Name: Applesauce Cake Moist and Flavorful
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2.5 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 0.5 teaspoon ground ginger; 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 0.25 teaspoon ground cloves; 2 cups unsweetened applesauce; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 1 cup vegetable oil; 0.75 cup granulated sugar; 0.75 cup light brown sugar; 1.5 teaspoons vanilla extract; 0.75 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional); 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1.5 teaspoons vanilla extract; 3.5 cups powdered sugar

Jump to Recipe

There’s something truly magical about cutting into a slice of Applesauce Cake Moist and Flavorful. With every forkful, you’ll experience a crumb that’s incredibly soft, spices that warm your heart, and a tangy cinnamon-cream cheese frosting that makes this classic cake impossible to resist. Did you know applesauce cake has been beloved since the early 1900s, gracing family tables and church suppers for generations? My version takes all the nostalgia and coziness up a notch—making it a fast favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert or a sweet after-school treat, this cake comes together with pantry staples, saving you time and effort. If you’ve tried my popular “Carrot Cake Supreme,” you’ll appreciate the same foolproof method and crowd-pleasing flavors here. Let’s get baking and make some new memories with a cake that brings big smiles and empty plates!

What is Applesauce Cake Moist and Flavorful?

Why do we call it Applesauce Cake Moist and Flavorful? Well, I could say it’s just truth in advertising. But honestly, is there anything more delightful than a cake that lives up to its name? When you mix in plenty of applesauce, you’re rewarded with a texture that’s so soft and moist, even picky eaters will be hunting down seconds. And the “flavorful” part? That’s thanks to cozy spices and sweet frosting that make your kitchen smell like grandma’s hug! As they say, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach—so why not win a few hearts with this cake? Go ahead, give it a try and see why everyone falls in love at first bite.

Why You’ll Love This

First and foremost, the highlight of this Applesauce Cake is its irresistibly tender crumb and rich, spiced flavor profile. Moist from applesauce and lightly scented with cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg—it’s about as comforting as cake gets. You’ll also love the savings; homemade means you skip the store-bought price tag and use simple ingredients you probably already have. The final touch? A luscious cinnamon-cream cheese frosting that sets this cake apart. Want crunch? Add walnuts or pecans for a delightful texture contrast. It’s the perfect fall dessert (or anytime treat) for families, potlucks, or a cozy night in. If you enjoyed my “Pumpkin Spice Sheet Cake,” this recipe will be right up your alley. Try it now and see just how easy (and delicious) homemade can be!

How to Make

Quick Overview

Applesauce Cake Moist and Flavorful couldn’t be easier to make. It’s a one-bowl wonder with simple steps: mix wet and dry ingredients, pour into a pan, and bake until golden. With only 15 minutes of prep and 35 minutes in the oven, this is a fuss-free dessert with big rewards. The real showstopper is the cinnamon-cream cheese frosting—creamy, tangy, and perfectly spiced. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a total beginner, this recipe guarantees a soft, flavorful cake every time.

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

2 cups unsweetened applesauce

2 large eggs, room temperature

1 cup vegetable oil

3/4 cup granulated sugar

3/4 cup light brown sugar

1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

3/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For the Frosting:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

3 1/2 cups powdered sugar

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish so your cake releases easily after baking.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves until well combined—this ensures your cake is evenly spiced.
In a large bowl, combine the applesauce, eggs, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything’s completely smooth and incorporated.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently after each addition. Mix only until combined—don’t overdo it to keep the cake tender.
If you’d like, fold in walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Smooth the top gently with a spatula.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it.
Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.
For the frosting: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, cream cheese, cinnamon, and vanilla until light and fluffy. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar until the frosting is smooth and easily spreadable.
Once the cake is completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the surface. Chill slightly in the refrigerator to set before serving.

What to Serve With

Pair a slice of Applesauce Cake with a hot cup of chai or spiced black tea for a warm and cozy treat. For a more elegant dessert, try adding a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on the side. At breakfast, it’s a special treat alongside Greek yogurt and fresh fruit. If you’re serving guests, a charcuterie board of cheeses and nuts provides a savory contrast that highlights the cake’s sweetness and spice. For a festive table, consider adding a light fruit salad with citrus and berries.

Top Tips for Perfecting

Use unsweetened applesauce to control the cake’s sweetness—you can always add more sugar, but you can’t take it away.
If you’re out of certain spices, feel free to experiment! Allspice or cardamom make lovely variations.
Make sure your eggs are at room temperature to help the batter come together smoothly and ensure a fluffy, even texture.
For a nut-free version, simply leave out the walnuts or pecans.
Watch your baking time; oven temperatures can vary. Check for doneness with a toothpick at the 30-minute mark to avoid overbaking, which can dry out the cake.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Store any leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days—the cream cheese frosting stays fresh and the cake maintains its wonderful moisture. You can also freeze slices (wrapped tightly in plastic and foil) for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply leave at room temperature or in the fridge overnight. For reheating, zap briefly in the microwave (no more than 10-15 seconds) just until the cake is gently warmed and the frosting softens.

FAQs

Can I use sweetened applesauce in this recipe?
Yes, but you may want to reduce the amount of granulated sugar slightly to prevent the cake from being too sweet.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free baking blend (make sure it contains xanthan gum).

Can I freeze Applesauce Cake?
Yes. Freeze unfrosted or frosted slices, tightly wrapped, for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

What nuts work best in this recipe?
Both walnuts and pecans complement the spices and apples perfectly, but you can leave them out or substitute with your favorite nuts.

How do I know when the cake is done?
The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached—don’t wait for it to pull away completely from the sides.

Conclusion

Applesauce Cake Moist and Flavorful is a timeless classic that delivers on both comfort and taste. With its soft crumb, warm spices, and irresistible cream cheese frosting, this cake is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Even if you’re short on time or new to baking, this simple recipe ensures delicious success every time. So gather your pantry staples and get ready for a treat that’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any day you crave something sweet. Happy baking—don’t forget to share your homemade slice with someone you love!