Name: Applesauce Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-489211H57M33S
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: All-purpose flour; Baking soda; Baking powder; Ground cinnamon; Ground nutmeg; Salt; Unsweetened applesauce; Granulated sugar or brown sugar; Eggs; Vegetable oil or melted butter; Vanilla extract; Optional: chopped nuts, raisins, or powdered sugar for topping

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Applesauce cake is moist, spiced, and comforting — a simple dessert that tastes like fall in every bite. I love how easy it is to make, and how the applesauce keeps it soft and flavorful without needing much fat or fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this cake because it comes together quickly with pantry staples and turns out delicious every time. The applesauce adds natural sweetness and moisture, while cinnamon and nutmeg give it that warm, nostalgic flavor I crave in cooler months. It’s great for snacking, gifting, or dressing up for dessert. Applesauce Cake

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Baking soda
Baking powder
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Salt
Unsweetened applesauce
Granulated sugar or brown sugar
Eggs
Vegetable oil or melted butter
Vanilla extract
Optional: chopped nuts, raisins, or a dusting of powdered sugar

Directions

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan or square baking dish.
In a bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, spices, and salt.
In another bowl, I mix the applesauce, sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
I stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
If using, I fold in nuts or raisins at this stage.
I pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
I let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 8. It takes about 10 minutes to prep and 40–45 minutes to bake.

Variations

I sometimes swap the oil for extra applesauce to make it even lighter. For a more decadent twist, I top it with cream cheese frosting or a brown sugar glaze. Spices like cloves or ginger also work well if I want more depth.

Storage/reheating

I store the cake tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5. It also freezes beautifully — I wrap slices individually and thaw them as needed. I reheat in the microwave for a few seconds if I want it warm. Applesauce Cake

FAQs

Can I use sweetened applesauce?

Yes, but I reduce the added sugar slightly to balance the sweetness.

Can I make this cake vegan?

Absolutely. I replace the eggs with flax eggs and use oil or vegan butter. It still turns out moist and flavorful.

Can I bake this as muffins?

Yes. I divide the batter into muffin cups and bake for about 18–20 minutes, checking for doneness.

What can I use instead of oil?

I’ve used melted butter, coconut oil, or more applesauce. The texture varies slightly but still works well.

Does this cake need frosting?

Not at all — it’s delicious on its own. But when I want to dress it up, a simple glaze or dusting of powdered sugar does the trick.

Conclusion

Applesauce cake is one of my favorite cozy bakes — soft, spiced, and naturally sweet. Whether I’m making it for a fall gathering or just to have with coffee, it’s a reliable treat that never disappoints.