Easy 4-Ingredient Apple Cake Recipe: So Good, You’ll Make It Every Week

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If you’re craving a simple, comforting dessert that doesn’t require a long list of ingredients, this easy apple cake might just become your new favorite. With only a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep time, this cake delivers soft texture, rich flavor, and just the right touch of sweetness. Perfect for afternoon snacks, lunchboxes, or quick desserts, this recipe is ideal for beginner and seasoned bakers alike.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cake

This cake is one of those recipes you can memorize after making it a few times. It uses fresh apples and a fluffy, vanilla-scented batter to create a moist and tender crumb. With the subtle warmth of cinnamon and lemon zest, the result is a beautifully balanced cake that tastes like home.

What makes this recipe special:

  • Only a few common ingredients
  • No electric mixer required
  • Customizable with nuts, spices, or raisins
  • Great for weekday baking or last-minute desserts

Let’s take a closer look at how to make it.

Main Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this apple cake:

  • 150g all-purpose flour
  • 100g granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 medium apples, peeled and sliced or chopped
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • Pinch of salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • A few drops of vanilla extract (optional)
  • Chopped nuts to taste (optional)
  • Butter or parchment paper for greasing the pan

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Eggs

Separate the egg yolks from the whites. In one bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. Set aside.

2. Whip the Yolks and Sugar

In another bowl, whisk the egg yolks with sugar until light, fluffy, and doubled in volume. The mixture should turn a pale yellow color.

3. Add Flavor

Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract (if using), and cinnamon. These ingredients give the cake a fresh, aromatic base.

4. Combine the Dry Ingredients

Sift the flour and baking powder into the yolk mixture and gently fold to incorporate. Avoid overmixing. Then, add the whipped egg whites slowly using gentle, folding motions to keep the batter airy.

5. Add the Apples

Peel and slice or dice the apples into thin pieces. Fold them into the batter carefully so they remain intact.

6. Prepare the Pan

Grease a medium-sized baking pan with butter, or line it with parchment paper. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

7. Bake

Bake the cake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 40 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Serve it warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar if desired.

Customization Ideas

While this apple cake is delicious on its own, you can also personalize it:

  • Add-ins: Try raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates for extra sweetness.
  • Nutty crunch: Mix in chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds.
  • Extra spice: Boost the flavor with nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger.
  • Sweet topping: Serve with whipped cream, honey, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Storage Tips

  • Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Refrigerate: Keeps fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days.
  • Freeze: Wrap in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutrition (Per Slice, Approx.)

  • Calories: 190
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 6g
  • Sugar: 16g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 75mg

Note: Nutrition values may vary based on exact ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake without separating the eggs?

Yes, but beating the egg whites separately creates a lighter, fluffier texture. If you skip this step, expect a denser cake.

What kind of apples work best?

Choose firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. They hold their shape well during baking and provide a nice balance of sweetness and acidity.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes. You can easily double the ingredients and bake in a larger pan. Just increase the baking time by 10–15 minutes and monitor closely.

Is this cake suitable for kids?

Absolutely. This cake contains no artificial flavors or preservatives and is mildly sweet—great for lunchboxes or after-school snacks.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, but the texture will be denser. For better results, consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour.

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Final Thoughts

This 4-ingredient apple cake is more than just simple—it’s a reliable, go-to dessert that you’ll find yourself making often. Whether it’s a casual weekday treat or a cozy addition to weekend coffee, its moist texture and fruity aroma are always a hit.

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