combines the sweet essence of fresh apples with the convenience of a cake mix. Perfect for any occasion, this moist and flavorful cake can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it an ideal treat for family gatherings, holidays, or cozy nights at home. With only three simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious dessert in no time. Add your favorite toppings like whipped cream or caramel to elevate the experience and impress your guests!
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 the apples into uniform 1/2-inch pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, chopped apples, and eggs. Mix until smooth and blended.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow cooling for about 10 minutes before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg





