Applesauce Cake Recipe: A Simple Twist on Classic Baking

Welcome to the world of applesauce cake! This delightful, moist cake is packed with the natural sweetness of applesauce and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. It’s the perfect treat for any occasion, whether you’re serving it as a dessert, snack, or breakfast treat. Easy to make and lighter than traditional cakes, applesauce cake Recipes will quickly become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Table of Contents

Introduction

If you’re looking for a moist, flavorful, and healthier cake option, look no further than the classic applesauce cake. This old-fashioned favorite combines the sweetness of applesauce with warm spices, making it a comforting dessert or snack. Perfect for any occasion, applesauce cake Reipeis easy to prepare and can be enjoyed by both kids and adults. In this post, we’ll take you through everything from its origins to a step-by-step recipe that you can follow in your own kitchen.

Applesauce Cake Recipe

What is Applesauce Cake?

Applesauce cake is a soft and moist cake that uses applesauce as a key ingredient to add sweetness and moisture. Unlike traditional cakes that rely heavily on butter or oil, applesauce provides a healthier alternative while still delivering a rich and flavorful dessert. The cake is usually spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and sometimes cloves, making it a perfect treat for fall or winter.

The Origin of Applesauce Cake Recipe

Applesauce cake has its roots in the early 20th century when bakers started using applesauce as a substitute for fats during times of scarcity, like during the Great Depression. Applesauce was a practical and economical way to add moisture and sweetness to baked goods without using as much butter, oil, or sugar. Over time, this cake has remained a popular choice in American households due to its simplicity and rich flavor.

Why is Applesauce Cake So Famous?

Applesauce cake gained fame for its versatility and wholesome ingredients. It is a favorite for health-conscious bakers because it reduces the need for fats like oil or butter while still creating a tender crumb. The natural sweetness of applesauce also means you can use less sugar in the recipe. Its ease of preparation and delicious flavor make it a go-to dessert for family gatherings, holidays, or simply as an everyday snack.

Equipment Needed for Making Applesauce Cake

To make applesauce cake, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools:

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer (or whisk and strong arms!)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula
  • 9×13 inch baking pan (or loaf pan for a more dense cake)
  • Cooling rack
  • Oven

Key Ingredients for Applesauce Cake

Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need for this applesauce cake recipe:

  • 2 cups unsweetened applesauce: The star of the show! Adds moisture and natural sweetness.
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cake.
  • 1 cup sugar: You can reduce this if you prefer a less sweet cake.
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Helps to keep the cake moist.
  • 2 large eggs: Acts as a binder and adds richness.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cake rise.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder: Another leavening agent for a lighter texture.
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Adds warm, comforting spice.
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg: Complements the cinnamon with a hint of spice.
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional): For extra warmth and spice.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and flavor.
  • Optional add-ins: Chopped nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Applesauce Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and optional cloves. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the vegetable oil, applesauce, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cake dense.

Step 5: Add Optional Ingredients

If you’d like to include raisins, chopped nuts, or chocolate chips, fold them into the batter at this point. and 

Step 6: Pour Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack. Let it cool completely before slicing and serving.

Health Benefits of Applesauce Cake

While applesauce cake Recipe is still a treat, it has some healthier benefits compared to traditional cakes. Here are a few:

  • Lower in fat: Thanks to the applesauce, which replaces much of the oil or butter typically used in cakes.
  • Less sugar: Applesauce adds natural sweetness, so you can cut back on the amount of added sugar.
  • Rich in fiber: Applesauce contains dietary fiber, which aids in digestion.
  • Contains antioxidants: Apples are a source of antioxidants, which help fight free radicals in the body.

Serving People

This recipe serves about 12 people, making it perfect for a family gathering or a potluck dessert.

Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Total Time: 50-55 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Here’s the approximate nutritional information for one serving (1 slice):

  • Calories: 220
  • Total Fat: 8g
    • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 35g
    • Dietary Fiber: 2g
    • Sugars: 18g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Vitamin A: 2% DV
  • Vitamin C: 2% DV
  • Calcium: 4% DV
  • Iron: 6% DV

More Recipe

Applesauce Cake Recipe

Applesauce Cake Recipe

Welcome to the world of applesauce cake! This delightful, moist cake is packed with the natural sweetness of applesauce and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 4 people
Calories 220 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowls
  • Electric mixe
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Rubber Spatula
  • 9×13-Inch Baking Pan
  • Cooling Rack
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

2 cups unsweetened applesauce: The star of the show! Adds moisture and natural sweetness.

2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cake.

1 cup sugar: You can reduce this if you prefer a less sweet cake.

1/2 cup vegetable oil: Helps to keep the cake moist.

2 large eggs: Acts as a binder and adds richness.

1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cake rise.

1 teaspoon baking powder: Another leavening agent for a lighter texture.

1 teaspoon cinnamon: Adds warm, comforting spice.

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg: Complements the cinnamon with a hint of spice.

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional): For extra warmth and spice.

1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor.

1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and flavor.

Optional add-ins: Chopped nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.

Instructions
 

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

  • Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

  • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and optional cloves. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

  • In another bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the vegetable oil, applesauce, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cake dense.

Step 5: Add Optional Ingredients

  • If you’d like to include raisins, chopped nuts, or chocolate chips, fold them into the batter at this point.and

Step 6: Pour Bake

  • Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

  • Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack. Let it cool completely before slicing and serving.
    Applesauce Cake Recipe

Notes

  • Calories: 220
  • Total Fat: 8g
    • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 35g
    • Dietary Fiber: 2g
    • Sugars: 18g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Vitamin A: 2% DV
  • Vitamin C: 2% DV
  • Calcium: 4% DV
  • Iron: 6% DV
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Conclusion

Applesauce cake is not only delicious and comforting, but it’s also a healthier alternative to more traditional cakes. With its simple ingredients and ease of preparation, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Plus, you can easily adjust the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs, whether you prefer a lower-sugar version or want to add nuts or raisins for extra texture. So why not give it a try and enjoy this timeless dessert today?

FAQs for an applesauce cake recipe:

  1. Can I substitute applesauce for oil or butter in other cake recipes?
    Yes, applesauce can be used as a substitute for oil or butter in many cake recipes to reduce fat content and add moisture.
  2. How do I store applesauce cake Recipe?
    Store applesauce cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
  3. Can I freeze applesauce cake Recipe?
    Yes, applesauce cake freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
  4. Can I make applesauce cake Recipe gluten-free?
    Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it’s suitable for baking to achieve the best texture.
  5. What can I add to applesauce cake Recipe for extra flavor?
    You can add ingredients like chopped nuts, raisins, cranberries, or even chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.

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