Oh my goodness, you guys, get ready! I’m about to share a secret that’s been lifesaver in my house. A little slice of heaven. Is this recipe so easy? We’re talking about a **3-Ingredient Apple Cake**, and no, I’m not kidding. I remember the first time I made this – I was staring at a pile of apples. A serious sweet craving. If you have zero desire to spend hours in the kitchen, you can’t spend any time in it. I stumbled upon this recipe, and honestly, it changed my life. Forget complicated recipes with endless steps. This is pure, simple, apple-y goodness. Think warm spices, soft textures, and a whole lotta love in every bite. Isn’t it better than my grandma’s apple pie?
What is a 3-ingredient apple cake?
What is an apple cake? What exactly is the music like? What are some of the best ways to enjoy apples as a dessert? Is this a simplified version of apple cake? The core concept revolves around combining a few key ingredients to create tender, smoky, flavorful dessert. What are some of the What is the magic of simple elements? I’m short on time, ingredients, or patience (we’ve all been there! ). What are some of the best desserts to serve at the last minute?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I even begin? Let me tell you why this **3-Ingredient Apple Cake** has become a staple in my home. First and foremost, it’s all about the flavorThe combination of the apples, a little something sweet and spice creates the most delicious dessert. What are some of the best comfort foods Each bite is a burst of warmth and homey goodness. What is the aroma of baking? What is that smell that makes your kitchen smell amazing? What is the third category?simplicityIs this recipe a game changer on busy weeknights? No endless mixing bowls, no complicated techniques – just a few simple steps, and you’re on your way. Is cake heaven? What I love most about this is the fact that I can’t get enough of it.Cost-This cake is ridiculously budget-friendly, making it perfect for those times when you want something unique. How do you make a special occasion without breaking the bank? What are the ingredients in a pantry?versatility! You can enjoy this cake warm, cold, plain, or dressed up with a little glaze. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. I’ve made so many different versions of apple cake over the years, but this one consistently comes out on top. It’s a true testament to how simple ingredients, combined with a little love, can create something truly amazing.
How do you make a 3-ingredient apple cake?
Quick Overview
What is the recipe for this **3-Ingredient Apple Cake**? How do you start by combining all the ingredients? How do I make a batter for sprinkling in the oven? Once it’s golden brown and cooked through, you let it cool, and you’re ready to enjoy a slice of pizza. What is the easiest cake recipe you’ve ever found? Is simplicity a superpower?
Ingredients
For the Main Batter: What is the main B
* 3-4 medium-sized, firm apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work great! ), peeled, cored and diced into small pieces. The quality of your apples makes all the difference. I usually aim for the crisper ones because they hold their shape better during baking and add a nice texture. * 1 box yellow cake mix (about 15-16 ounces) Is gluten free cake mix good? Is it a cake mix? * 1 cup of water, or apple cider for added flavor!
For the Filling:
Is it necessary to mix ground cinnamon with ground nutmeg? What are some of the best ways to enhance apple flavor? What are some good substitutes for pecans? Is it strictly necessary but I highly recommend it!
For the Glaze:
* Powdered sugar (about 1 cup), mixed with a tablespoon of milk or apple cider. How do I get a glaze that is thick enough to drizzle but not too runny? Is it possible to experiment with different flavors of vanilla extract?
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13 inch baking pan and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter. This prevents the cake from sticking and makes it super easy to get those perfect slices. I’ve learned the hard way that skipping this step is a mistake! I usually like to line the bottom with parchment paper as well for extra insurance.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, pour in your cake mix and add the cinnamon and nutmeg (if using). Use a whisk to combine the dry ingredients, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed. What is the best way to create a consistent flavor for ice cream? You want to avoid any clumps, so a good whisking is essential here!
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl (or even the bowl you used for the dry ingredients), pour in the water or apple. Now add diced apples to your recipe. Be sure to mix them with your wet ingredients before adding the dry ones. Doing it this way makes the mixing easier.
Step 4: Combine
Gently pour the wet apple mixture into the bowl with the cake mix. How do you fold everything together using a spatula or wooden spoon? Do not overmix; a few lumps are fine. If you overmix a batter, you’ll end up with an uneven cake. Make sure to use sour cream and icing sugar. What are the ingredients that What is the most important step to take?
Step 5: Prepare Filling
If you’re using the optional cinnamon and nutmeg, add them to the apple pieces before you add the honey. How do I distribute the flavor evenly on a cake? If you are going to add chopped nuts, you can now prepare them. What are some good ways to chop onions and set them aside until you are ready to add them to the batter?
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. At this point, you can add the nuts, if you are using them. You can also add more apple pieces on top, so that they are visible after baking. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. I like to watch the cake closely towards the end of baking, since oven temperatures vary. The top should be golden brown and the cake should spring back slightly when touched.
