Applesauce cake is incredibly easy to make, using just one bowl and no mixer required. The applesauce keeps the cake wonderfully moist without the need for a lot of oil or butter. It’s naturally dairy-free, easily adaptable, and full of warm, spiced flavor. This is a go-to recipe for quick desserts, snack cakes, and even breakfast treats.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
All-purpose flour
Baking soda
Baking powder
Salt
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg (optional)
Applesauce (unsweetened or sweetened)
Granulated sugar or brown sugar
Eggs
Vegetable oil or melted butter
Vanilla extract
Optional: raisins, chopped nuts, or a simple glaze
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch square or round cake pan.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
In another bowl, whisk together applesauce, sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix just until combined.
Fold in raisins or nuts if using.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a glaze before serving, if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 8–10 people. Prep time: 10 minutes Bake time: 35 minutes Total time: 45 minutes
Variations
Add raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped apples for texture.
Use whole wheat flour for a heartier version.
Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
Replace sugar with maple syrup or honey for natural sweetness.
Top with cream cheese frosting or cinnamon glaze for a sweeter dessert.
Storage/Reheating
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Refrigerate for up to 5 days for longer storage. Freeze individual slices for up to 2 months—wrap tightly in plastic and foil. To reheat, warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds per slice.
FAQs
Can I use sweetened applesauce?
Yes, just reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet cake.
Is this cake dairy-free?
Yes, it contains no milk or butter if made with oil.
Can I make this cake vegan?
Yes, use flax eggs or a plant-based egg substitute, and oil instead of butter.
What kind of oil works best?
Vegetable, canola, or melted coconut oil all work well.
Can I make this cake in a loaf pan?
Yes, bake for about 45–50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Is this cake suitable for breakfast?
Absolutely—it’s lightly sweet and great with coffee or tea.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for baking.
Why is my cake dry?
Make sure not to overbake and measure the flour correctly by spooning and leveling.
What toppings go well with applesauce cake?
Powdered sugar, glaze, whipped cream, or even a dollop of applesauce.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust baking time accordingly.
Conclusion
Applesauce cake is a timeless dessert that’s easy to make, full of cozy flavor, and wonderfully moist. It’s perfect for using up extra applesauce and makes a great treat for any season. Whether enjoyed plain or dressed up, this cake is a simple pleasure that never goes out of style
Applesauce cake is a moist, warmly spiced dessert made with pantry staples and naturally sweetened with applesauce. Simple to prepare and perfect for any season, especially fall, it’s a cozy and comforting classic.
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
1 cup unsweetened applesauce
3/4 cup granulated sugar or brown sugar
2 large eggs
1/3 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup raisins or chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch square or round cake pan.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
In another bowl, whisk together the applesauce, sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix just until combined.
Fold in raisins or nuts if using.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with glaze before serving, if desired.
Notes
Sweetened applesauce can be used, but reduce the sugar slightly.Add-ins like raisins, chopped apples, or cranberries enhance flavor and texture.Use whole wheat flour for a more wholesome version.Top with cream cheese frosting or cinnamon glaze for a sweeter dessert.Wrap individual slices for freezing and easy reheating.
