The 3 Ingredient Apple Cake is a delightful treat that brings together simplicity and flavor in one easy recipe. Perfect for any occasion, this cake showcases the natural sweetness of fresh apples while being incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or looking for a quick dessert after dinner, this apple cake will surely impress your guests with its moist texture and rich taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just three ingredients, this recipe saves time without sacrificing flavor.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh apples and yellow cake mix creates a moist and flavorful cake.
- Versatile Dessert: Enjoy it as an afternoon snack, dessert, or even breakfast—this cake fits any time of day!
- Minimal Cleanup: One bowl is all you need for mixing, making cleanup a breeze.
- Perfect for Sharing: A crowd-pleaser that’s sure to be a hit at potlucks or family gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience. Having everything ready will make the process quicker and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Oven
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows ample space for mixing ingredients thoroughly.
- Spatula: Useful for spreading the batter evenly in the pan.
- 9×13 inch baking pan: The perfect size for even baking and easy serving.
- Oven: Essential for baking the cake to perfection.
Ingredients
Enjoy the simplicity and sweetness of this effortless cake!
Ingredients:
– 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 well so 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 about 35-40 minutes. To check if it’s done, 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. You can serve it warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious 3 Ingredient Apple Cake!
How to Serve 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
Serving your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake can elevate its appeal and make it a delightful treat for any occasion. Here are some creative ways to present this simple yet delicious cake.
With Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, the creamy texture of vanilla ice cream complements the warm apple cake beautifully.
- Caramel Swirl Ice Cream: This adds a rich flavor that enhances the sweetness of the apples in the cake.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Fresh Whipped Cream: Light and airy, homemade whipped cream is a perfect topping that adds a touch of elegance.
- Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider adding cinnamon or vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor.
Drizzled with Sauce
- Caramel Sauce: A warm caramel drizzle adds richness and depth to your apple cake.
- Chocolate Sauce: For chocolate lovers, this sweet addition offers a delightful contrast to the apple flavors.
Served with Fresh Fruit
- Sliced Strawberries: Their freshness balances the sweetness of the cake.
- Berries Medley: A mix of blueberries and raspberries provides a tart contrast that complements the cake perfectly.
How to Perfect 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
To ensure your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Choose Fresh Apples: The quality of your apples impacts the cake’s flavor. Use crisp, fresh apples for the best results.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake texture instead of a light and fluffy one.
- Check Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is properly calibrated. An incorrect temperature can affect baking time and doneness.
- Add Spices for Flavor: Consider adding ground cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra flavor boost that pairs well with apples.
Best Side Dishes for 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
Pairing side dishes with your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider:
- Vanilla Yogurt: This creamy side adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
- Cinnamon Sugar Pecans: Crunchy and sweet, these nuts provide a delightful textural contrast.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits can brighten up your dessert table and complement the apple flavors.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, especially sharp varieties, pairs wonderfully with sweet desserts like apple cake.
- Coffee or Tea: Warm beverages like coffee or tea enhance the flavors of the cake and provide a comforting experience.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: For those who crave more sweets, cookies add variety to your dessert spread while keeping it casual.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a 3 Ingredient Apple Cake can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are mistakes to avoid for perfect results.
- Using the wrong cake mix: Different cake mixes can affect the flavor and texture of your cake. Always use a yellow cake mix for the best results.
- Not chopping apples properly: If your apple pieces are too large, they won’t blend well into the batter. Chop them into small, even pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the cake.
- Skipping the greasing step: Forgetting to grease your baking pan may lead to a stuck cake. Use butter or cooking spray generously on the pan’s bottom and sides.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Stir just until everything is combined; a few lumps are okay.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Every oven is different. Always check your cake a few minutes before the recommended baking time to avoid overbaking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Make sure it cools completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.
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 on medium power for about 30 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat with a lid for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this 3 Ingredient Apple Cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free yellow cake mix as a substitute. The texture will remain similar, allowing everyone to enjoy it!
How can I customize my 3 Ingredient Apple Cake?
Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance flavor. You can also mix in nuts or raisins for added texture.
What type of apples work best for this apple cake?
While any apple works, tart varieties like Granny Smith add great flavor contrast. Sweet apples like Fuji also work well.
Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile; try using fresh berries or peaches for different flavors and textures.
Final Thoughts
This 3 Ingredient Apple Cake is not only easy but also deliciously adaptable. Whether you enjoy it as a dessert or breakfast treat, its simplicity will impress anyone who tries it. Don’t hesitate to customize with your favorite spices or fruits! Give it a try and enjoy the delightful flavors!
3 Ingredient Apple Cake
Indulge in the simplicity and delightful flavors of this 3 Ingredient Apple Cake. This quick and easy recipe combines fresh apples, yellow cake mix, and eggs to create a moist, flavorful dessert that’s perfect any time of day. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a cozy treat after dinner, this cake is sure to impress. With minimal cleanup and only three ingredients, it’s an ideal choice for bakers of all skill levels. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. Enjoy the natural sweetness of fresh apples in every bite!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
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. Stir until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes; check doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center.
- Allow cooling for a few minutes before serving warm or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (62g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Choose crisp, fresh apples for optimal flavor. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and fluffy. Add spices like cinnamon for an enhanced flavor profile.
