Name: Applesauce Cake Recipe
Prep time: 7 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup applesauce; 1/2 cup water; 3 tbsp oil (or additional applesauce); 2 tsp pure vanilla flavoring; 1 tbsp white vinegar; 1 1/2 cups flour (white, spelt, or oat); 1/3 cup sugar; 3/4 tsp salt; 3/4 tsp baking soda; 3/4 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp cinnamon; Optional: 1/4 tsp allspice; 1/2 cup raisins, chopped walnuts, or shredded coconut

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 4 reviews

If you’re craving a moist, flavorful treat that tastes like a warm hug straight from the oven, this Applesauce Cake Recipe is going to be your new best friend. It’s wonderfully simple yet full of comforting spices, tender crumb, and just the right touch of natural sweetness thanks to applesauce. Whether you need an easy dessert, a delightful snack, or a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, this cake hits all the marks with its perfect blend of texture and taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass mixing bowl filled with thick, light tan dough mixed with small chunks and flour powder dusted on the sides. A silver spoon is partially buried in the dough on the right side of the bowl. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with warm tones reflecting softly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Before diving into baking, it’s great to know how straightforward yet essential the ingredients are for this Applesauce Cake Recipe. Each component plays a key role in delivering that tender crumb, gentle sweetness, and warm spiced flavor that makes this cake so memorable.

Applesauce (1/2 cup): Adds natural moisture and sweetness, keeping the cake soft.
Water (1/2 cup): Balances the batter’s consistency for a perfect texture.
Oil (3 tbsp) or extra applesauce: Provides richness while keeping the cake tender.
Pure vanilla flavoring (2 tsp): Brings a subtle, fragrant sweetness that enhances all the flavors.
White vinegar (1 tbsp): Helps activate the baking soda and powder for a light, airy crumb.
Flour (1 1/2 cups): Use white, spelt, or oat flour to form the cake’s structure.
Sugar (1/3 cup): Adds a gentle sweetness without overpowering the applesauce.
Salt (3/4 tsp): Balances flavors and heightens the sweetness.
Baking soda and baking powder (3/4 tsp each): Work together to help the cake rise beautifully.
Cinnamon (1/4 tsp) and optional allspice (1/4 tsp): Warm spices that make each bite feel cozy and festive.
Optional: 1/2 cup raisins, chopped walnuts, or shredded coconut: Adds delightful texture and bursts of flavor.

How to Make Applesauce Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

First things first, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to get it nice and ready. Grease or line an 8-inch baking pan so the cake releases easily after baking. This little prep step sets you up for smooth sailing later on.

Step 2: Mix the Liquid Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the applesauce, water, oil (or extra applesauce), vanilla flavoring, and white vinegar. Combining these liquids first helps ensure a smooth batter and incorporates the vinegar evenly to activate the leavening agents.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

Now, sift together or whisk the flour, sugar, salt, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and allspice (if using). Gradually add these dry ingredients into your wet mixture. Stir everything until just combined—overmixing can make the cake tough, so a gentle hand is key!

Step 4: Fold in Optional Add-ins

If you like a bit of extra texture or flavor, fold in raisins, chopped walnuts, or shredded coconut now. These extras create little delightful surprises with each bite and bring more personality to your applesauce cake.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top evenly. Place it on the center rack of the oven and bake for about 18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting or serving. Just wait—this Applesauce Cake Recipe tastes even better the next day!

How to Serve Applesauce Cake Recipe

Six square pieces of carrot cake are arranged on a dark metal tray, each piece topped with a thick, creamy white frosting layer that is smoothly spread with visible swirls. The carrot cake has a warm brown color with a slightly rough texture underneath the frosting. A red apple is positioned at the top of the tray, and on the left side, a white plate on a white marbled surface holds one piece of cake with frosting, along with a silver fork resting beside it. A red bandana cloth with white patterns lies beneath the plate. The lighting highlights the soft texture of the frosting and the rich color of the cake. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar instantly elevates the look and adds a hint of sweetness without overshadowing the natural flavors. For a cozy touch, sprinkle cinnamon on top or add a dollop of whipped cream or cream cheese frosting. Fresh apple slices or a few chopped nuts can also add charm and texture when serving.

Side Dishes

This applesauce cake pairs beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee, making it perfect for an afternoon treat. For an indulgent dessert plate, consider serving it alongside vanilla ice cream or a scoop of Greek yogurt drizzled with honey. It’s a seamless way to combine creamy and fruity notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to switch things up? Cut the cake into small squares and arrange them on a platter for a festive party bite. You can also layer it with a fruit compote or a cinnamon glaze for extra flair. Personalizing your presentation makes sharing this Applesauce Cake Recipe even more fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your applesauce cake is completely cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps the cake soft and flavorful without drying out, perfect for enjoying with minimal effort the next day.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil, then freeze for up to two months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature, and you’ll have a homemade treat ready whenever the craving hits.

Reheating

For a warm and comforting slice, reheat pieces in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or pop them in a low oven (around 300°F) for 10 minutes. This revives the moisture and flavor, making it taste freshly baked all over again.

FAQs

Can I use homemade applesauce in this Applesauce Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade applesauce works great and adds a lovely fresh flavor. Just be sure it’s unsweetened to keep the cake’s sweetness balanced.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to choose one that contains xanthan gum or add it separately to help with structure and texture.

Can I add other fruits or nuts to the recipe?

Definitely! Diced apples, chopped nuts, raisins, or shredded coconut all make fantastic additions that complement the spices and applesauce beautifully.

Why is vinegar included in this recipe?

Vinegar reacts with the baking soda to help the cake rise and become light and fluffy. It also enhances the flavor by balancing the sweetness and spices.

How long does this cake stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, this cake stays fresh and moist for about three days, but it often tastes even better the next day!

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a simple yet irresistibly moist and tasty cake, this Applesauce Cake Recipe is a treasure. It’s easy to make, flexible with ingredients, and absolutely delicious every single time. Trust me, once you try it, it will become a staple in your baking lineup. Go ahead, give it a whirl and enjoy all the warm, cozy vibes this cake brings to your table!