Imagine a cake so moist, so perfectly spiced, and so incredibly easy to make that it becomes your go-to dessert for every occasion. This Applesauce Spice Cake is not just a recipe—it's a warm hug in cake form, packed with cozy autumn flavors that will transport you to a world of pure culinary bliss. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe promises to deliver a delectable treat that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or 8x8-inch square baking pan with butter or cooking spray, and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt until well combined and no lumps remain.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the unsweetened applesauce, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk these wet ingredients thoroughly until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough cake.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure an even surface.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional: Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar or frost with a simple cream cheese or vanilla glaze for extra sweetness.
- Slice and serve the cake at room temperature. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure eggs and applesauce are at room temperature for better mixing and a more consistent texture.
- Don't overmix the batter: Mix just until ingredients are combined to keep the cake tender and light.
- Check for doneness early: Start checking the cake around 35-40 minutes to prevent overbaking.
- For extra moisture, use unsweetened applesauce: This helps maintain the cake's soft, delicate crumb.
- Customize your spices: Feel free to add a pinch of ground cloves or ginger for more depth of flavor.
- Cool completely before serving: This helps the cake set and makes slicing easier.
- Store properly: Keep the cake in an airtight container to maintain its moisture and freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 35mg
