A Summery Twist on a Classic American Favorite
When I think of summer afternoons growing up in the Midwest, I can almost smell the aroma of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg wafting through Grandma’s farmhouse kitchen. Her applesauce cake was one of those magical recipes she never needed to measure—just a dash of this and a scoop of that. It was humble, hearty, and incredibly moist, with a soft texture that practically melted in your mouth.
Today, I’m sharing a modern, measured version of that beloved applesauce cake recipe, staying true to its roots while making it easy enough for anyone to bake at home. It’s perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or just a sunny day when you need a little slice of comfort.
Why You’ll Love This Applesauce Cake Recipe
- Super moist thanks to the applesauce
- Naturally sweet and spiced
- One bowl—easy cleanup!
- Perfect for summer gatherings
- Can be made dairy-free or gluten-free with simple swaps
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need for this summer-perfect applesauce cake:
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 ¾ cups unsweetened applesauce
- 1 cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar)
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- ½ cup neutral oil (like canola or avocado oil)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ½ cup raisins or chopped dates
Optional Cream Cheese Glaze
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
You can use store-bought or make your own homemade applesauce for a deeper, natural apple flavor.
Detailed Instructions: How to Make Applesauce Cake
1. Preheat & Prepare Your Baking Dish
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or oil. For easier cleanup and removal, line it with parchment paper, allowing a bit of overhang on the sides.
- If using a non-stick spray, make sure to coat the corners well to prevent sticking.
2. Whisk Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
- Use a whisk to mix thoroughly, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour. This step is key to infusing warm flavor into every bite.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients
- In a separate large bowl, add:
- 1 ¾ cups unsweetened applesauce
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
- ½ cup neutral oil (such as canola or avocado)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Beat the mixture using a whisk or hand mixer on medium speed until everything is fully blended. The texture should be smooth, glossy, and slightly thick.
4. Combine Wet & Dry
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the wet mixture, about 1/3 at a time.
- Stir gently with a spatula or mixer on low speed, just until combined. Avoid overmixing—this keeps the cake tender and soft.
- If the batter looks a bit thick, that’s okay—it should be dense but pourable.
5. Add Optional Mix-Ins
- At this point, gently fold in:
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch
- ½ cup raisins or chopped dates for extra sweetness
- These ingredients are optional, but they add wonderful texture and flavor.
6. Transfer to Pan & Smooth
- Pour the batter evenly into your prepared baking pan.
- Use a spatula to smooth out the top and gently tap the pan on the counter to eliminate air bubbles.
7. Bake the Cake
- Place the cake in the center of the preheated oven.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, depending on your oven. Start checking at 35 minutes.
- To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready.
8. Cool the Cake
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes.
- Then transfer it (using parchment paper handles, if used) to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.
9. Make the Cream Cheese Glaze (Optional)
- In a small bowl, beat together:
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tbsp milk (adjust to get your preferred drizzle consistency)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Beat until smooth and pourable.
- Once the cake is fully cooled, drizzle glaze over the top using a spoon or piping bag for a beautiful finish.
10. Serve & Enjoy!
- Slice the cake into 12 generous squares.
- Serve it as-is, or elevate it with whipped cream, ice cream, or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.
Tips & Variations
- Make it vegan: Swap eggs for flax eggs and use dairy-free cream cheese in the glaze.
- Make cupcakes: Bake in a muffin tin for 18–22 minutes.
- Add fruit: Stir in chopped apples or pears for extra juiciness.
- Storage: Keeps well covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for 5 days.
What Makes This Applesauce Cake So Special?
The star of this cake is, of course, the applesauce. It not only keeps the crumb incredibly moist but adds a depth of natural sweetness and subtle fruit flavor. Plus, using applesauce means you can use less fat—ideal for a lighter summer treat.
And let’s not forget the spice blend. It’s warm, aromatic, and just the right balance to keep the cake from being too sweet. It’s like biting into a slice of nostalgia with every forkful.
