Looking for a dessert that brings warmth and comfort with every bite? Our Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is exactly that – a moist, tender cake spiced with hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, topped with a luscious cinnamon cream cheese frosting. This cake is easy to prepare, but it tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re baking for family gatherings, cozy autumn days, or simply treating yourself, this applesauce cake is sure to become a favorite.
Why Choose Applesauce Cake?
Applesauce adds a unique moistness and natural sweetness to baked goods, reducing the need for excess fat and sugar. The flavor profile, when combined with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, creates a cake that’s both rich in flavor and tender in texture. Additionally, this recipe is a fantastic way to use unsweetened applesauce, making it slightly healthier without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – The foundation of the cake, giving it structure.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cake rise and achieve a light, fluffy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder – Works with baking soda to add lift.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg – Offers a slightly sweet, nutty undertone.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves – Brings a hint of spice, balancing the cinnamon and nutmeg.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds moisture and richness.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake to perfection.
- 1 large egg – Helps bind the ingredients together.
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce – Adds moisture, tenderness, and natural sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Elevates all the flavors in the cake.
For the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened – The star of the frosting, creating a smooth, tangy base.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and creaminess.
- 3 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens and helps the frosting set.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Complements the cream cheese and cinnamon.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth to the frosting.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake Batter
To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8×8-inch baking dish by greasing and flouring it to ensure easy removal after baking.
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly – this step ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spices, helping to achieve a perfectly flavored and textured cake.
2. Cream the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This can be done using an electric mixer on medium speed. Once the mixture is well-combined, beat in the egg, ensuring it’s fully incorporated for a smooth texture. Follow by stirring in the applesauce and vanilla extract. The applesauce adds moisture and helps the cake maintain a tender crumb.
3. Combine and Bake
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a denser cake. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake the cake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times may vary slightly based on your oven, so start checking around the 30-minute mark. Once done, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan.
4. Prepare the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cake cools, you can prepare the cinnamon cream cheese frosting. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing until the frosting is light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and cinnamon, beating until everything is well-incorporated.
5. Frost and Serve
Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cinnamon cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Use a spatula to create a smooth finish, or make swirls for a more decorative look. Slice, serve, and enjoy the rich flavors of this perfectly spiced applesauce cake with its creamy, cinnamon-infused frosting.
Tips for the Perfect Applesauce Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, cream cheese, and egg are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth, evenly mixed batter and frosting.
- Quality Spices: Since this recipe relies on warm spices, using fresh, high-quality spices will enhance the flavor. Ground spices tend to lose potency over time, so check the freshness before baking.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough cake.
- Cooling Completely: Frosting a warm cake can cause the frosting to melt and slide. Be sure the cake is completely cool before applying the frosting.
How to Store Applesauce Cake
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The frosting’s cream cheese base requires refrigeration. When ready to serve, bring the cake to room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
For longer storage, you can also freeze the cake (without the frosting) for up to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then frost it fresh.
Pairing Suggestions
This applesauce cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee, tea, or even a warm glass of spiced apple cider. The cinnamon and nutmeg notes in the cake bring out the flavors in autumnal beverages, making it a great dessert for cool-weather gatherings or simply relaxing at home.
Variations and Customizations
- Add Chopped Nuts: For a bit of texture, add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum for structure.
- Spice It Up: Feel free to add a pinch of ginger for added warmth, or even cardamom for a unique twist.
- Lighten the Frosting: If you prefer a lighter frosting, reduce the amount of powdered sugar or skip the frosting entirely for a simpler treat.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~350 |
| Carbohydrates | ~52g |
| Protein | ~3g |
| Fat | ~15g |
| Sugars | ~38g |
Enjoy this flavorful cake with friends and family or as a special treat just for you. The balance of spices, applesauce, and creamy cinnamon frosting makes each bite a little piece of heaven!