With just three simple ingredients, this 3 Ingredient Apple Cake is a delightful treat that will impress your family and friends. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy brunch or a sweet dessert after dinner, this cake brings together the sweetness of fresh apples and the ease of a box mix. The best part? It tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, but it’s ready in under an hour!

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: Mix 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 Whipped Cream
- À La Mode
- Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- Fresh Fruit Garnish
- With Nuts
- Dusting of Cinnamon Sugar
- 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?
- How do I make this cake gluten-free?
- What toppings pair well with 3 Ingredient Apple Cake?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With only three main ingredients, anyone can whip up this cake in no time.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of yellow cake mix and fresh apples creates a moist and flavorful dessert.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain, or dress it up with powdered sugar or whipped cream.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this cake fits right in.
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a warm cake ready to serve.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking pan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or mixer
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking pan: Ensures even cooking and gives your cake its shape.
- Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining all ingredients thoroughly.
- Whisk or mixer: Helps achieve a smooth batter without lumps.
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 using 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 large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, chopped apples, and eggs. Mix until all ingredients are well blended.
Step 4: Pour Batter into Pan
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Spread it evenly using a spatula to ensure uniform baking.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The cake should turn golden brown and feel set in the center when done.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes before serving. If desired, dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. Enjoy!
How to Serve 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
Serving your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake can elevate the dessert experience. Here are some delightful ideas that complement its sweet, apple-filled flavor.
With Whipped Cream
- Light and fluffy whipped cream adds a creamy touch that balances the cake’s sweetness.
À La Mode
- Top each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast of temperatures and textures.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- A warm drizzle of caramel sauce over the cake enhances its richness and brings out the apple flavor.
Fresh Fruit Garnish
- Serve alongside fresh apple slices or berries for a refreshing burst of flavor and color on the plate.
With Nuts
- Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and a nutty taste that complements the cake.
Dusting of Cinnamon Sugar
- A light dusting of cinnamon sugar can add an extra layer of warmth and spice to each bite.

How to Perfect 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
To ensure your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips.
- Use fresh apples: Fresh apples enhance the flavor and texture, making your cake more delicious.
- Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy; overmixing may lead to a dense texture.
- Check doneness: Use a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when your cake is ready.
- Experiment with spices: Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the taste profile of your cake.
- Cool before serving: Allow the cake to cool slightly for easier slicing and better flavor development.
- Store properly: Keep any leftovers covered 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 enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that offers cool creaminess against warm cake.
- Cinnamon Apples: Sautéed apples with cinnamon provide an extra fruity dimension.
- Caramel Sauce: This decadent addition brings richness and sweetness to each bite.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage complements dessert beautifully, making it perfect for afternoon tea.
- Cheese Plate: Assorted cheeses offer a savory contrast to the sweet flavors of the cake.
- Pecan Pie Bars: For those who love nuts, these bars provide an earthy crunch alongside soft cake.
- Sweet Potato Mash: This side dish adds a creamy texture that pairs well with apple flavors.
- Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with vinaigrette cuts through the sweetness, balancing your meal perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many bakers encounter issues while making their 3 Ingredient Apple Cake. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping the greasing step: Not greasing your baking pan can lead to a cake that sticks. Always use cooking spray or butter to ensure easy removal.
- Using unpeeled apples: Leaving the skin on can alter the texture and flavor. Always peel your apples for a smoother cake.
- Not chopping apples uniformly: Inconsistent apple sizes can cause uneven baking. Chop apples into uniform 1/2-inch pieces for even distribution.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can make the cake dense. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a light, fluffy texture.
- Not checking doneness: Baking too long or not long enough can ruin your cake. Always check for golden brown color and set texture before removing it from the oven.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
- Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- 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.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
- Stovetop: Use 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 uses a simple yellow cake mix as a base, making it quick and easy for all skill levels.
Can I use different types of apples?
Absolutely! You can experiment with various apple varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for unique flavors in your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake.
How do I make this cake gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free yellow cake mix instead of regular.
What toppings pair well with 3 Ingredient Apple Cake?
Consider serving with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or caramel sauce for added sweetness and flavor.
Final Thoughts
The 3 Ingredient Apple Cake is not only simple but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding nuts, spices, or different fruits. Try this delightful recipe and enjoy its warm, comforting flavors!
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3 Ingredient Apple Cake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of this 3 Ingredient Apple Cake, a delightful dessert that marries the sweetness of fresh apples with the simplicity of a yellow cake mix. This easy-to-make cake is perfect for any occasion, whether enjoyed as a cozy brunch treat or a sweet evening dessert. With just three components and minimal effort, you’ll have a warm, moist cake ready to impress in under an hour. Dust it with powdered sugar, serve it with whipped cream or ice cream, or enjoy it plain—this versatile apple cake is sure to become a favorite in your household.
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 your baking pan.
- Peel and chop the apples into uniform 1/2-inch pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, chopped apples, and eggs. Mix until well blended.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and set in the center.
- Cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (60g)
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg