There’s just something magical about the smell of freshly baked cake wafting through the house, isn’t there? Especially when it’s this wonderfully spiced, moist, and oh-so-comforting Applesauce Cake. Trust me, this one’s a keeper. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug, perfect for chilly afternoons with a cup of tea or as a sweet ending to your day. Bonus? It’s easy to make, uses simple pantry ingredients, and is totally customizable. Let’s dive into why you’re going to love this cake as much as I do!
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Why You’ll Love Applesauce Cake
This isn’t just cake—it’s a slice of joy on a plate. Here’s why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your rotation:
- Moist and Flavorful: The applesauce makes this cake incredibly moist, while the cinnamon and nutmeg bring that cozy, spiced flavor we all crave.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a lazy weekend bake or a festive dessert for a gathering, this cake fits the bill.
- Pantry-Friendly: No need for fancy ingredients; you likely already have everything you need!
- Customizable Goodness: Add chopped nuts, raisins, or even a drizzle of glaze to make it your own.
- Foolproof: This recipe is so easy that even beginner bakers can nail it on the first try.
Ingredients in Applesauce Cake
Here’s the lineup of ingredients that make this cake a winner:
Applesauce: The star ingredient that keeps the cake moist and adds natural sweetness. It also cuts down on the need for extra oil or butter.
Flour: The base of our cake, providing structure. You can use all-purpose flour or experiment with whole wheat for a nuttier flavor.
Sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the spices and applesauce.
Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These warm spices are essential for that classic, cozy flavor.
Baking Soda: Helps the cake rise to fluffy perfection.
Eggs: Binds everything together and adds richness to the cake.
Oil: Keeps the cake tender and ensures it doesn’t dry out.
Optional Add-Ins: Chopped nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and baking soda. This ensures everything is evenly distributed.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then stir in the applesauce and oil until well combined.
Combine and Mix: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before slicing. If desired, top with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of vanilla glaze.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 12 slices
Calories per serving: 210
How to Serve Applesauce Cake
- With Coffee or Tea: This cake pairs perfectly with your favorite warm beverage for a cozy treat.
- With Ice Cream: Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- On Its Own: Honestly, this cake is so good, it doesn’t need anything extra!
Additional Tips
- Prep Ahead: You can make the batter a day in advance and bake it fresh when ready.
- Add Texture: Stir in some chopped pecans or walnuts for a nutty crunch.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
- Freeze It: Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use homemade applesauce?
A1: Absolutely! Homemade applesauce works wonderfully and adds a fresh, natural flavor.
Q2: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
A2: Yes! Substitute the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix for a gluten-free version.
Q3: Can I replace the oil with butter?
A3: Sure! Melted butter works as a substitute for oil and adds a slightly richer flavor.
Q4: How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
A4: Grease the pan thoroughly and dust it with flour, or line it with parchment paper.
Q5: Can I use a different size pan?
A5: You can! Adjust the baking time for smaller or larger pans—just keep an eye on it as it bakes.
Q6: Can I add frosting?
A6: Definitely! A cream cheese frosting or simple vanilla glaze would be divine.
Q7: How long does it take to cool?
A7: Let the cake cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
Q8: Can I make cupcakes instead of a cake?
A8: Yes! Divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake for 20-25 minutes.
Q9: Can I reduce the sugar?
A9: You can! Try cutting back by 1/4 cup if you prefer a less sweet cake.
Q10: What toppings work best?
A10: Powdered sugar, vanilla glaze, or even a dollop of whipped cream are excellent options.
In Conclusion
This Applesauce Cake is everything you want in a dessert—easy, delicious, and oh-so-comforting. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering, enjoying a slice with your morning coffee, or sneaking a piece for a midnight snack (we’ve all been there), it’s guaranteed to hit the spot. Go ahead, grab your apron, and let’s bake some memories together!
Print
Applesauce Cake
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Amish
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Amish Applesauce Cake is a moist and spiced dessert filled with warm flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Perfectly sweetened with applesauce, this simple yet delicious cake is great for holidays, potlucks, or any time you crave a cozy dessert.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups unsweetened applesauce
- 1 cup raisins or chopped nuts (optional)
For the Glaze (Optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or a 9-inch Bundt pan. - Mix the dry ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Set aside. - Cream the butter and sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes). - Add the wet ingredients
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix in the applesauce until smooth. - Combine wet and dry ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix. Fold in raisins or nuts, if desired. - Bake the cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 35–40 minutes (for a 9×13 pan) or 45–50 minutes (for a Bundt pan), or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. - Cool the cake
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. - Make the glaze (optional)
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake. - Serve
Slice and serve as is, or pair with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Notes
- Substitute whole wheat flour for added fiber.
- Add a pinch of ground ginger for extra warmth.
- This cake freezes well; wrap individual slices in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
How much should I reduce sugar if I have sweetened applesauce?