If there’s one dessert that feels like a hug in cake form, it’s this Applesauce Cake. It’s the kind of nostalgic, no-fuss bake that smells like fall and tastes like cozy evenings. Moist, spiced, and just sweet enough, this is the cake your grandma probably made (and if she didn’t, she missed out).

This recipe brings together everything I love about rustic baking. It’s got pantry ingredients, no need for a mixer, and that comforting whiff of cinnamon and nutmeg wafting through your kitchen. Trust me, you won’t want to wait for it to cool.

Recipe Snapshot

Category	Details
Yield	9 slices
Serving Size	1 slice
Prep Time	15 minutes
Bake Time	40 minutes
Total Time	55 minutes
Calories per Serving	~310 calories
Primary Cooking Method	Baking
Cooling Time	30 minutes
Occasion	Anytime, Holidays, Potlucks
Diet Type	Vegetarian

Calories are approximate and may vary depending on exact ingredients used.

Applesauce Cake Recipe

Recipe by Angela JonesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

slice

Prep time

minutes

Bake Time

minutes

Calories

310

kcal

Say hello to your next weekly bake obsession! This Applesauce Cake is super moist, loaded with cozy spices, and ridiculously easy to put together. One bowl, no mixer, and no complicated steps.

It’s the kind of cake you whip up on a lazy Sunday and snack on all week long. Whether you’re craving something comforting or need a foolproof dessert for guests, this one nails it. The applesauce does all the heavy lifting to keep it tender and flavorful, so every slice is a guaranteed win.

Ingredients

For the Cake
1 1/2 cups unsweetened applesauce
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
1/2 cup raisins or chopped dates (optional)
Optional Glaze
1 cup powdered sugar
1–2 tablespoons milk or cream
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Prepare Your Baking Environment
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready once your batter is mixed. Then, grease an 8×8-inch square baking pan with butter or non-stick spray, or line it with parchment paper if you want easy lift-out action.
Whisk Together the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the applesauce, packed brown sugar, granulated sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk or electric hand mixer to blend everything together until smooth and uniform in texture. The mixture should be a bit frothy and creamy.
Sift and Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves (if using). Sifting helps remove any lumps and makes your cake lighter. Give it a quick stir with a spoon or whisk to evenly distribute the spices and leavening agents.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Use a rubber spatula or wooden spoon to fold the flour in gently. Stir until just combined—you want to avoid overmixing, which can lead to a tough cake.
Add Your Optional Mix-ins
If you’re adding chopped nuts, raisins, or dates, fold them in now. These add-ins give extra texture and flavor but are totally optional. Make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Pour and Smooth the Batter
Pour the finished batter into your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth the top so it bakes uniformly. Tap the pan on the counter a couple of times to release any air bubbles.
Bake to Perfection
Place the cake in the center of your preheated oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s done.
Cooling Time
Let the cake rest in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully remove it and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step is crucial if you plan to glaze the cake.
Make and Apply the Glaze (Optional)
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk (start with 1 tablespoon and add more if needed). Once the cake is fully cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top. You can use a spoon or small piping bag for more control.

Extra Tips

For a richer flavor, toast your nuts before folding them into the batter.
Want a denser, more pound-cake-like texture? Swap half the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour.
If you’re using homemade applesauce, make sure it’s well-puréed and not too watery.
Let the cake cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting and soaking in.
A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top before baking adds a subtle crunch.
If you’re using dates instead of raisins, chop them finely so they blend evenly.
Store the cake covered with a cake dome to retain moisture without it getting soggy.

Equipment List

Mixing bowls (one large, one medium)
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk and rubber spatula
8×8-inch baking pan
Wire cooling rack
Sifter (optional, but helps with lump-free flour)

Make-Ahead Tips

Want to get a head start? You can absolutely prep this Applesauce Cake ahead of time in a few clever ways. Mix the dry ingredients—like flour, spices, and leavening agents—a day or two in advance and keep them sealed in an airtight container.

You can even bake the entire cake, cool it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze it for up to two months. The glaze can be made early too—just refrigerate and stir before using. Best part? This cake actually tastes better the next day!

Storage Instructions

This cake stores like a dream thanks to its rich moisture. If unfrosted, you can leave it covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. Once glazed or if your kitchen is warm, pop it in the fridge and it’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days—just bring it to room temp before serving if you prefer.

Want to freeze it? Wrap the fully cooled unfrosted cake tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight, glaze if needed, and slice to serve.

Ingredient Selection

Choosing the right ingredients makes all the difference in this recipe. Go for unsweetened applesauce—it’s the star that keeps the cake moist without overwhelming it with sugar.

If you’re feeling fancy, homemade applesauce works beautifully as long as it’s smooth and well-puréed. For flour, stick with all-purpose to keep the texture light and fluffy, but whole wheat flour can add a nice rustic touch.

Brown sugar adds depth and molasses-y richness, so don’t skip it. And if you’re tossing in nuts or dried fruits, use fresh ones for the best bite.

FAQ

Can the brown butter be skipped?

Yes! Browned butter adds a deep, nutty flavor to the frosting, but you can absolutely use regular unsalted butter for a more classic cream cheese frosting flavor.

Can nuts be added to the cake batter?

Definitely. Feel free to add 3/4 to 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for some extra crunch and nutty goodness.

Can the recipe be made with homemade applesauce?

Absolutely! Just make sure it’s fully pureed and free of added sugar or chunky bits.

Can you taste applesauce in the cake?

It doesn’t scream “apple,” but it does give the cake a subtle tang and keeps it incredibly moist.

Serving Suggestions

This cake is super versatile when it comes to serving. You can keep it casual and serve it straight from the pan, or get a little fancy and lift it out using parchment to present on a pretty tray.

Either way, it’s delicious. Enjoy it plain or topped with a dollop of cream cheese frosting. Serve it up as a cozy afternoon snack, a casual dessert, or even a late-night treat with your favorite tea or coffee on the side. It’s basically comfort on a plate.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount (per serving)
Calories	310 kcal
Carbohydrates	47 g
Protein	3 g
Fat	13 g
Saturated Fat	3.5 g
Polyunsaturated Fat	5 g
Monounsaturated Fat	2.5 g
Trans Fat	0.2 g
Cholesterol	34 mg
Sodium	119 mg
Potassium	73 mg
Fiber	1 g
Sugar	34 g
Vitamin A	160 IU
Vitamin C	0.5 mg
Calcium	40 mg
Iron	1 mg

Values are approximate and based on a 9-slice yield. Exact values may vary depending on ingredients used.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve made it this far, chances are you’re already halfway to preheating your oven—and honestly, I don’t blame you. This Applesauce Cake is that comforting, fuss-free treat we all need in our lives.

It’s nostalgic without being outdated, sweet without going overboard, and simple enough for anyone to nail on their first try. Serve it to friends, make it just for you, or freeze it for later—you really can’t go wrong. Here’s too many cozy bites and second slices. You deserve them.

Easy Applesauce Cake Recipe

Recipe Snapshot