Quick 3-Minute Apple Cake

#### Instructions:

1. **Prepare Your Apple**
Start by washing and peeling your apple (if you prefer). Then, dice it into small cubes—about 1/4-inch pieces. Toss the apple chunks with **lemon juice** to prevent them from browning while you prep the rest of the ingredients.

2. **Mix the Dry Ingredients**
In a microwave-safe mug or bowl (roughly 8 ounces in size), combine the **flour**, **sugar**, **baking powder**, **salt**, and **cinnamon**. Stir to combine.

3. **Add the Wet Ingredients**
Add the **vegetable oil**, **vanilla extract**, and **milk** to the dry mixture. Stir everything together until it forms a smooth batter. If you’d like an extra rich flavor, feel free to swap the oil for melted butter.

4. **Fold in the Apple**
Gently fold in the diced apple pieces, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter. The apples add moisture and sweetness, making the cake extra tender.

5. **Microwave the Cake**
Microwave the cake batter on high for **1 minute and 30 seconds** to **2 minutes**, depending on the power of your microwave. Start with 1 minute 30 seconds and check the cake. The top should look set, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

6. **Let It Cool (Just a Little!)**
Once the cake is done cooking, let it cool for about 1-2 minutes before eating. It will continue to cook slightly as it cools, and the texture will set perfectly.

7. **Serve and Enjoy!**
You can eat the cake straight from the mug or transfer it to a plate. For an extra indulgent treat, top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a dusting of powdered sugar. If you’re feeling extra cozy, add a dollop of whipped cream on top!

### Tips for the Best 3-Minute Apple Cake

– **Use a Microwave-Safe Mug**: Make sure the mug or bowl you use is microwave-safe. A standard coffee mug is usually the perfect size for this recipe.

– **Don’t Overcook**: Microwaves vary in power, so start with 1 minute 30 seconds, and check the cake’s doneness. If it needs a little more time, microwave in 15-second intervals to avoid overcooking.

– **Use Fresh Apples**: Fresh apples are key to getting the right texture and flavor. If you don’t have fresh apples, you can use canned apples or even applesauce (though the texture may change slightly).

– **Add Some Spice**: For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of allspice along with the cinnamon for a more complex, autumn-inspired taste.

– **Make It Your Own**: This recipe is a blank canvas! Add in some chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even a handful of chocolate chips to make it your own. If you want a more indulgent version, top it with a drizzle of frosting or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

### Why You’ll Love This 3-Minute Apple Cake

– **Quick & Easy**: Perfect for when you’re short on time or just craving a sweet snack.
– **One Serving**: No need to make a whole cake, which means no leftovers (unless you make two, of course!).
– **Warm & Comforting**: Apple cake is the epitome of cozy, and in just 3 minutes, you’ve got a warm, flavorful dessert ready to go.
– **Customizable**: Feel free to experiment with different add-ins or toppings, making it your own every time.
– **No Fuss**: With no mixing bowls or complex steps, this cake is one of the simplest desserts you can make.

### Conclusion

The **Quick 3-Minute Apple Cake** is everything you want in a dessert: easy, quick, and utterly delicious. It’s perfect for a last-minute treat or a sweet little indulgence after a long day. With just a few ingredients and a few minutes in the microwave, you can enjoy a homemade dessert that’s warm, tender, and full of flavor. So, next time you’re craving something sweet, skip the store-bought options and give this recipe a try—it’s the perfect fast fix for your dessert cravings!