What to Serve With Applesauce Cake
Here are a few pairing ideas to make your dessert table shine:
- Whipped cream and fresh berries
- A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream
- Iced coffee or cold brew
- Sparkling apple cider for a refreshing twist
Why Use Applesauce in Baking? (Health & Nutrition Benefits)
Applesauce isn’t just for kids or cozy fall dishes—it’s a brilliant baking ingredient that brings both flavor and nutrition to the table. Here’s why this humble ingredient deserves the spotlight in your summer baking:
1. Keeps Cakes Moist Without Extra Fat
Applesauce acts as a natural substitute for oil or butter. It keeps your cake incredibly moist and soft while reducing the overall fat content. For those watching their calories or saturated fat intake, it’s a win-win.
2. Naturally Sweet
Because applesauce has a gentle natural sweetness, it lets you cut back on refined sugar in recipes—without sacrificing flavor.
3. Fiber Boost
Applesauce, especially when made from whole apples, retains a good amount of soluble fiber. Fiber supports digestion and helps stabilize blood sugar levels.
4. Vegan & Allergy-Friendly
It’s a smart swap for eggs in vegan baking and works well for those with dairy or egg allergies. Plus, it’s shelf-stable and easy to find in any grocery store.
5. Low Glycemic Option
Compared to other sweeteners and fats, unsweetened applesauce has a lower glycemic index, making it a better option for those managing blood sugar.
So, not only does applesauce enhance the taste and texture of this cake—it makes it a little healthier and heartier too. Now that’s a slice worth savoring.
Frequently Asked Questions – Applesauce Cake Recipe
1. Can I use sweetened applesauce instead of unsweetened?
Yes, you can! If you’re using sweetened applesauce, just reduce the granulated sugar by about ¼ cup to balance the sweetness. Always taste your applesauce first—some brands are much sweeter than others.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Definitely. In fact, this cake often tastes better the next day as the spices and applesauce meld together for deeper flavor. Store it tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate it for up to 5 days for maximum freshness.
3. Can this cake be frozen?
Yes! This applesauce cake freezes beautifully:
- Cut into slices and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge or leave at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
4. What can I substitute for eggs to make it vegan?
For a vegan version, substitute each egg with:
- 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water (let sit for 5 minutes to gel) Or
- ¼ cup mashed banana or unsweetened yogurt (plant-based)
Also ensure you’re using dairy-free cream cheese for the glaze or simply skip the glaze and dust with powdered sugar.
5. How do I make it gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend that includes xanthan gum. The texture might be slightly denser, but the flavor and moistness will still shine through.
6. Can I add fruit or veggies to the batter?
Absolutely. Here are a few add-in ideas:
- Chopped apples (peeled or unpeeled) for extra fruitiness
- Grated carrots for a carrot-cake twist
- Zucchini for added moisture and sneaky veggies
Keep the total add-ins to about 1 cup to avoid overloading the batter.
7. What kind of applesauce works best?
Unsweetened applesauce is best for controlling the sweetness. Look for one that’s smooth and not too watery. Homemade applesauce adds amazing flavor—just ensure it’s well-blended and not too chunky.
8. Can I make this cake in another pan size?
Yes! Here’s a quick guide:
- Bundt pan: Bake 45–55 minutes
- Two 8-inch rounds: Bake 30–35 minutes
- Cupcakes: Bake 18–22 minutes
Always check with a toothpick for doneness and adjust baking time accordingly.
Final Thoughts – A Slice of Simple Joy
This applesauce cake recipe isn’t just a dessert—it’s a celebration of simplicity, flavor, and those little nostalgic moments that make baking so special. With its moist crumb, warm spices, and a subtle apple sweetness, this cake feels like a comforting hug on a sunny summer day.
Whether you’re serving it at a picnic, slicing it up for a brunch spread, or sneaking a piece with your morning coffee (no judgment!), this cake is one of those easy wins that brings joy with every bite.
Even better? It’s incredibly adaptable. Swap in nuts, dried fruit, or even grated veggies. Go gluten-free, vegan, or give it a decadent cream cheese drizzle. This is a recipe meant to evolve with your tastes and traditions.
