Introduction
At Love With Recipes, we understand the importance of quick, delicious desserts that can be whipped up with minimal effort but deliver maximum flavor. The 3-Ingredient Apple Spice Cake exemplifies this philosophy perfectly. This recipe combines simple ingredients—fresh apple, spice cake mix, and eggs—to create a moist, aromatic cake that embodies the comforting warmth of fall and the festive spirit of any celebration. Whether you’re pressed for time, hosting a last-minute gathering, or simply craving a sweet treat without the fuss, this cake is your ideal solution. Its tender crumb, infused with the natural sweetness of apple and the spicy notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, makes it a crowd-pleaser suitable for all ages. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve plain or dressed up with whipped cream, ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel, elevating it to a more decadent dessert. This recipe is perfect for beginners and experts alike, offering an uncomplicated process that guarantees delicious results every time. As part of the Love With Recipes community, we’re committed to bringing you simple, trustworthy recipes that fit into your busy lifestyle while satisfying your culinary cravings.
Time
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: approximately 35 minutes
Needed Equipment
- Standard oven
- Mixing bowl
- Grater (for apple)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula or mixing spoon
- 9-inch round or square cake pan (preferably non-stick or well-greased)
- Cooking spray or butter (for greasing)
- Lightly floured surface or parchment paper (for preparing the pan)
- Cooling rack
- Knife (for testing doneness and slicing)
Tags
- Quick & Easy
- Apple Dessert
- Spice Cake
- Fall Inspired
- Family Friendly
- Minimal Ingredients
- Comfort Food
- Homemade
Serving Size
This recipe yields approximately 12 slices, making it ideal for family gatherings, small parties, or weekly desserts. Each slice is approximately 1-inch thick, depending on the size of the cake and the serving preferences. For larger or smaller servings, adjust accordingly, but keep in mind that the nutritional information will vary slightly based on portion size.
Difficulty Level
This recipe is classified as easy. It requires no complex techniques or special skills, making it accessible to beginner bakers and those looking for a quick sweet fix. The main steps involve mixing, pouring, and baking, all of which can be accomplished with basic kitchen tools and straightforward instructions.
Allergen Information
| Allergen | Present | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Eggs | Yes | |
| Wheat (Gluten) | Yes | |
| Tree Nuts / Nuts | No (unless added as a tip) | |
| Dairy | No | |
| Soy | No |
If you have specific allergies, consider substituting ingredients accordingly, such as egg replacers or gluten-free cake mixes.
Dietary Preference
This recipe is naturally vegetarian and can be made vegan by using egg substitutes (like applesauce or flax eggs) and vegan cake mixes. It is also nut-free unless nuts are added as an add-on. Always read labels on cake mixes to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Course
Dessert — perfect for ending a meal or enjoying as a sweet snack during the day.
Cuisine
American, Fall-inspired, Comfort Food
Ingredients
Ingredient List in Detail
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apple | 1 medium-sized | Finely grated; choose a firm, mildly tart apple such as Granny Smith or Fuji |
| Spice Cake Mix | 1 box (usually 15.25 oz) | Standard size; can be store-bought or homemade |
| Eggs | 4 large | Room temperature recommended for better incorporation |
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Oven and Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is optimal for baking the cake evenly and ensuring a moist, tender crumb. While the oven heats, prepare your cake pan. Lightly grease it with butter, cooking spray, or shortening. Follow with a light dusting of flour or line with parchment paper to prevent sticking. For a more foolproof release, consider using a silicone baking mold or a non-stick cake pan.
Step 2: Preparing the Apple
Choose a fresh, medium-sized apple with a firm texture and a flavor profile suited to baking—such as Granny Smith for tartness or Fuji for sweetness. Rinse the apple thoroughly under cold running water to remove any residues or wax coatings. Using a sharp grater, grate the apple finely. To do this efficiently, cut the apple into quarters, remove the core, and hold each quarter with a stable grip. Carefully grate the flesh, ensuring uniform fineness to distribute the apple flavors evenly throughout the cake. Once grated, you can toss the apple with a pinch of cinnamon or lemon juice to enhance flavor and prevent browning.
Step 3: Mixing the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated apple, the entire box of spice cake mix, and four eggs. Use a sturdy spatula or a hand mixer on low speed to blend all ingredients thoroughly. The mixture should become thick and evenly colored, with no lumps remaining. The grated apple will introduce moisture and natural sweetness, while the spice cake mix provides the aromatic spices and structure. Ensure that the batter is homogeneous, with no streaks of dry mix or unincorporated apple. For an even more flavorful cake, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of additional cinnamon at this stage.
