Applesauce Cake Recipe: A Moist and Flavorful Delight
Welcome to a delicious journey of creating a moist and flavorful Applesauce Cake! This recipe is a perfect blend of sweet applesauce and warm spices, yielding a cake that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Applesauce Cake is incredibly moist and packed with flavor, making it an irresistible treat for dessert lovers. The use of applesauce adds a natural sweetness and ensures the cake stays soft and tender. It’s a versatile cake perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive celebration, this cake shines with its simplicity and delightful taste.
Furthermore, this cake is easy to make with pantry staples, allowing you to whip up a delicious homemade cake without the fuss. It’s also a great way to use up any leftover applesauce, making it both economical and delicious.
Context/Background
Applesauce Cake has its roots in early American baking traditions, where applesauce was often used in cakes to reduce the amount of sugar and fat required. This technique not only enhanced the flavor but also kept the cake moist longer, which was essential in the days before refrigeration.
Today, applesauce cake is beloved for its nostalgic flavor and health-conscious ingredients—it’s a wonderful example of how a simple ingredient can elevate the humble cake into something truly special.
Recipe Details
Serves: 8-10
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a large bowl, combine the applesauce, granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. If using, fold in the chopped walnuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Perfect Applesauce Cake
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake tender.
- Feel free to add a handful of raisins for extra texture and flavor.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing for clean cuts.
Serving Suggestions
This applesauce cake is delightful on its own, but consider serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it an ideal snack or dessert.
Storage and Leftovers
Store any leftover applesauce cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to two months. To serve, thaw at room temperature.
Final Thoughts
Try this applesauce cake for a deliciously moist and flavorful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Its simplicity and comfort factor make it a must-try recipe that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Recipe Notes
- For a gluten-free variation, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
- If desired, dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance.
- Replace walnuts with pecans or omit them altogether if you prefer a nut-free cake.