Enjoy the simplicity and sweetness of this effortless 3 Ingredient Apple Cake! This delightful dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or craving a comforting treat at home. With just three simple ingredients, this cake is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. The combination of fresh apples and cake mix creates a moist, delicious cake that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With only three ingredients, this recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy bakers.
- Deliciously Versatile: Enjoy it as a dessert or a sweet breakfast option; it’s great anytime!
- Moist and Flavorful: Fresh apples add natural sweetness and moisture, elevating the taste of the cake.
- Minimal Cleanup: One mixing bowl and a baking pan mean less mess and more enjoyment.
- Kid-Friendly: This recipe is simple enough for kids to help with, making it a fun family activity.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating this delicious treat.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Oven
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining your ingredients evenly.
- Spatula: Helps in spreading the batter smoothly in the pan for even baking.
- Baking pan: A 9×13 inch size is perfect for this recipe to achieve the right thickness.
- Oven: The heart of the baking process; ensures that your cake cooks thoroughly.
Ingredients
Enjoy the simplicity and sweetness of this effortless cake!
For the Cake
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 2 cups chopped fresh apples
- 3 eggs
How to Make 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. 1 box yellow cake mix
2. 2 cups chopped fresh apples
3. 3 eggs
Stir until the mixture is well blended and smooth.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Spread it evenly with your spatula.
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 into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature for delightful enjoyment!
How to Serve 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
Serving your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake can be a delightful experience. This cake is versatile and can cater to various tastes. Here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your dessert.
Warm with Ice Cream
- Serve slices of the warm apple cake topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast of temperatures.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- Add a rich layer of caramel sauce on top or alongside the cake for an extra sweet touch that complements the apples perfectly.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- A dollop of whipped cream adds lightness and creaminess, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Accompanied by Fresh Fruit
- Serve with a side of fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the cake.
With a Dusting of Powdered Sugar
- Lightly dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar for an elegant finish that enhances its visual appeal.
Paired with Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy your cake alongside a cup of coffee or tea to create a cozy afternoon treat that’s perfect for any gathering.
How to Perfect 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
To make sure your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Apples: Choosing firm, fresh apples will enhance the flavor and texture of the cake.
- Mix Gently: Stir the ingredients just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the baking time; start checking at 35 minutes to prevent drying out.
- Let It Cool: Allowing the cake to cool slightly before serving helps it set up better and makes slicing easier.
- Experiment with Spices: Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile without adding complexity.
- 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 your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal or snack. Here are some fantastic options that complement this delightful dessert.
- Vanilla Yogurt: A creamy addition that adds tanginess and pairs well with the sweetness of the cake.
- Fruit Salad: A mixture of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances out the richness of the dessert.
- Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda; their creamy textures contrast beautifully with the cake.
- Nut Mix: A selection of roasted nuts adds crunch and nuttiness, enhancing overall flavor complexity.
- Granola Parfait: Layer granola and yogurt together for a crunchy, satisfying side that complements your dessert.
- Chia Seed Pudding: This healthy option offers a unique texture, making it an interesting pairing with apple cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake, it’s easy to encounter a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Not Preheating the Oven: Skipping this step can result in uneven baking. Always preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before placing the cake inside.
- Using Overripe Apples: Using apples that are too soft can lead to a mushy texture. Choose firm, fresh apples for the best results in your cake.
- Not Greasing the Pan Properly: If you don’t grease the baking pan well, your cake might stick. Make sure to coat the pan generously with oil or butter.
- Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can make the cake dense. Stir just until all ingredients are combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Ignoring Baking Time: Every oven is different; always check for doneness with a toothpick instead of relying solely on time. This ensures perfect baking every time.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before sealing it to avoid condensation.
Freezing 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months for best flavor.
Reheating 3 Ingredient Apple Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake slices for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 20-30 seconds on high, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding the 3 Ingredient Apple Cake that might help you.
How do I make my 3 Ingredient Apple Cake more flavorful?
Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor. You can also mix in nuts or raisins for added texture.
Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Absolutely! Pears or peaches work wonderfully as alternatives, creating unique flavors while keeping the recipe simple.
What type of yellow cake mix should I use?
Any standard yellow cake mix will work well. Opt for one without additives or extra flavors for the best results.
How do I store leftover 3 Ingredient Apple Cake?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate it for longer freshness.
Final Thoughts
This 3 Ingredient Apple Cake is not only simple but also adaptable to various tastes and preferences. Whether enjoyed as a dessert or breakfast treat, its versatility makes it a great addition to any table. Feel free to customize it with spices, nuts, or other fruits!
3 Ingredient Apple Cake
Indulge in the delightful simplicity of this 3 Ingredient Apple Cake, a perfect dessert for any occasion. With just three easy-to-find ingredients, you can create a moist and flavorful cake that brings the natural sweetness of fresh apples to the forefront. This cake is incredibly versatile; it can be enjoyed warm with ice cream or served as a comforting breakfast treat. Ideal for busy bakers, the minimal cleanup means you can spend more time savoring each bite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself at home, this cake is sure to impress family and friends alike.
- 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 mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, chopped apples, and eggs. Stir until smooth and blended.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow cooling slightly before cutting into squares 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 piece (approximately 80g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg