With just a few simple ingredients, this 3 Ingredient Apple Cake is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed at any time. Perfect for gatherings, brunches, or simply as a cozy dessert at home, this cake brings the warmth of baked apples and sweet flavors into your kitchen. Its ease of preparation and delicious results make it a standout recipe that appears more complex than it truly is.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Cake
- How to Make 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Prepare the Apples
- Step 3: Mix Ingredients Together
- Step 4: Pour Batter Into Pan
- Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Step 6: Cool and Serve
- How to Serve 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
- A La Mode
- Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- Whipped Cream Topping
- 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 a quick apple cake?
- Can I use other types of apples?
- Is there a gluten-free option?
- How can I customize my apple cake?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With only three main ingredients, you can whip up this cake in no time.
- Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of apples and cake mix creates a moist and flavorful dessert.
- Versatile Enjoyment: Serve it warm with ice cream, or enjoy it plain for a quick breakfast treat.
- Perfect for Occasions: Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual get-together, this cake fits right in.
- Kid-Friendly: It’s an easy recipe that kids can help with, making baking fun for the whole family.
Tools and Preparation
Before starting your baking adventure, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking pan (9×13-inch preferred)
- Whisk or spatula
- Peeler (for apples)
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows for easy mixing of ingredients without spillage.
- Baking pan: A good-quality pan ensures even baking and prevents sticking.
- Peeler: Makes peeling apples quick and safe, allowing you to prepare them efficiently.
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
- 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 ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Peel and chop the apples into uniform 1/2-inch pieces. This helps them cook evenly within the cake.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients Together
In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, chopped apples, and eggs. Stir until everything is well blended.
Step 4: Pour Batter Into Pan
Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Place the pan in the preheated oven. Bake for about 35-40 minutes until golden brown and set in the middle.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes before serving. You can dust it with powdered sugar if desired for an extra touch of sweetness. Enjoy!
How to Serve 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
Serving your delicious 3 Ingredient Apple Cake can elevate the experience for your guests. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this tasty treat.
A La Mode
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a delicious contrast of warm cake and cold ice cream.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- Add a drizzle of caramel sauce over each slice for a sweet, sticky finish that complements the apples perfectly.
Whipped Cream Topping
- Top slices with freshly whipped cream to add a light, airy touch that balances the cake’s richness.
Fresh Fruit Garnish
- Garnish each serving with fresh apple slices or berries to enhance the freshness and visual appeal of the dessert.
Coffee Pairing
- Pair your cake with a cup of coffee or tea to bring out its flavors. The warmth of the drink complements the spices in the cake.

How to Perfect 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
To ensure your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake comes out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Apples: Fresh apples will provide better flavor and texture compared to canned or frozen options.
- Mix Thoroughly: Ensure that the cake mix, eggs, and apples are well combined to achieve an even texture throughout the cake.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean when the cake is done baking.
- Cool Before Serving: Allowing the cake to cool for at least 10 minutes will make it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.
Best Side Dishes for 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
Pairing side dishes with your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options:
- Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic choice that adds creaminess and enhances the apple flavor.
- Greek Yogurt – Provides a tangy contrast and adds protein, making it a healthier option.
- Mixed Berry Salad – A refreshing side that adds brightness and acidity, complementing the sweetness of the cake.
- Pecan Pie Bars – Another dessert that pairs well together; their crunchiness offers a nice textural contrast.
- Cheese Platter – Include cheeses like brie or cheddar; their savory notes balance out the sweetness of the cake.
- Spiced Nuts – Roasted nuts seasoned with spices add crunchiness and flavor diversity alongside your cake.
- Coffee or Tea – A warm beverage enhances flavors, making each bite of cake even more enjoyable.
- Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips – Crispy chips dusted with cinnamon sugar give another layer of flavor that pairs well with apples.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a 3 Ingredient Apple Cake is simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin your experience. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:
- Skipping the greasing step: Not greasing your pan can cause the cake to stick, making it difficult to serve. Always grease your baking pan thoroughly.
- Using unpeeled apples: Leaving the skin on can affect the texture and taste of your cake. Make sure to peel and chop the apples into uniform pieces for the best results.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Combine the ingredients until just blended for a light and fluffy texture.
- Not checking for doneness: Baking times may vary based on your oven. Use a toothpick to test if it comes out clean before removing the cake from the oven.
- Skipping cooling time: Cutting into the cake too soon can lead to crumbling. Allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
- Wrap slices tightly 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 warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about this delightful dessert:
What makes this a quick apple cake?
The 3 Ingredient Apple Cake uses minimal ingredients, making it easy and quick to prepare without sacrificing flavor.
Can I use other types of apples?
Yes! Any sweet apple variety will work well. Try Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith for different flavors.
Is there a gluten-free option?
You can substitute yellow cake mix with a gluten-free version to make this recipe gluten-free while maintaining its deliciousness.
How can I customize my apple cake?
Feel free to add nuts, raisins, or spices like cinnamon for extra flavor and texture options.
Final Thoughts
This 3 Ingredient Apple Cake is not only easy to make but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize it with nuts or spices, making it personal. Try this recipe today and indulge in its comforting flavors!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print3 Ingredient Apple Cake
Indulge in the comforting flavors of a 3 Ingredient Apple Cake, a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With just three simple ingredients—yellow cake mix, fresh apples, and eggs—this quick and easy dessert is sure to impress your family and friends. The warm aroma of baked apples fills your kitchen as this cake bakes to golden perfection, creating a moist and flavorful experience that feels more elaborate than it truly is. Whether served warm with ice cream or enjoyed plain, this apple cake is a cozy addition to brunches, gatherings, or simply as an afternoon snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 2 cups fresh apples, peeled and chopped
- 3 large eggs
- Cooking spray or butter (for greasing)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
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 until well blended.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set in the center.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before serving; dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg