Introduction in Alex Guarnaschelli’s Style:
There’s something about applesauce cake that feels like a warm hug on a crisp autumn day. It’s moist, tender, and infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, giving it a cozy, spiced flavor that’s impossible to resist.
The secret? Unsweetened applesauce—it keeps the cake super moist while adding a subtle fruitiness that pairs perfectly with the spices. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make—just one bowl, a handful of ingredients, and no fancy techniques.
Whether you enjoy it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or slathered with cream cheese frosting, this cake is the ultimate comfort bake.
Recipe Resume in Todd Wilbur’s Style:
This Applesauce Cake is rich, spiced, and incredibly moist, thanks to a generous amount of applesauce. The secret? A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, which gives it that classic old-fashioned flavor.
With just one bowl and pantry staples, this cake is the perfect fuss-free dessert—great for snacking, breakfast, or special occasions!
Exciting Story:
The first time I baked applesauce cake, I was looking for something simple but full of flavor. I wanted the warmth of a spice cake but with a little extra moisture.
One bite, and I knew I had found the perfect cozy cake. It’s now a family favorite, especially in the fall when the air is crisp and all I want is a slice of something sweet with a cup of coffee.
Why You’ll Love This Applesauce Cake
🍏🍰 Moist, Spiced & So Easy to Make!
✔ Super moist & flavorful thanks to applesauce.
✔ Packed with cinnamon, nutmeg & cloves for cozy vibes.
✔ No mixer required—just one bowl!
✔ Versatile—top with frosting, glaze, or eat plain!
✔ Perfect for snacking, breakfast, or dessert.
Tips for the Best Applesauce Cake
✔ Use unsweetened applesauce – Keeps the cake moist without making it too sweet.
✔ Let the flavors develop – This cake tastes even better the next day!
✔ Want it extra moist? – Add 2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt to the batter.
✔ For a lighter texture – Swap half the flour for cake flour.
✔ Make it extra cozy – Add a dash of ginger or allspice.
Substitutions and Variations
🔹 No butter? – Use coconut oil or vegetable oil.
🔹 Make it dairy-free! – Swap butter for vegan butter or avocado oil.
🔹 Want more spice? – Add ½ teaspoon ground ginger.
🔹 Make it nutty! – Add ½ cup chopped pecans or almonds.
Make a Healthier Version
✅ Use whole wheat flour – Adds fiber and nutrients.
✅ Swap sugar for maple syrup – Natural sweetness!
✅ Reduce butter – Replace half with unsweetened applesauce.
✅ Use flax egg – Mix 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water for an egg-free version.
Closing in Todd Wilbur’s Style:
And there you have it—Applesauce Cake that’s moist, spiced, and packed with comforting fall flavors! Whether you enjoy it plain, frosted, or with a warm cup of coffee, this cake is a timeless classic.
Make a batch today, and let the cozy flavors fill your kitchen!
Relevant Categories:
- Classic Comfort Bakes
- Moist & Spiced Cakes
- Easy One-Bowl Baking
- Perfect Fall Desserts
Tags:
- Best Applesauce Cake Recipe
- Moist & Spiced Applesauce Cake
- One-Bowl No-Mixer Cakes
- Old-Fashioned Apple Desserts
🍏🍰 Who’s ready to bake up this cozy classic? Let me know how yours turns out! ✨
Applesauce Cake
Description
This Applesauce Cake is rich, spiced, and incredibly moist, thanks to a generous amount of applesauce. The secret? A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, which gives it that classic old-fashioned flavor.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon cloves (optional, but adds depth!)
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or raisins (optional)
Optional Toppings:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Cream cheese frosting
- Maple glaze
Instructions
Step 1: Prep & Preheat
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
- In another bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, egg, vanilla, and applesauce until smooth.
Step 4: Mix & Add Extras
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold until combined.
- Stir in walnuts or raisins, if using.
Step 5: Bake & Cool
- Pour the 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.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Step 6: Top & Serve!
- Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with maple glaze, or frost with cream cheese frosting.
- Slice and enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea!
