If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug in every bite, this 3 Ingredient Apple Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s incredibly easy yet packed with cozy fall flavors, combining the sweetness of apples with the spicy warmth of cake mix, all brought together by simple ingredients. Whether you’re a busy parent, a novice baker, or just someone who loves quick and delicious treats, this apple cake will become your new go-to comfort dessert.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple, relying on just a few pantry staples that magically come together to create a moist and flavorful cake. Each ingredient plays a vital role, whether it’s adding moistness, flavor, or that perfect cozy texture.
- Spice cake mix: The star base with built-in cinnamon, nutmeg, and warm spices that perfectly complement apples.
- Apple pie filling: Packed with tender apple chunks and sweet syrup, it adds juicy bursts of flavor and moisture.
- Eggs: These bind everything together and provide the structure needed for a fluffy, tender crumb.
How to Make 3 Ingredient Apple Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures your cake bakes evenly from the start. While the oven warms up, spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and help the cake come out cleanly once baked.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients Together
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the spice cake mix, apple pie filling, and eggs. Using an electric mixer, blend everything until smooth and evenly combined. This step is quick but crucial because you want all the flavors to marry perfectly without overmixing.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the luscious batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once out of the oven, give it time to cool—it will be easier to slice and even more enjoyable to eat.
How to Serve 3 Ingredient Apple Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes this cake from simple to spectacular instantly. Sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg on top for an extra pop of warmth and color that will delight anyone at your table.
Side Dishes
This apple cake pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or a fragrant chai tea, enhancing its spice notes. You can also serve it alongside fresh fruit or a crunchy nut mix for added texture contrast on your dessert plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, cut the cake into petite squares and serve on decorative plates dusted lightly with powdered sugar. Another fun idea is to create apple cake parfaits by layering chunks of cake with cinnamon yogurt and caramel sauce in clear glasses.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, store them tightly wrapped or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain freshness. Refrigerating is also fine but may dry the cake out slightly, so be sure to cover it well.
Freezing
This 3 Ingredient Apple Cake recipe freezes wonderfully. Slice it into portions and wrap pieces individually in plastic wrap followed by foil to prevent freezer burn. They’ll keep beautifully for up to three months, perfect for quick dessert fixes.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy your frozen cake slices, let them thaw at room temperature, then warm gently in a microwave or oven for a few minutes. This refreshes the moist texture and enhances the warm apple aroma, almost like it just came out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use fresh apples instead of apple pie filling?
While this recipe calls for apple pie filling for its sweetness and syrupy texture, you can use fresh diced apples mixed with a bit of cinnamon and sugar. Just keep in mind it might slightly change the cake’s moisture and sweetness.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, look for a gluten-free spice cake mix and ensure your apple pie filling contains no gluten. It’s a simple substitution that still promises delicious results.
Can I add nuts or raisins to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding chopped walnuts or pecans and raisins can add delightful texture and flavor. Just fold them into the batter before baking for an extra special touch.
How long does the 3 Ingredient Apple Cake last?
Stored properly at room temperature, enjoy within 2 days for the best taste and texture. In the fridge, it can last up to 5 days but may lose some moisture.
What frosting pairs best with this apple cake?
A simple cream cheese frosting, lightly sweetened and flavored with a hint of vanilla or cinnamon, complements the spice and apple flavors beautifully without overpowering the cake.
Final Thoughts
This 3 Ingredient Apple Cake Recipe is proof that baking doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you get a comforting, crowd-pleasing dessert that feels homemade and special. Give it a try—you might just find your next signature dessert you’ll want to make again and again.
