When it comes to comfort food, few things rival the heartwarming appeal of a freshly baked cake. There’s something magical about the way the aroma fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather and share in the joy of a home-cooked treat. Today, I am thrilled to share a recipe that has become a beloved staple in my household – the Apple Cake. This delightful dessert is a fusion of simple ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures.
I remember the first time I made this cake. It was a chilly autumn afternoon, and I was looking for a way to use up some canned apple filling I had in the pantry. Little did I know, this impromptu baking session would lead to a recipe that my family and friends now request at every gathering. The combination of the tender apple filling, rich eggs, and the light, fluffy cake mix creates a dessert that is both comforting and indulgent. It’s perfect for those moments when you crave something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
This Apple Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. So, let’s dive into the details and get baking!
Ingredients:
1 can apple filling
4 large eggs
1 box yellow cake mix
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This ensures that your oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake, which is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your cake. Next, take a 9×13 inch rectangular baking dish and grease it thoroughly with baking spray. This step is important to prevent the cake from sticking to the dish, making it easier to serve and clean up afterward.
Step 2: Mix the Eggs and Apple Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the 4 large eggs and the can of apple filling. Using an electric mixer, blend these ingredients until the apple filling breaks up slightly. This step helps to distribute the apple pieces evenly throughout the batter, ensuring that every bite is filled with delicious apple goodness. The eggs not only help to bind the ingredients together but also add richness and moisture to the cake.
Step 3: Incorporate the Cake Mix
Once the eggs and apple filling are well combined, it’s time to add the yellow cake mix. Gradually add the cake mix to the bowl, stirring gently to combine. It’s important to mix until there are no visible flour chunks, but be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to a dense, heavy cake, whereas a light mix will keep your cake airy and fluffy. This step transforms the mixture into a smooth batter that is ready to bake.
Step 4: Transfer and Bake
Pour the prepared batter into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes. You’ll know the cake is done when the crust turns a beautiful golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This baking time allows the cake to rise properly, developing a tender crumb and a lightly crisp crust.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool for about 10 minutes. Allowing the cake to cool slightly helps it set, making it easier to cut and serve. After 10 minutes, you can slice the cake and enjoy it warm, or let it cool completely for a more firm texture.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the wonderful things about this Apple Cake recipe is its versatility. Here are a few variations and substitutions to suit different tastes and dietary preferences:
Spiced Apple Cake: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor that pairs beautifully with the apple filling.
Nutty Delight: Stir in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and a nutty depth of flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix instead of the regular one to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Dairy-Free: Ensure your cake mix is dairy-free and substitute the eggs with a vegan egg replacer if you are avoiding dairy and animal products.
Tropical Twist: Swap the apple filling with pineapple filling for a tropical variation that’s equally delightful.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
This Apple Cake recipe is a true gem for several reasons. Firstly, it requires only three main ingredients, making it incredibly accessible and budget-friendly. The simplicity of the ingredients doesn’t compromise the flavor, as the combination of apple filling, eggs, and cake mix creates a dessert that is rich, moist, and packed with flavor.
The ease of preparation is another highlight. With straightforward steps and minimal equipment needed, this recipe is perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a potluck, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, this cake is sure to impress.
Moreover, the versatility of this recipe means you can easily adapt it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. The suggested variations allow you to experiment with different flavors and textures, ensuring that you never get bored of this delightful dessert.
Finally, the end result is a cake that is not only delicious but also brings a sense of comfort and nostalgia. The aroma of baking apples and cake wafting through your kitchen is sure to evoke memories of cozy gatherings and cherished moments with loved ones.
In conclusion, this Apple Cake is more than just a recipe – it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best dishes are the ones that require the least effort but deliver the most joy. So, the next time you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, give this recipe a try and experience the magic for yourself. Happy baking!
3 INGREDIENT APPLE PIE CAKE
Ingredients
- 1 can 21 oz apple filling
- 4 large eggs
- 1 box 15.25 oz yellow cake mix
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with baking spray.
- Mix the Eggs and Apple Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the 4 eggs and the can of apple filling. Use an electric mixer to blend until the apple filling breaks up slightly, distributing the apple pieces evenly.
- Incorporate the Cake Mix: Gradually add the yellow cake mix to the egg and apple mixture. Stir gently until combined, making sure there are no visible flour chunks. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Transfer and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. Slice and serve warm, or let it cool completely for a firmer texture.
