When the fall season arrives, there’s something magical about the warm, nostalgic scent of apples and spices filling the kitchen. This moist, classic applesauce cake is an absolute gem for cozy gatherings, simple desserts, and even breakfast treats! It’s quick to make, soft in texture, and perfect for anyone who loves that homestyle apple flavor. Let’s dive in and whip up this delightful applesauce cake your whole family will love!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup applesauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 3 tbsp oil (or additional applesauce if you want to keep it oil-free)
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp white or cider vinegar
- 1 1/2 cups flour (white, spelt, or oat flour all work well)
- 1/3 cup sugar (unrefined if desired)
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 tsp baking powder
- 3/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon (add 1/4 tsp allspice if you want extra warmth)
- Optional add-ins: 1/2 cup raisins, chopped walnuts, or shredded coconut
How to Make Applesauce Cake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8-inch pan by greasing or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix the liquids: In a large bowl, whisk together the applesauce, water, oil (or more applesauce for oil-free), vanilla extract, and vinegar. The vinegar might seem surprising, but it works with the baking soda to give the cake a fluffy lift.
- Add the dry ingredients: Sift the flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and cinnamon together. Gradually add this dry mix to the liquid ingredients, stirring until just combined. The batter will be a bit thick—perfect for that soft, moist crumb.
- Incorporate your extras: If you’re using raisins, nuts, or coconut, gently fold them into the batter at this stage.
- Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth out the top. Place on the center rack of your oven and bake for about 18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool & Enjoy: Let the cake cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. You can serve it plain or frost it with your favorite icing. Pro tip: This cake gets even more flavorful the next day, so consider making it ahead!
Helpful Tips for the Perfect Applesauce Cake
- Choosing Your Flour: White, spelt, or oat flour each give a slightly different texture. White flour yields a softer cake, while oat flour adds a bit more density and a lovely, subtle earthiness.
- Oil vs. Extra Applesauce: Using oil will make the cake slightly richer, while swapping for more applesauce will keep it extra moist but low in fat.
- Baking Consistency: Be careful not to over-mix your batter. Stir until everything is just combined for a fluffy, tender texture.
Substitutions & Variations
- Make it Gluten-Free: Swap out the flour with a gluten-free flour blend that works well for baking.
- Add a Twist: If you’re feeling adventurous, try a dash of nutmeg or ginger for extra spice, or mix in a handful of chopped apples for added texture.
- Go Vegan: This recipe is already vegan-friendly as written, just double-check your sugar if you’re strictly vegan!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This applesauce cake actually tastes even better the day after baking, as the flavors meld together beautifully.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store this cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. If you’d like to freeze it, wrap the slices individually in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to three months.
Can I add frosting?
Yes, a classic cream cheese frosting or a simple dusting of powdered sugar makes a wonderful topping for this cake!
This applesauce cake is a must-try for fall baking or any time you want a sweet treat that’s anything but ordinary. Enjoy!
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Moist & Flavorful Applesauce Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: 9 slices 1x
Description
This applesauce cake is soft, tender, and bursting with classic apple flavor! Quick to make, this simple yet delicious cake is perfect for any fall gathering or as an everyday treat. It’s moist, lightly spiced, and even tastier the next day. Your family will love it!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup applesauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 3 tbsp oil (or additional applesauce for oil-free)
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp white or cider vinegar
- 1 1/2 cups flour (white, spelt, or oat flour)
- 1/3 cup sugar (unrefined if preferred)
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 tsp baking powder
- 3/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon (optional 1/4 tsp allspice for extra spice)
- Optional: 1/2 cup raisins, chopped walnuts, or shredded coconut
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8-inch pan by greasing or lining it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together applesauce, water, oil (or extra applesauce for oil-free), vanilla extract, and vinegar.
- Sift the flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and cinnamon together. Gradually add this dry mix to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. If using raisins, nuts, or coconut, gently fold them into the batter now.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top. Bake on the center rack for about 18 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Serve plain, or frost as desired.
Notes
- Flavor Boost: This cake tastes even better the next day, so feel free to bake it ahead of time.
- Storage: Store at room temperature in an airtight container for 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Freeze slices for up to 3 months.
- Variations: Try adding a dash of nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth, or fold in a handful of chopped apples for texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 94 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg