Applesauce Cake: A Deliciously Moist Recipe for Every Occasion

Applesauce Cake is a delightful treat that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering. This moist and flavorful cake has a rich history, often associated with home baking traditions that date back to the early 20th century. It was a popular way to use up excess applesauce, especially during the fall harvest season, making it a staple in many households. What I love most about Applesauce Cake is its incredible balance of sweetness and spice, combined with a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. It’s not just delicious; it’s also incredibly convenient to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. Whether enjoyed as a dessert or a cozy afternoon snack, Applesauce Cake is a beloved recipe that never fails to impress. Join me as we explore how to create this scrumptious cake that will surely become a favorite in your home!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups unsweetened applesauce
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 1 cup raisins (optional)

Preparing the Batter

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully. 2. **Mix Wet Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the unsweetened applesauce, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Use a whisk to blend these ingredients together until they are well combined and smooth. 3. **Add Eggs and Vanilla**: Crack the eggs into the bowl one at a time, whisking after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated. Then, add the vanilla extract and mix until everything is well combined. 4. **Combine Dry Ingredients**: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Sifting helps to aerate the flour and remove any lumps, which is crucial for a light and fluffy cake. 5. **Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients**: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. I like to do this in three parts, mixing gently with a spatula or wooden spoon after each addition. Be careful not to overmix; you want just enough mixing to combine everything into a smooth batter. 6. **Add Nuts and Raisins**: If you’re using walnuts or pecans and raisins, fold them into the batter now. This adds a delightful texture and flavor to the cake.

Cooking Process

7. **Prepare the Baking Pan**: Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This will prevent the cake from sticking and make it easier to remove once it’s baked. 8. **Pour the Batter**: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly. Make sure to smooth the top so that it bakes evenly. 9. **Bake the Cake**: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. I usually start checking for doneness at around 30 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is done. 10. **Cool the Cake**: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important as it helps the cake set and makes it easier to frost or serve.

Assembling and Serving

11. **Frosting (Optional)**: If you want to add a frosting, a simple cream cheese frosting pairs wonderfully with applesauce cake. To make it, beat together 8 oz of cream cheese, 1/4 cup of softened butter, 2 cups of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Spread it over the cooled cake. 12. **Slice and Serve**: Once the cake is completely cool (and frosted if you choose), slice it into squares or rectangles. I like to serve it with a dusting of powdered sugar on top for a little extra sweetness and presentation. 13. **Storage**: If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so delicious!), store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. 14. **Enjoy**: Now it’s time to enjoy your homemade applesauce cake! It’s perfect for dessert, a snack, or even breakfast with a cup of coffee or tea. The moistness from the applesauce keeps it fresh and flavorful for days. This applesauce cake is not only easy to make but also a delightful treat that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. Whether you’re

Conclusion:

In summary, this Applesauce Cake is a must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a moist, flavorful dessert that’s both comforting and easy to make. The combination of warm spices and the natural sweetness of applesauce creates a cake that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive holiday celebration. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up any extra applesauce you might have on hand! For serving suggestions, I love to enjoy this cake warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. You can also sprinkle some chopped nuts or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a handful of raisins or swapping out some of the flour for whole wheat to give it a nutritious twist. I encourage you to give this Applesauce Cake a try and make it your own! Once you’ve baked it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you add any special ingredients or serve it in a unique way? Share your thoughts and variations in the comments below, and let’s celebrate the joy of baking together! Happy baking! Print