The 3 Ingredient Apple Cake is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that brings together the sweetness of apples with the convenience of a cake mix. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is both comforting and delicious. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just treating yourself, its simplicity and flavor will impress everyone. Plus, it uses only three ingredients, making it an ideal choice for those busy days when you crave something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For Garnish
- How to Make 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Mix Ingredients
- Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Step 4: Check Doneness
- Step 5: Cool and Serve
- How to Serve 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
- Pair with Ice Cream
- Drizzle with Caramel Sauce
- Top with Whipped Cream
- Serve with Fresh Fruit
- 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 so easy?
- Can I use different types of apples in my cake?
- How do I know when my 3 Ingredient Apple Cake is done?
- Can I add spices to my apple cake?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just three simple ingredients, this cake comes together in no time.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh apples and yellow cake mix creates a moist and flavorful dessert.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm with ice cream or at room temperature as a snack or dessert.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for potlucks, birthdays, or simply as an everyday treat.
- Minimal Cleanup: One bowl mixing means less mess in your kitchen!
Tools and Preparation
To make your baking experience smooth, having the right tools on hand is essential. These items will help you create the perfect 3 Ingredient Apple Cake without any hassle.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Oven
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing Bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine your ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
- Spatula: This tool helps you spread the batter evenly in the pan, ensuring consistent baking.
- 9×13 Inch Baking Pan: The ideal size for this cake ensures even cooking and ample space for rising.
- Oven: Proper preheating guarantees that your cake bakes evenly and comes out perfectly fluffy.
Ingredients
Enjoy the simplicity and sweetness of this effortless cake!
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 2 cups chopped fresh apples
- 3 eggs
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to ensure the cake does not stick.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, chopped fresh apples, and eggs. Stir until the mixture is well blended and smooth.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the pan.
Step 4: Check Doneness
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before cutting. Serve warm or at room temperature for a delightful treat!
How to Serve 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
Serving your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake can elevate the experience and make it even more enjoyable. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, here are some delightful serving suggestions.
Pair with Ice Cream
- Vanilla ice cream adds a creamy contrast to the warm cake.
- A scoop of caramel ice cream brings out the apple flavors.
Drizzle with Caramel Sauce
- Warm caramel sauce enhances the sweetness of the cake.
- A light drizzle over each slice creates an attractive presentation.
Top with Whipped Cream
- Fresh whipped cream provides a light and airy topping.
- Sprinkle some cinnamon on top for extra flavor.
Serve with Fresh Fruit
- Fresh berries or sliced bananas complement the cake’s texture.
- A fruit salad can offer a refreshing balance to the sweet cake.
How to Perfect 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
To ensure your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake turns out perfectly, follow these simple tips.
- Use fresh apples: Fresh apples will provide the best flavor and moisture to your cake.
- Mix well: Ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined for an even bake.
- Check oven temperature: An accurate oven temperature is crucial for proper baking; invest in an oven thermometer if needed.
- Experiment with spices: Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the apple flavor in your cake.

Best Side Dishes for 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
To create a well-rounded meal, consider serving your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake alongside these tasty side dishes. They are sure to complement your dessert beautifully.
- Vanilla Yogurt: A dollop of vanilla yogurt pairs nicely and adds a tangy contrast.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette can balance the sweetness of the cake.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can offer a savory touch to your meal.
- Roasted Nuts: Crunchy roasted nuts provide texture and make for a great snack alongside dessert.
- Grilled Peaches: Sweet grilled peaches add another layer of fruity goodness to your table.
- Chocolate Sauce: For chocolate lovers, drizzling some chocolate sauce over slices can be delightful.
These options will not only enhance your dining experience but also satisfy various taste preferences!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can be tricky, and even simple recipes like the 3 Ingredient Apple Cake have their pitfalls. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
Skipping the Greasing Step: Not greasing your baking pan can lead to a cake that sticks. Always ensure your pan is well-greased to make serving easier.
Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can result in a dense cake. Stir just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
Using Warm Ingredients: If your eggs are cold, it can affect how well they mix with the other ingredients. Let them reach room temperature for better results.
Not Checking Doneness Early: Leaving the cake in the oven too long can dry it out. Check for doneness at 35 minutes to ensure it remains moist.
Ignoring Apple Variety: Using apples that are too tart or soft may change the taste and texture. Choose firm, sweet apples for the best flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.
Reheating 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat a slice on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this 3 Ingredient Apple Cake so easy?
This recipe is simple because it requires only three ingredients, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
Can I use different types of apples in my cake?
Absolutely! Different apple varieties can enhance the flavor. Try using Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for sweetness.
How do I know when my 3 Ingredient Apple Cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready!
Can I add spices to my apple cake?
Yes! Cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor without complicating the recipe. Just add a teaspoon of your favorite spice to the batter.
Final Thoughts
The 3 Ingredient Apple Cake is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts or spices to suit your taste preferences. This delightful dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s breakfast or an afternoon snack. Give it a try and enjoy its simplicity and deliciousness!
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3 Ingredient Apple Cake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the simplicity and deliciousness of our 3 Ingredient Apple Cake, a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of fresh apples with the ease of a cake mix. This cake is perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. It requires minimal effort and only three ingredients, making it a go-to recipe for busy days when you crave something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen. The result is a moist and flavorful cake that will impress family and friends alike. Serve it warm, topped with ice cream or whipped cream, for an irresistible treat that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 2 cups chopped fresh apples
- 3 eggs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, chopped apples, and eggs. Mix until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool briefly before slicing and serving warm or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg