Applesauce Cake Recipe

There is something truly heartwarming about a classic Applesauce Cake Recipe that feels like a gentle hug from the inside out. This moist, tender cake brings together the sweet, subtly tangy flavor of applesauce with cozy spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a rich but light treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a comforting dessert or as a sweet snack with your afternoon tea, this recipe captures all the warmth and nostalgia you could hope for in a single slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the key to nailing this Applesauce Cake Recipe. Each element contributes something special—from the buttery smoothness to the tender crumb and the comforting spice blend.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the cake which gives it structure while keeping it tender.
• 1 tsp baking soda: Helps the cake rise perfectly and keeps it light.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds that classic warm, sweet-spicy flavor we love.
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg: Brings a hint of earthiness and depth to the spice profile.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: For richness and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds caramel notes and moistness.
• 2 large eggs: Binds the cake together and gives it a nice lift.
• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce: The star ingredient providing moisture without extra oil or fat.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a silky aroma.
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or raisins (optional): For delightful texture and bursts of flavor.
• Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional): A pretty, sweet finishing touch.

How to Make Applesauce Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or use a loaf pan for a classic shape. This ensures your cake won’t stick and comes out perfectly clean every time.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This mix of dry ingredients is what gives the cake its structure and those beautiful spiced notes that make the applesauce shine.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until the mixture turns light in color and fluffy in texture, which usually takes about 3 minutes. This step is essential for a tender and airy cake crumb.

Step 4: Add the Eggs

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. This slow addition helps keep the batter smooth and well combined, crucial for even baking.

Step 5: Stir in Applesauce and Vanilla

Blend in the unsweetened applesauce and vanilla extract until evenly mixed. The applesauce not only adds moistness but also keeps the cake naturally sweet and light on fat.

Step 6: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your dry mix to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Remember, overmixing can make the cake dense, so a few lumps here and there are perfectly fine.

Step 7: Fold in Optional Mix-ins

This is your chance to customize! Fold in chopped walnuts or raisins if you want extra texture and bursts of flavor. They bring an exciting surprise in every bite but feel free to leave them out if you prefer a smooth texture.

Step 8: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Pop it into the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Step 9: Cool and Finish

Let the cake rest in the pan for 10 minutes before moving it onto a wire rack to cool completely. For a touch of elegance and sweetness, dust the cooled cake lightly with powdered sugar before serving.

How to Serve Applesauce Cake Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds a delicate sweetness and a pretty, snow-like finish that’s perfect for showcasing this humble cake. For an extra special twist, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream works beautifully.

Side Dishes

This Applesauce Cake Recipe pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit like sliced pears or apples to keep things fresh and light. It also pairs nicely with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making it ideal for cozy afternoon gatherings.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving slices layered with cream cheese frosting or drizzled with a caramel sauce to elevate the experience. Another fun idea is to cut the cake into small squares and arrange them on a dessert platter alongside nuts and dried fruits for a shareable treat platter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your Applesauce Cake Recipe has cooled completely, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will stay fresh and moist on the countertop for about 2-3 days.

Freezing

This cake freezes wonderfully, making it a great option for batch baking. Wrap it securely in foil and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It keeps well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

To enjoy your applesauce cake warm, slice and microwave each piece for about 15 to 20 seconds. Alternatively, you can warm individual slices in a preheated oven at 300°F for 10 minutes to restore that just-baked softness.

FAQs

Can I use homemade applesauce for this Applesauce Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade applesauce adds a fresh, vibrant apple flavor that can really boost the cake’s taste. Just ensure it’s unsweetened to avoid altering the sweetness balance of the recipe.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Choose one that’s suitable for baking and ideally includes xanthan gum to help keep the cake’s structure intact.

Can I replace the butter with oil?

You can swap butter for an equal amount of vegetable oil to keep the cake moist, but the flavor and texture will be slightly different—less rich and fluffy but still delicious.

What can I do if I don’t have walnuts or raisins?

No problem! You can simply omit them or try other mix-ins like chopped pecans, dried cranberries, or even chocolate chips for a twist. The cake is lovely on its own too.

How can I make the cake more moist?

The applesauce already keeps it wonderfully moist, but to make it extra tender, be careful not to overmix and avoid overbaking. Adding a little extra applesauce (up to 1/4 cup) can also help if you want it super soft.

Final Thoughts

Sharing this Applesauce Cake Recipe with you feels like passing on a little slice of comfort and tradition. It’s effortlessly delicious, packed with cozy flavors, and ultra-moist from the applesauce. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how such a simple cake becomes your new favorite go-to for any time you crave a sweet, gentle treat.

Print