Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

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Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Introduction

This Applesauce Cake is moist, spiced, and irresistibly comforting. Made with pantry staples and a generous amount of applesauce, it delivers a tender crumb and rich flavor without being overly sweet. Topped with a luscious cinnamon cream cheese frosting, this cake is perfect for fall gatherings, holiday desserts, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee. It’s a timeless recipe that feels both nostalgic and indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Moist & tender: Applesauce keeps the cake soft and flavorful.

Warm spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves create cozy depth.

Creamy frosting: Tangy cream cheese frosting with a cinnamon twist.

Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or family dinners.

Recipe Details

Yields: 12 servings

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Bake Time: 40–45 minutes

Total Time: ~1 hour 5 minutes

Calories: ~350 kcal per serving

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 ½ tsp baking powder

1 tsp baking soda

½ tsp salt

1 tsp ground cinnamon

½ tsp ground nutmeg

½ tsp ground cloves

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

½ cup brown sugar

2 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 ½ cups unsweetened applesauce

For the Frosting

8 oz cream cheese, softened

¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

3 cups powdered sugar

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1 tsp vanilla extract

1–2 tbsp milk (optional, for consistency)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.

  1. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.

  1. Cream Butter & Sugars

In a large bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).

  1. Add Eggs & Vanilla

Beat in eggs one at a time.

Stir in vanilla extract.

  1. Combine Wet & Dry

Gradually add dry mixture to wet mixture, alternating with applesauce.

Begin and end with flour mixture. Mix until just combined.

  1. Bake

Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.

Bake for 40–45 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

Cool completely in pan on wire rack.

  1. Make Frosting

Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.

Gradually add powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla.

Adjust consistency with milk if needed.

  1. Frost & Serve

Spread frosting evenly over cooled cake.

Slice and serve.

Tips for Success

Room temperature ingredients: Ensures smooth mixing and even texture.

Don’t overmix: Keeps cake tender.

Cool cake fully: Prevents frosting from melting.

Chill frosting briefly: Makes spreading easier.

Variations

Nutty twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to batter.

Fruit boost: Fold in raisins or diced apples.

Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend.

Layer cake: Bake in round pans and stack with frosting between layers.

Serving Ideas

Pair with hot coffee or spiced tea.

Garnish with extra cinnamon or apple slices.

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Perfect for fall holidays or cozy gatherings.

Storage

Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 5 days.

Freezer: Freeze unfrosted cake for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost before serving.

Conclusion

This Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is moist, spiced, and topped with creamy sweetness. It’s a recipe that brings warmth and nostalgia to the table, making it perfect for any occasion.

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