3 Ingredient Apple Cake

Featured in Sweet Moments of Joy.

This three ingredient apple cake brings together yellow cake mix, fresh apples, and eggs for a fuss-free dessert. The batter mixes quickly, then bakes into a moist, tender cake packed with juicy apple pieces. Enjoy a slice straight from the pan, warm or at room temperature. Perfect for gatherings, coffee breaks, or weeknight sweets, this effortless cake delivers big comfort with minimal effort. Just preheat, mix, pour, bake, and let the fresh apple aroma fill your kitchen. Cut into generous squares and serve as the ultimate easy, fruity indulgence.

Barbara Chef
Updated on Thu, 26 Jun 2025 14:50:33 GMT
A slice of apple pie on a plate. Pin it
A slice of apple pie on a plate. | gracefulflavors.com

Effortless apple cake never goes out of style and this recipe comes together in no time with only three ingredients making it my top choice for easy baking days You only need fresh apples cake mix and eggs for a treat that always delights

I started making this cake for last minute family get togethers and now it is a go to whenever I have extra apples on hand My crew never guesses it comes from a mix

Ingredients

  • Yellow cake mix: brings all the sweetness fluffiness and flavor in one convenient box Look for a good quality mix without artificial aftertastes
  • Chopped fresh apples: add moisture texture and a genuine apple flavor Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are my favorites for their tartness and hold
  • Eggs: give the cake its lift So fresh eggs are best for a light crumb and fluffy result

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Oven and Pan:
Preheat your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit This ensures an even rise and perfect bake Lightly grease a nine by thirteen inch baking pan so nothing sticks
Mix Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl add the yellow cake mix chopped apples and eggs Stir steadily until you see no dry patches The batter should be smooth but expect apple chunks
Bake the Cake:
Spoon the batter into the greased pan Use a spatula to spread it all the way into the corners for an even thickness across the pan
Check Doneness:
Bake for thirty five to forty minutes The top should be golden and springy Insert a toothpick in the center If it comes out with only moist crumbs the cake is done
Cool and Serve:
Let the cake cool in the pan for five to ten minutes so slices hold their shape Serve it warm or let it cool for a firmer texture If sharing do not forget a dusting of powdered sugar
A slice of apple pie on a plate. Pin it
A slice of apple pie on a plate. | gracefulflavors.com

Every celebration my grandmother sliced this cake with wide grins at the table and the sweet apple scent would fill the kitchen It is an ingredient I now associate with happy occasions

Storage Tips

This cake stays moist for a few days if covered tightly Cool it completely before wrapping to avoid sogginess For longer freshness store slices in the fridge and bring them to room temperature before serving You can also freeze individual portions well wrapped for up to a month

Ingredient Substitutions

Canned apple pie filling works if you are in a pinch but reduce the eggs to two to keep texture balanced Any boxed cake mix such as spice or vanilla can be swapped for a different twist Pears bring a mellow flavor if apples are not on hand

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy with a scoop of vanilla ice cream warm caramel drizzle or just a sprinkle of powdered sugar This cake fits casual afternoons with coffee and can be dressed up for parties with whipped cream and extra apple slices

A slice of apple pie on a plate. Pin it
A slice of apple pie on a plate. | gracefulflavors.com

Cultural and Historical Context

Many cultures have their own take on simple apple desserts Often a sign of hospitality apple cakes show up at celebrations because apples are always available and loved by young and old alike Boxed cake mixes have made home baking familiar and quick for generations

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of apples work best?

Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp provide great texture and flavor, but any fresh apple will work.

→ Can I use homemade cake mix?

Yes, homemade yellow cake mix can replace a boxed mix. Adjust sugar and flour for equivalent results.

→ How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the cake’s center. If it comes out clean or with few crumbs, it's ready.

→ Should the apples be peeled?

Peeling is optional. Peeled apples give a softer result, while unpeeled apples add some rustic texture.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Cool completely, cover tightly, and keep at room temperature for a day, or refrigerate for up to five days.

3 Ingredient Apple Cake

Soft cake bursting with apple flavor, easy to make with just three basic pantry staples.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
40 Minutes
Total Time
50 Minutes
By: Barbara


Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 12 Servings

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 1 box yellow cake mix (approximately 432 g)
02 2 cups chopped fresh apples
03 3 large eggs

Instructions

Step 01

Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease a 23×33 cm (9×13 inch) baking pan to prevent sticking.

Step 02

In a large mixing bowl, add yellow cake mix, chopped fresh apples, and eggs. Mix thoroughly until the batter is smooth and well incorporated.

Step 03

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan using a spatula.

Step 04

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.

Step 05

Remove pan from oven. Allow cake to cool briefly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  1. For optimal flavor and moisture, use crisp, tart apple varieties such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.

Tools You'll Need

  • 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking pan
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Spatula
  • Toothpick

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains eggs and wheat (from cake mix).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 215
  • Total Fat: 4 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 38 g
  • Protein: 3 g