Applesauce Cake Recipe
If you’re searching for a delightful homemade treat, look no further than this classic Applesauce Cake. This delicious recipe perfectly balances sweet and spice, offering a moist, flavorful dessert that works perfectly for any occasion. Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser, this cake will become a staple in your baking rotation.
Every autumn, the smell of applesauce cake fills our home, a tradition passed down from my grandmother who insisted that there were few things more comforting than this cinnamon-spiced cake. Her secret was to use homemade applesauce we made every fall from apple-picking trips. Those cherished memories make every bite of this cake a heartwarming journey back to simpler times.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is wonderfully moist and spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, making it the ideal dessert for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in. It’s a breeze to make with pantry-friendly ingredients, and the applesauce gives it a tender crumb without needing excessive fat. Plus, this cake is versatile enough for a variety of toppings, from cream cheese frosting to a simple dusting of powdered sugar.
Ingredients Notes
The key to this recipe’s success is using good-quality applesauce. If you can, opt for unsweetened applesauce to control sweetness and ensure a great texture. You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat for added nutrition, and nuts can be added for a delightful crunch.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan and set it aside. This helps prevent the cake from sticking and ensures an even bake.
Step 2
In a large bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon each of baking powder and cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon each of baking soda, salt, and cloves, and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg. Mix well and set aside.
Step 3
In a separate bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened butter and 1 cup of sugar until light and fluffy. Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Step 4
Stir in 1 1/2 cups of applesauce and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the batter until well combined. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients, mixing until just blended.
Step 5
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan before serving.
Storage Options
To store leftovers, wrap the cake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in parchment paper and place them in a ziplock bag for up to three months. To reheat, let thaw at room temperature, or microwave for 15-20 seconds.
Variations & Substitutions
For a healthier variation, you can replace half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour and use coconut sugar in place of granulated sugar. If you’re feeling adventurous, add in a handful of raisins or a half cup of chopped walnuts. For a gluten-free option, use a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking mix.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use sweetened applesauce in this recipe? Yes, you can use sweetened applesauce, but consider reducing the amount of sugar in the batter to avoid the cake becoming overly sweet. Start by reducing it by a quarter and taste the batter if you can adjust as needed.
Is it necessary to use unsalted butter? Unsalted butter is recommended for greater control over the sodium content in your cake. However, if only salted butter is available, you might want to reduce any added salt in the dry ingredients.
Can this cake be made vegan? Absolutely! To make this cake vegan, you can substitute the eggs with a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water per egg) and the butter with a plant-based alternative. Ensure your applesauce is free from any added dairy.
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Applesauce Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups applesauce
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour sifted
- 1 cup sugar
- 0.5 cup butter softened
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 0.25 teaspoon nutmeg
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar. Stir in the applesauce.
- Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
- Bake for 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