Step 7: Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. In the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on your cake! Oven temperatures can vary, so it’s best to check for doneness towards the end of the baking time. I like to rotate the pan halfway through the baking process for even baking. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent it with foil.
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. How do you make a glaze by whisking powdered sugar with milk (or apple cider) until you reach your desired consistency. What is your desired consistency? If the cake is still too hot when you glaze it, the glaze might melt. So, patience is key here! Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top. I love to make a simple drizzle pattern or just let the glaze flow randomly—it all looks delicious!
Step 9: Slice & Serve
Let the glaze set for a few minutes. How do you slice a cake into squares? What makes this cake delicious? Sometimes I add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Is it perfect for any occasion?
What should I serve it with?
What is the beauty of this **3-Ingredient Apple Cake**? It’s a chameleon of desserts, perfectly suited for various occasions.breakfast, pair it with a steaming cup of coffee, or an ice cold glass of milk. What is a good way to start the day with cake? Can you serve it with a side of fresh fruit, such as berries or sliced oranges?brunch, consider adding a touch of elegance with honey or sprinkle of chopped nuts. The cake pairs perfectly with a fruit punch or mimosa. Arrange slices on a pretty platter, and watch your guests’ faces light up!dessert, this cake is a showstopper. Serve it warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. You can also add a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of decadence. Pair it with a glass of dessert wine or a cup of coffee for a perfect after-dinner treat. For cozy snacksIf you want to enjoy a slice of bread, simply cut yourself and serve it with ice cold water or tea. Sometimes I’ll add a little bit of yogurt or granola for added texture and flavor. What is a comforting cake?
How do you make a 3-ingredient apple cake?
After making countless versions of this **3-Ingredient Apple Cake**, I’ve learned a few tricks to make it taste good. How do I make sure my laptop is perfect every single time? What are some tips for ensuring your cake turns out amazing?Zucchini Prep:Make sure to peel the apples if you are adding the apple raw (not cooked into a sauce) or the skin. I always use granny smith or honey crisp. You can also use a variety of apples.Mixing Advice: Be careful not to overmix the batter! I’ve made this mistake many times. Overmixing can result in a tough cake. Mix until just combined. Swirl CustomizationIs it necessary to swirl a cake? If the batter is uneven, try to flatten it with a spatula.Ingredient Swaps:I’ve tested this recipe with different types of cake mixes. What is the best yellow cake mix? Could you use spice cake? If you don’t want to use the cake mix, you can use a basic vanilla sponge cake recipe. For a gluten-free version, use gluten free cake mix. Just make sure to follow the box instructions.Baking Tips: Keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. Oven temperatures can vary! The bake time can depend on the size of your apples, so use a toothpick to test for doneness. I always rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure even cooking. Glaze Variations: The glaze is all about personal preference. If you like it thicker, add more powdered sugar. If you want a stronger flavor, add a little cinnamon or vanilla extract. A little zest of lemon or orange goes a long way too. Trust me, a little patience and attention to detail go a long way in creating the perfect cake.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Trust me, that won’t happen often, but just in case, here’s how to store and reheat your delicious **3-Ingredient Apple Cake**. For room temperature storage, the cake will keep well for up to 2-3 days. Simply cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. For refrigerator storage, the cake can last for up to a week. Place the cake in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. The glaze may become slightly softer in the fridge. For freezer instructions, you can freeze the cake for up to 2-3 months. Wrap individual slices tightly with plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. To thaw, simply let the cake sit at room temperature for a few hours, or in the refrigerator overnight. For glaze timing advice, it’s best to add the glaze right before serving or after the cake has completely cooled. This prevents the glaze from melting and helps it maintain its beautiful appearance. I also prefer to keep the glaze separate and apply it to individual slices as needed, if I’m planning on freezing the cake.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
Well, there you have it – my absolute favorite, ridiculously simple **3-Ingredient Apple Cake**! I hope you love this recipe as much as my family and I do. It’s one of those dishes that always brings a smile to my face, and I hope it does the same for you. If you enjoy this recipe, you might also enjoy my other apple desserts, such as apple crisp or apple crumble. These are slightly more elaborate recipes, but they are just as tasty. This cake is proof that you don’t need to be a master baker or have a pantry full of ingredients to create something truly special. The combination of simple ingredients and easy steps makes this recipe a winner. Give it a try, and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to share your creations in the comments, rate the recipe, and let me know if you made any fun variations. Happy baking! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!
3-Ingredient Apple Cake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 box Yellow Cake Mix
- 20 oz Apple Pie Filling
- 0.25 cup Butter, melted
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine cake mix, apple pie filling, and melted butter. Mix until just combined.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cool completely before serving.
