If you’re craving something sweet yet wholesome, this Applesauce Cake Recipe is your answer. It’s tasty, moist, and really simple to make using items you most likely already own. Whether you’re baking for a weekend treat or a special gathering, this recipe for applesauce cake will win everyone over, guaranteed.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Moist and Flavorful Texture

The soft and rich texture of the cake results from using applesauce as an ingredient. You won’t need a ton of butter or oil to achieve that dreamy texture.

Simple Pantry Ingredients

No fancy stuff here—just everyday items you likely have sitting in your kitchen right now.

What is Applesauce Cake?

A Classic Twist on Old-Fashioned Desserts

Applesauce cake is an old-school comfort dessert that’s been modernized for ease and flavor. It’s the kind of recipe passed down through generations—and for good reason!

Ingredients Needed for the Applesauce Cake Recipe

Before we dive in, gather these goodies:

Dry Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 ½ teaspoons baking soda

½ teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon cinnamon

½ teaspoon nutmeg

½ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

1 ½ cups unsweetened applesauce

1 cup granulated sugar

½ cup brown sugar

2 large eggs

½ cup vegetable oil

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Add-ins

½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans

½ cup raisins or chocolate chips

Tools You’ll Need

Mixing bowls

Electric mixer (or good old-fashioned whisk)

Spatula

Measuring cups and spoons

9×13 inch baking pan

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Applesauce Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Use either butter for greasing your pan or place parchment paper inside it.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs. Next, mix in the oil, vanilla, sugar, brown sugar, and applesauce.

Step 4: Blend Everything Together

Slowly incorporate the dry mixture into the prepared wet mixture. Stir until just combined. Don’t overmix—it makes the cake dense.

Step 5: Pour and Bake

The procedure starts with batter distribution into the pan, followed by flattening the surface of the batter. Both baking times of 35 to 40 minutes might be necessary to verify that the toothpick emerges clean.

Tips for the Perfect Applesauce Cake

Avoid Overmixing

Mixing too much activates gluten, which can make your cake rubbery. Just fold gently until the batter comes together.

Let It Cool Properly

After the required 10 to 15 minutes of pan cooling time, the cake can be transferred to a wire rack.

Variations You Can Try

Add Nuts or Raisins

Want extra texture? Toss in chopped walnuts or raisins for an old-school bakery vibe.

Chocolate Chip Applesauce Cake

For a modern twist, add semi-sweet chocolate chips into the batter. You won’t regret it.

Serving Suggestions

This applesauce cake recipe is amazing on its own, but you can also top it with cream cheese frosting, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

Storage and Shelf Life

An airtight container should be used to store leftovers, which can stay fresh at room temperature for three days or less. For a longer shelf life, refrigerate it—it’ll stay good for up to a week.

Health Benefits of Using Applesauce

Using applesauce instead of butter or oil cuts down on fat without sacrificing flavor. Additionally, it gives the cake natural sweetness, fiber, and antioxidants.

Conclusion

This applesauce cake recipe is everything you want in a homemade dessert—easy, tasty, moist, and made with simple ingredients. This will rapidly become a staple in your kitchen, regardless of your level of baking experience. So grab that jar of applesauce, and let’s get baking!

FAQs

Is it possible to substitute sweetened applesauce with the unsweetened version?

Yes, but reduce the sugar slightly so your cake doesn’t end up too sweet.

Can I make this recipe for applesauce cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.

What’s the best topping for applesauce cake?

Cream cheese frosting or a dusting of powdered sugar adds just the right touch of sweetness.