Imagine a warm, inviting kitchen filled with the comforting aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg. The moment you take a bite of this Applesauce Spice Cake, your taste buds will dance with delight as flavors blend harmoniously, creating an irresistible experience that’s perfect for any occasion. classic red velvet cake This cake is not just dessert; it’s a hug in a slice.
A few years ago, I made this Applesauce Spice Cake for my family reunion. The cheers and smiles as everyone savored each bite were priceless moments that I’ll cherish forever. cozy fall pumpkin cookies It’s the kind of cake that brings people together, making it ideal for gatherings, cozy evenings, or just because you deserve a treat! layered pumpkin cake recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The Applesauce Spice Cake is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels
- Its delightful blend of spices creates a comforting flavor profile that warms the soul
- With its golden-brown color and fluffy texture, this cake is visually appealing on any dessert table
- Plus, you can enjoy it plain or dressed up with frosting, making it versatile for any occasion!
Baking this delightful cake has always brought joy to my family, especially when my kids eagerly await their first slice. ultimate chocolate cake.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Applesauce: Use unsweetened applesauce for the best flavor balance; homemade is even better if you have the time!
- All-Purpose Flour: Opt for good quality flour to ensure a light and fluffy cake texture. For more inspiration, check out this easy yogurt cake recipe.
- Granulated Sugar: Regular white sugar works wonders here; feel free to adjust based on your sweetness preference.
- Baking Soda: Fresh baking soda ensures your cake rises perfectly; check the expiration date if it’s been sitting in your pantry.
- Cinnamon: A generous amount adds warmth and depth; choose Ceylon cinnamon for a more delicate flavor.
- Nuts (optional): Chopped walnuts or pecans add crunch; toast them beforehand to enhance their flavor.
- Eggs: They bind the ingredients together and add richness; use room temperature eggs for better mixing.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract elevates the flavor profile; avoid imitation for the best results.
- Vegetable Oil: It keeps the cake moist and tender; don’t skimp on this ingredient!
- Salt: Just a pinch balances flavors; don’t skip it even if you’re watching sodium intake!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
First things first: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a standard 9×13 inch baking pan and grease it lightly with cooking spray or butter.
Mixing Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and optional nuts until well combined. This ensures even distribution of flavors throughout your cake. For more inspiration, check out this delicious marble cake recipe.
Add Wet Ingredients: Create a well in the center of your dry mixture and pour in applesauce, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Stir gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep your cake light.
Pour Batter into Pan: Transfer the batter into your prepared baking pan using a spatula. Smooth out the top evenly so it bakes uniformly without any lopsided surprises.
Bake Your Cake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Enjoy the mouthwatering smells wafting through your kitchen!
Cool & Serve: Once baked, let your Applesauce Spice Cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature with whipped cream or frosting if desired!
Your kitchen should now be filled with an aroma that’s hard to resist—dig in!
You Must Know
- Applesauce Spice Cake is not just delicious; it’s a warm hug in cake form
- The aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg fills the air, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy afternoons
- Each bite offers a moist, tender texture that will have everyone asking for seconds
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing the dry ingredients first, then blend the wet ones separately to enhance flavor distribution. This sequence ensures even baking and a consistent taste throughout your Applesauce Spice Cake.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap applesauce for mashed bananas or add nuts and raisins for extra texture. Experimenting with spices like cardamom can elevate your Applesauce Spice Cake to new flavor heights.
Storing & Reheating
Store your cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze slices individually wrapped in plastic wrap, then thaw before serving for maximum freshness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the best flavor, use unsweetened applesauce; it allows spices to shine
- Always check for doneness using a toothpick—moist crumbs indicate perfection!
- Lastly, let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent melting
There was that one time I made this Applesauce Spice Cake for a family gathering, and everyone raved about it! My cousin even asked if I could bake one every week—it was that good!
FAQ
Can I use store-bought applesauce?
Absolutely! Store-bought applesauce works well but choose unsweetened for balanced flavor.
How long does the cake last?
The cake lasts up to three days at room temperature in an airtight container.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for delicious results.
Applesauce Spice Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the warm, cozy flavors of Applesauce Spice Cake. This delightful dessert combines the rich aromas of cinnamon and nutmeg with the moistness of applesauce, creating a cake that’s perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat at home. Enjoy it plain or dressed up with frosting; either way, it’s sure to bring smiles to your table!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and optional nuts.
- Make a well in the dry mixture and add applesauce, eggs, oil, and vanilla. Stir until just combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