Step 4: Pouring and Baking
Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly with the back of a spatula or a spoon. Tap the pan gently on the countertop to eliminate air bubbles and level the batter surface. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 to 40 minutes. The exact baking time can vary depending on your oven’s calibration and the thickness of your batter. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick or a cake tester into the center of the cake; it should come out clean with no wet batter attached. If the tester shows moist crumbs, give the cake a few more minutes and recheck.
Step 5: Cooling and Inversion
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and set it on a cooling rack. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to allow the structure to set and prevent breaking when removing. After this initial cooling period, carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate or wire rack. If you used parchment paper, gently peel it away. Allow the cake to cool completely to room temperature before slicing. This step is crucial to achieve clean cuts and prevent the cake from crumbling.
Step 6: Serving and Garnishing
Slice the cooled cake into 12 even pieces using a serrated knife. Serve on its own to appreciate the pure flavors or enhance your presentation with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, caramel sauce, or a dusting of powdered sugar. For an extra touch, sprinkle additional cinnamon or chopped nuts on top. The cake pairs beautifully with hot beverages like coffee, tea, or warm cider, making it a perfect fall or winter dessert.
Preparation Tips
- Ensure the apple is grated finely to distribute moisture evenly and avoid large chunks that could affect the cake’s texture.
- Use room-temperature eggs for better emulsification, resulting in a lighter, fluffier cake.
- Adjust baking time based on your oven’s performance; start checking for doneness at 30 minutes.
- If you prefer a more pronounced spice flavor, add a pinch of ground ginger or allspice to the batter.
- For a richer flavor, consider folding in a handful of chopped nuts or dried fruits before baking.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 slice) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 229 kcal | |
| Fat Content | 6.5 g | |
| Saturated Fat | 1.8 g | |
| Cholesterol | 62 mg | |
| Sodium | 280.4 mg | |
| Carbohydrates | 39.6 g | |
| Fiber | 1.1 g | |
| Sugar | 23.5 g | |
| Protein | 3.7 g |
Tips and Tricks
- For a more moist cake, substitute a portion of the eggs with applesauce or Greek yogurt.
- Experiment with different apple varieties to vary sweetness and tartness.
- Use a toothpick test to verify doneness rather than relying solely on baking time, as ovens vary.
- For an extra festive presentation, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel sauce.
- If the cake surface browns too quickly, tent with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Add-ons and Variations
- Chopped nuts such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds mixed into the batter for added crunch.
- Dried fruits like cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots stirred into the batter for additional sweetness and texture.
- Spiced glaze or cream cheese frosting for a richer finish.
- Swirling in apple butter or caramel sauce before baking for enhanced flavor.
Side Dishes
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to complement the warm spices.
- Caramel or butterscotch sauce drizzled over slices for added decadence.
- Fresh fruit salad featuring apples, pears, and berries for a light contrast.
- Warm spiced cider or coffee to pair with the cake during colder months.
Improvements and Customizations
- Incorporate a teaspoon of ground ginger or allspice for a more complex spice profile.
- Use a gluten-free cake mix and gluten-free oats or almond flour for a gluten-free version.
- Add a splash of bourbon or apple brandy to the batter for a boozy twist.
- Top with a streusel crumb topping before baking for a crunchy exterior.
Save and Store
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 7 days. To reheat, warm slices gently in the microwave or oven. If you prefer to freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving for best texture and flavor.
FAQ
Can I make this cake vegan?
Yes, substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg) or applesauce. Use a vegan spice cake mix if available. Note that texture may slightly vary.
Can I use other types of apples?
Absolutely. Sweet apples like Fuji or Gala can be used for a milder flavor, while tart apples like Granny Smith add brightness. Adjust the sweetness accordingly if using very sweet apples.
Will this recipe work with other cake mixes?
Yes, you can experiment with yellow or white cake mixes, adding cinnamon and spices to recreate the flavor profile. You might need to adjust baking times slightly.
Is the cake suitable for gluten-free diets?
Only if using a certified gluten-free cake mix. Always check labels carefully to avoid cross-contamination.
Conclusion
This 3-Ingredient Apple Spice Cake from lovewithrecipes.com exemplifies simplicity, versatility, and flavor. Its minimal ingredients and straightforward process make it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, impromptu gatherings, or when you want to indulge without the hassle. The combination of fresh apple and warm spices creates a cozy, inviting aroma that fills your home and delights your taste buds. Whether served plain or dressed up with toppings, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Embrace the ease and deliciousness of this classic, and enjoy the comforting taste of apple and spice in every bite.
