Name: Irresistibly Moist Apple Cake with Just 3 Ingredients
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 2 cups apple slices (fresh, tart apples); 1 cup granulated sugar (balances the tartness of apples); 1 cup all-purpose flour (provides structure)

As the sweet aroma of baking apples wafts through the air, I often find myself reminiscing about cozy afternoons in the kitchen, where simplicity reigns supreme. This 3 Ingredient Apple Cake is not just easy to whip up, but it’s also a delightful way to make use of fresh fruit—perfect for a family gathering or an impromptu dessert craving. With just apple slices, sugar, and flour, you'll have a warm, comforting cake that’s sure to impress without keeping you in the kitchen for hours. Whether enjoyed alone or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this Apple Cake is the kind of treat that brings joy without the fuss. Curious about how quickly you can bring this nostalgic recipe to life?

Why is this 3 Ingredient Apple Cake special?

Simplicity shines: With just three ingredients, this recipe is incredibly straightforward, allowing anyone to bake their own homemade treat.

Fresh flavors: The apple slices provide a burst of natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the sugar and flour, creating an irresistible dessert.

Quick to prepare: In just an hour, you can enjoy warm slices of cake, making it the perfect choice for last-minute gatherings!

Crowd-pleaser: This Apple Cake is a delightful way to impress friends and family while keeping it hassle-free—everyone will rave about the flavors.

Versatile enjoyment: Serve it warm, topped with vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce, or even as a delightful addition to your brunch spread alongside Baked Apple Chips.

Apple Cake Ingredients

For the Cake
• Apple slices – 2 cups of fresh, tart apples lend natural sweetness and moisture to this delightful treat.
• Granulated sugar – 1 cup sweetens the cake perfectly, balancing the tartness of the apples for a harmonious flavor.
• All-purpose flour – 1 cup acts as the structure, ensuring your Apple Cake has a lovely texture that’s soft yet sturdy.

Feel free to get creative with this recipe; it’s all about bringing out the best apple flavors in your cake!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin your delightful journey by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for baking your Apple Cake to golden perfection. While the oven warms up, you can gather your ingredients and arrange your workspace for a smooth baking experience.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of apple slices, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 cup of all-purpose flour. Use a sturdy spatula or a wooden spoon to mix the ingredients thoroughly until the apples are evenly coated and the mixture is well blended. The batter will be thick and slightly chunky, which is just what you want for this Apple Cake.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a suitable baking dish, such as a 9x9-inch square pan, with butter or non-stick spray to prevent the cake from sticking. This step is crucial for ensuring your Apple Cake releases easily once baked. Pour the apple mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Bake the Cake
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes. You'll know your Apple Cake is done when the edges start to turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached. The aroma of baking apples will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!

Step 5: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, carefully remove the dish from the oven and allow the Apple Cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This cooling time is important, as it helps the cake set and makes it easier to cut into slices. The delightful scent of your warm Apple Cake will surely beckon everyone to the kitchen!

What to Serve with 3 Ingredient Apple Cake

There's something magical about pairing warm, sweet desserts with delightful sides and drinks to create the perfect meal.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a cool contrast to the warm apple cake, enhancing its flavors beautifully.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cake for a rich, indulgent touch that complements the sweet apples perfectly.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream balances the cake's density, making each bite feel even more luxurious.
Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea echo the cozy apple notes in the cake, creating a heartwarming experience.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A bright and refreshing fruit salad brings a burst of freshness, cutting through the sweetness of the cake.
Candied Nuts: Crunchy, sweet candied nuts offer a delightful texture contrast to the soft apple cake, making for a satisfying bite.

Pair these options together for an inviting table that celebrates both the love for homemade food and the joy of togetherness!

Make Ahead Options

These 3 Ingredient Apple Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the apple mixture (apple slices, sugar, and flour) up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the ingredients and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy your cake, pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and bake as directed. Just remember to give the mixture a gentle stir before pouring, as it may settle. This way, you'll have a delicious, quick dessert that comes together with minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings!

Apple Cake Variations to Try

Feel free to tweak this recipe to suit your taste and dietary preferences while enjoying delightful flavors!

Dairy-Free: Substitute the granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a lovely caramel taste. This simple swap adds an earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with apples.
Gluten-Free: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. This change ensures everyone can savor a slice without gluten, maintaining the lovely texture.
Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. The nuts provide a satisfying contrast to the soft cake and deepen the flavor profile.
Cinnamon Spice: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon before mixing. This warm spice infuses your Apple Cake with an inviting aroma that feels like a warm hug.
Savory Twist: For an unexpected flavor boost, mix in a pinch of sea salt or even some freshly grated ginger. This will balance the sweetness and enhance the overall taste experience.
Caramel Apple Delight: Drizzle some caramel sauce over the top before baking for an extra layer of indulgence. The melted caramel will create beautiful pockets of gooeyness throughout the cake.
Apple Variations: Use different apple varieties like Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness. Each apple brings its unique personality to the cake, making it a fun experiment!
Fruit Medley: Add a cup of mixed berries along with the apple slices. This twist creates a vibrant mix that enhances both appearance and flavor, perfect for summer gatherings.

Whether you're craving a cozy evening dessert or planning a family gathering, these Apple Cake variations will keep everyone coming back for more! For more apple-inspired treats, consider trying out Air Fryer Apple recipes or indulge in a delightful Air Fryer Apple Crisp for a comforting classic.

How to Store and Freeze Apple Cake

Room Temperature: Allow the Apple Cake to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Fridge: For longer freshness, keep your Apple Cake in the fridge in an airtight container. It will stay delicious for up to 5 days.

Freezer: If you want to enjoy your Apple Cake later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating: To enjoy your Apple Cake warm, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for around 10 minutes.

Expert Tips for Making Apple Cake

Don’t Overmix: Stir gently when combining the ingredients to keep the texture light and airy. Overmixing can lead to a dense Apple Cake.

Use Fresh Apples: Choose tart and crisp apples for maximum flavor and sweetness. Fresh apples will give your cake a juicy, delicious quality.

Watch the Baking Time: Begin checking your cake at 30 minutes. Ovens vary, so keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking and drying out the cake.

Cooling is Key: Allow the cake to cool for at least 10-15 minutes in the pan. This step ensures the cake holds its shape and is easy to serve.

Serving Suggestions: For an indulgent treat, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce to elevate your Apple Cake experience.

3 Ingredient Apple Cake Recipe FAQs

What apples are best for the cake?
Absolutely! I recommend using tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Their natural acidity balances the sweetness of the sugar and flour, resulting in a beautifully flavorful cake.

How should I store the Apple Cake?
After allowing the cake to cool completely, you can keep it at room temperature for up to 2 days covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. For extended freshness, store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. This way, it remains moist and delicious!

Can I freeze this Apple Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze your Apple Cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and enjoy it as if it were freshly baked!

What if my Apple Cake turns out too dry?
If your Apple Cake ends up dry, it may have been overbaked or the apples weren't juicy enough. Always check the cake starting at 30 minutes in the oven. Remember, it should be golden brown on the edges with a toothpick that comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached. For next time, ensure you use fresh, juicy apples and watch the baking time carefully.

Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
Very! While this 3 Ingredient Apple Cake is made with common ingredients, those with gluten allergies can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Always check individual allergies, especially to sugar or specific fruits like apples, before sharing.

Can I use different types of sugar or flour?
Certainly! You can experiment with brown sugar for a richer flavor or use whole wheat flour for a nuttier texture. Keep in mind that these substitutions may slightly change the cake's final taste and texture, but I'm sure it'll be delicious no matter what!