Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Applesauce Cake is simple to make and full of flavor. The applesauce not only adds sweetness but also keeps the cake moist and tender. The combination of warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves makes it the perfect fall-inspired dessert, but it’s delicious year-round. The cake is versatile—you can enjoy it as is, or you can dress it up with a drizzle of glaze, whipped cream, or even some caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon cloves
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup applesauce
2 large eggs

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, applesauce, and eggs until well combined.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until everything is just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.
Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve: Once the cake has cooled, slice and serve as is, or top with whipped cream, caramel sauce, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

Add Nuts or Raisins: For extra texture, add chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins to the batter.
Glaze It: Drizzle the cake with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk, or try a caramel glaze for a richer flavor.
Make It Frosted: If you prefer a frosted cake, try topping it with cream cheese frosting or a spiced buttercream.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Applesauce Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it for longer, refrigerate it for up to 1 week.
Freezing: You can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use unsweetened applesauce instead of sweetened?

Yes, you can use unsweetened applesauce. Just keep in mind that it may result in a slightly less sweet cake, but it will still be delicious.

2. Can I make this cake without eggs?

Yes, you can use an egg substitute like flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water = 1 egg) or a store-bought egg replacer for a vegan version.

3. Can I add more spices to the cake?

Absolutely! If you love spices, feel free to add more cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a pinch of ginger for an extra kick.

4. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for a more hearty cake, but it will result in a denser texture.

5. Can I make this cake in a different size pan?

Yes, if you want a thicker cake, you can use an 8×8-inch pan, but keep in mind that the baking time may be slightly longer. Just make sure to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick.

6. Can I frost this cake?

Yes! You can frost the Applesauce Cake with cream cheese frosting, buttercream, or even a simple whipped cream topping for added richness.

7. How do I know when the cake is done?

The cake is done when a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean. It should also spring back lightly when touched.

8. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake keeps well, and the flavors actually improve after a day or two. Just store it covered at room temperature or in the fridge if you prefer it colder.

9. How can I make this cake more moist?

Adding a little extra applesauce or using oil instead of butter can increase the moisture content of the cake.

10. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can double this recipe. If you do, use a 9×13-inch pan or two 9-inch round pans and adjust the baking time as needed.

Conclusion

Applesauce Cake is the ultimate cozy dessert, combining the sweetness of apples with warm, comforting spices. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for any occasion, especially when the weather starts to cool down. Whether you serve it plain, with a glaze, or a dollop of whipped cream, this cake is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the delicious flavors of fall year-round with this simple and scrumptious treat!

Apple sauce Cake

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Author: Julia
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Applesauce Cake is a moist, spiced cake filled with cozy flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. With the sweetness of applesauce and a soft texture, this easy-to-make dessert is perfect for any occasion. Whether served plain or topped with whipped cream or caramel sauce, it’s a comforting treat that everyone will love.

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, applesauce, and eggs until well combined.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until everything is just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.
Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve: Once the cake has cooled, slice and serve as is, or top with whipped cream, caramel sauce, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Notes

Add Nuts or Raisins: For extra texture, add chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins to the batter.

Glaze It: Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk, or a caramel glaze for a richer flavor.

Make It Frosted: If you prefer, top with cream cheese frosting or spiced buttercream.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American