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Applesauce Cake

An Irresistible Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

There’s something undeniably comforting about a homemade cake that brings back cherished memories. This Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is one such dessert—a sweet, tender, and incredibly moist cake made from scratch with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.

Growing up, my family was definitely a dessert family. One particular favorite, passed down from my Grandma to my Mom, was this applesauce cake. Baked in a trusty 9 x 13 aluminum lidded pan, its aroma was unmistakable and could be recognized from a distance. This cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a slice of nostalgia that transports me straight back to Grandma’s cozy kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This applesauce cake is a timeless classic for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make and uses ingredients you likely already have. Its moist texture and perfectly spiced flavor make it an irresistible treat. Plus, the cinnamon cream cheese frosting adds a delightful creamy touch that enhances the cake’s sweetness without being overpowering.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

  • 9 x 13 baking pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer
  • Saucepan
  • Spatula

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups applesauce
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 3/4 cup golden raisins or raisins
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans

Frosting Ingredients:

  • 1/3 cup butter
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons milk
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

For the Cake:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9 x 13 baking pan.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the cake ingredients except for the raisins and pecans. Beat at low speed, scraping the bowl often until the ingredients are moistened. Increase the speed to high and beat until smooth.
  3. Stir in the raisins and 1/2 cup of pecans.
  4. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
  5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

For the Frosting:

  1. Melt 1/3 cup of butter in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until it just starts to turn golden. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
  2. In a bowl, combine the browned butter, confectioners’ sugar, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla. Beat at medium speed, gradually adding milk, until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
  3. Once the cake has cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Sprinkle with 1/4 cup of pecans if desired.

Tips for Success

  • Ensure your butter is softened before mixing for a smoother batter.
  • Let the melted butter cool completely before using it in the frosting to prevent it from becoming too runny.
  • Adjust the milk in the frosting to achieve your preferred consistency.

Additional Tips or Variations

If you’re not a fan of raisins or pecans, feel free to leave them out or replace them with your favorite nuts or dried fruit. For an extra touch of decadence, serve the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or simply dust it with powdered sugar.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This cake is a delightful treat, but remember to enjoy it in moderation. Each serving is packed with flavor, offering a satisfying balance of sweetness and spice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, this cake can be made a day in advance. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
  • Can I freeze this cake? Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
  • Is there a substitute for applesauce? If you don’t have applesauce, you can use mashed bananas or pumpkin puree, though it will slightly alter the flavor.

Conclusion

This Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful blend of simplicity and nostalgia, offering a taste of home in every bite. I invite you to give this recipe a try and share your experiences. I’d love to hear how it turned out for you and any personal twists you might have added. Enjoy!