3 Ingredient Apple Cake That’s Moist, Easy, and Irresistible

There’s something magical about finding a dessert that’s incredibly simple and unbelievably satisfying. In this article, you’ll discover how a humble 3 ingredient apple cake can bring cozy flavors to your kitchen with minimal effort. We’ll walk through exactly what goes into it, how to avoid common mistakes, and how to make it your own—all while answering your top questions along the way.

Table of Contents

Print

How a Simple 3 Ingredient Apple Cake Won My Heart

Growing up in Bari, Italy, my Nonna always said, “The best things come from the simplest ingredients.” Her words echo in my mind every time I bake something like this 3 ingredient apple cake. I remember watching her slice apples with care, her wrinkled hands dusted with flour as the scent of something warm and spiced filled the kitchen. She didn’t need fancy gadgets or ten-step recipes. Just patience, heart, and a few good ingredients.

Years later, after moving to the U.S., I found myself missing those flavors—missing that feeling. That’s when I started creating recipes like this apple cake. It’s my answer to a hectic weeknight or a last-minute dessert when friends stop by. With just apples, self-rising flour, and sweetened condensed milk, this cake bakes up soft, golden, and full of natural sweetness. And yes, it’s just three ingredients—really!

What I love most is how this 3 ingredient apple cake captures the taste of fall without needing butter, eggs, or oil. The apples keep it incredibly moist while the condensed milk brings that rich caramel-like depth. It’s no wonder this recipe has become a go-to in my house, just like Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars once were.

And guess what? Even with only three ingredients, this cake holds its own against more complex classics like Old Fashioned Chocolate Pie. If you’re craving comfort, but short on time or ingredients, this is your new dessert bestie. Trust me—it’s a keeper.

Stay with me, because up next, I’ll break down exactly what you need, how to make it, and all the ways to make it uniquely yours.

What Makes This 3 Ingredient Apple Cake Work?

The only 3 ingredients you’ll need for the perfect 3 ingredient apple cake

If you’ve ever wanted a dessert that’s incredibly simple and unbelievably tasty, this 3 ingredient apple cake is the answer. With just three pantry staples, you’ll create a moist, flavorful cake that tastes like something from a bakery.

Here’s exactly what you need for a classic 3 ingredient apple cake:

• 3 cups diced apples – Choose apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture.
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk – This replaces sugar, butter, and eggs in one genius step.
• 1 cup self-rising flour – No need for baking powder or salt. It’s all included!

This isn’t a trick—this is real, homemade 3 ingredient apple cake magic. No oil, no eggs, no butter. Just three ingredients that come together in a way that feels like fall in every bite.

If you don’t have self-rising flour, don’t worry. For every cup, mix 1 cup all-purpose flour with 1½ teaspoons baking powder and ¼ teaspoon salt. That’s all you need to get this 3 ingredient apple cake rising beautifully.

The texture is what really sells this cake. The sweetened condensed milk gives richness, while the apples keep it moist. When baked, your 3 ingredient apple cake has a tender, golden crumb that’s soft but never mushy. The apples almost melt into the batter, leaving little pockets of sweet, fruity goodness in every slice.

Why this 3 ingredient apple cake works without eggs or butter

What’s truly amazing about a 3 ingredient apple cake is how well it holds together with no eggs or butter. The apples add natural moisture, and the condensed milk adds structure and flavor. The result is a cake that’s soft, chewy, and just sweet enough.

Even better, you can tweak this base recipe with little additions if you want to make it your own. A touch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or a handful of chopped walnuts won’t ruin the simplicity but will give your 3 ingredient apple cake a fun twist.

And if you love no-fuss desserts, you’ll appreciate how it stacks up next to treats like Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars or No Bake Orange Creamsicle Truffles. This 3 ingredient apple cake takes about five minutes to prep, and the oven does the rest.

You can even serve it warm with ice cream, like a simplified fruit crisp. Or cool and slice it like a breakfast loaf. However you serve it, this 3 ingredient apple cake will surprise you with how much flavor you get from so little effort.

And now that you’ve got the ingredients and method down, let’s dive into the most common questions home bakers have. Why does apple cake sometimes turn out soggy? How do you know when it’s done? All that—and more—is coming up next.

Troubleshooting & Tips for the Perfect 3 Ingredient Apple Cake

Why is my 3 ingredient apple cake soggy?

One of the most common concerns with a 3 ingredient apple cake is sogginess. If your cake turns out wet or underbaked, don’t worry—it’s easy to fix. The number one reason is usually too much moisture from the apples. When making a 3 ingredient apple cake, always use firm apples like Fuji, Pink Lady, or Granny Smith. Softer apples like Red Delicious can release too much juice and throw off the texture.

Another factor? Apple size. Dice your apples into small, even chunks. If the pieces are too large, they won’t soften evenly, leaving soggy pockets. And if you’re tempted to shred the apples like in some old-school recipes—don’t. The smaller they are, the more water they release. For a moist but fully cooked 3 ingredient apple cake, small cubes are the sweet spot.

Lastly, your baking dish matters. Using a deep pan can trap steam, making it harder for the center to cook. Go for an 8×8-inch pan or a 9-inch round. It’s shallow enough to cook evenly and keeps your 3 ingredient apple cake perfectly fluffy.

And if you love moist, nostalgic cakes, you might also enjoy Old Fashioned Chocolate Pie or these Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting, both of which bake beautifully when ingredient ratios are just right.

How do you know when 3 ingredient apple cake is done?

You’ve mixed your batter, it smells amazing, and now you’re wondering—how do I really know my 3 ingredient apple cake is done?

Here’s the key: bake at 350°F for 40–45 minutes. Start checking around the 40-minute mark. The top should be golden brown and slightly firm to the touch. Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready.

Don’t rely only on time—ovens vary. If the middle still jiggles when you gently shake the pan, give it another 5–10 minutes. A properly baked 3 ingredient apple cake will be springy, with a light crust on top and a soft, even crumb inside.

Letting the cake cool for at least 20 minutes also helps set the structure. Cutting into it too soon might give the illusion of underbaking, even if it’s perfectly cooked. Let it rest, then slice and serve.

For cakes that are easy to test and hard to overbake, check out Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars, which have a similar moisture balance.

The best part? Even if you slightly overbake your 3 ingredient apple cake, the natural moisture from the apples helps it stay soft. It’s a forgiving dessert, perfect for beginner bakers or those craving a quick win.

Coming up in the final section: how to store your cake, serve it with flair, and flavor it like a pro—all while keeping it simple and true to its roots.

How to Enjoy, Store, and Customize Your 3 Ingredient Apple Cake

How long can 3 ingredient apple cake stay out?

One of the great things about this 3 ingredient apple cake is how well it stores. Once it cools completely, you can leave it out at room temperature for up to 2 days, as long as it’s covered tightly with foil or stored in an airtight container. After that, pop it in the fridge, where it keeps beautifully for another 3–4 days.

If you live in a warm or humid climate, it’s a smart move to refrigerate it sooner. This simple 3 ingredient apple cake doesn’t contain preservatives, so keeping it cool helps preserve its texture and flavor. Just like Creamy Butterscotch Cheesecake, chilling extends freshness without drying it out.

Reheating is easy—just microwave individual slices for 10–15 seconds. It’ll bring back that soft, tender texture and even make the apple flavor pop more. And yes, this cake freezes well, too. Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to two months. Defrost overnight in the fridge, and you’ve got dessert anytime.

Serving ideas and simple flavor upgrades for 3 ingredient apple cake

While the base recipe is magic on its own, this 3 ingredient apple cake is also the perfect canvas for a little creativity. One of my favorite ways to serve it is warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—almost like a rustic apple cobbler. Add a drizzle of caramel sauce, and you’ve got a dessert that tastes like you spent hours on it.

If you’re serving brunch, pair slices with coffee and a light fruit salad. The cake’s mild sweetness balances nicely with tart fruits or creamy drinks like Vanilla French Beignets. For a summer twist, top it with 2 Ingredient Mango Ice Cream—a quick combo that feels gourmet without the stress.

Want to level it up just a bit? Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or apple pie spice into the batter. You could also fold in chopped walnuts or raisins without compromising the beauty of this 3 ingredient apple cake. A light dusting of powdered sugar on top can add a pretty finish without overpowering the simple flavors.

And if you’re in a holiday mood, serve it alongside rich desserts like Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars for a cozy fall dessert board.

The bottom line? This 3 ingredient apple cake is flexible, forgiving, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re keeping it basic or giving it a twist, there’s no wrong way to serve it. Next up: we’ll cover your top questions in a quick, easy-to-follow FAQ.

FAQs About 3 Ingredient Apple Cake

Conclusion

This 3 ingredient apple cake proves that simplicity really is the ultimate sophistication. With just apples, flour, and sweetened condensed milk, you can create a rich, moist dessert that feels like home. Whether you’re short on time, ingredients, or just craving something warm and cozy, this cake is a reliable go-to.

Even better? You don’t need to be an expert baker to pull it off. Like my Nonna used to say, some of the best dishes come from what’s already in your pantry. I’ve made this cake after long days, on slow Sundays, and even for brunch with friends—and every time, it’s met with empty plates and requests for the recipe.

So next time you’re eyeing those apples on the counter and wondering what to make, let this 3 ingredient apple cake be your answer. Quick, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable—it’s a little piece of magic in every bite.

Want more simple, delicious desserts like this 3 ingredient apple cake? I share cozy treats, visual step-by-steps, and behind-the-scenes bakes over on Pinterest at MixMealMagic. Come say hi and pin your favorites!