Easy 3-Apple Cake Recipe
This soft and fluffy apple cake is one of the easiest homemade desserts you can make! Made with just 3 apples and simple pantry ingredients, this comforting cake comes together in only 10 minutes of prep time. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon tea treat.
The tender apples bake beautifully into the light vanilla batter, creating a moist and delicious cake with a golden top dusted in powdered sugar.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Made with simple ingredients
- Soft, moist, and full of apple flavor
- Perfect for fall baking or year-round desserts
- Great with coffee or tea
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 3 apples, peeled and sliced
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease or line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Peel the apples and cut them into thin slices or chunks. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy.
Add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
Gradually stir in the flour, baking powder, and cinnamon until a smooth batter forms.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Arrange the apple slices evenly in the prepared cake pan.
Pour the batter over the apples and gently spread it evenly.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool slightly before removing it from the pan.
Dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6–8 servings
Tips for the Best Apple Cake
- Use sweet apples like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp for the best flavor.
- Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- Sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon on top before baking for a caramelized finish.
- Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Storage
Store leftover apple cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different apples?
Yes! Granny Smith apples add a tart flavor, while sweeter apples create a softer, dessert-like cake.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely. The cake tastes even better the next day once the flavors settle.
Can I freeze apple cake?
Yes. Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 260
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 11g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 20g