applesauce in cake recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best applesauce in cake recipe

I’ve been experimenting with different ingredients in my cake recipes, and I’m so excited to share with you my latest discovery: applesauce in cake. This moist and flavorful addition has become a staple in my household, and I’m confident it will become one in yours too. Applesauce is a natural fit for cake, adding a sweet and tender texture that complements the richness of the chocolate or vanilla flavors.

Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra nutrition for your family, especially if you’re using organic applesauce with no added sugars or preservatives. My kids love helping me mix the batter and watching the cakes rise, and they always ask for seconds (or thirds!) when they’re done.

The best part? This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a quick dessert solution for your family, this applesauce cake is sure to impress.

And as an added bonus, it freezes beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or last-minute entertaining. I’ve even started experimenting with different flavor combinations, like adding cinnamon or nutmeg to give it an extra boost of warmth and spice. The possibilities are endless, and I’m excited to hear from you about how you like to customize this recipe!

With its versatility, ease of preparation, and delicious results, I’m confident this applesauce cake will become your new go-to dessert recipe. So why not give it a try and see what magic happens in your kitchen?!

Moist Applesauce Spice Cake

4.5 from 1775 votes

This applesauce spice cake uses unsweetened applesauce to replace most of the oil, resulting in a tender crumb and rich flavor. The natural sweetness of the applesauce allows for less added sugar while keeping the cake incredibly moist.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time45 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 285 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Cake

1 1/2 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 unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup unsweetened applesauce

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter or nonstick spray and dust lightly with flour, tapping out any excess.
3In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves until evenly combined.
4Set this dry mixture aside.
5In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
6Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
7Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat on medium speed until fully incorporated, about 1 minute.
8The mixture should look smooth and creamy.
9Add half of the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix on low speed just until combined.
10Then add the applesauce and mix on low until incorporated, followed by the remaining dry ingredients, mixing only until no streaks of flour remain.
11Do not overmix.
12Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it into an even layer.
13Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
14The top should be golden brown and spring back when lightly touched.
15Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes.
16Then turn it out onto the rack to cool completely before slicing and serving, about 1 hour.

🔧Equipment

9×5 inch loaf pan
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer or whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Cooling rack

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 285 kcal🧈Total Fat: 13g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 55mg🧂Sodium: 320mg🌾Total Carbs: 39g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 20g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with an equal amount of coconut oil or vegan butter. You can also add 1/2 cup of raisins or chopped walnuts to the batter for extra texture.

Watch Video Of How Moist Applesauce Spice Cake Works

Storing an applesauce cake is easy. I keep it in a sealed container on the counter for up to three days, and it stays soft and fresh.

If you need to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, just pop a slice in the microwave for about ten seconds or warm it in a low oven for a few minutes.

This cake is perfect for family gatherings because it is simple to make, travels well, and pleases everyone from kids to grandparents. I always feel good serving something that tastes indulgent but has a little extra nutrition hidden inside.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Moist Applesauce Spice Cake

Q: What type of apples should I use?

You can use any variety of apple that’s sweet and tender, but I find that Gala or Fuji work particularly well.

Q: Can I use store-bought applesauce?

Yes, but keep in mind that store-bought applesauce may contain added sugars or preservatives that could affect the final result.

Q: How much applesauce should I add?

Start with 1/2 cup of applesauce per 9-inch round cake or 12 standard-sized muffins.

Q: Can I substitute other fruits for the applesauce?

You can experiment with other fruits like bananas or pears, but keep in mind that the flavor profile will change significantly.

Q: Does this recipe work with gluten-free flours?

Afraid not – traditional gluten-free flours tend to produce dense cakes that won’t hold up well to the moisture from the applesauce.

Similar Posts