Applesauce Cake

Name: Applesauce Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp baking soda; 1½ tsp ground cinnamon; ½ tsp table salt; ¾ cup unsweetened applesauce; ½ cup packed light brown sugar; ⅓ cup canola oil; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ cup apple juice (for frosting); ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting); Pinch of table salt (for frosting); 1½ cups powdered sugar, sifted (for frosting); ½ tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)

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Applesauce cake is a nostalgic, no-fuss dessert that brings together simple ingredients, warm spices, and rich apple flavor in one cozy, moist slice. Whether you’re craving a comforting snack cake or a show-stopping dessert with a luscious apple buttercream frosting, this recipe hits the sweet spot—literally. With its one-bowl simplicity and forgiving texture, this cake is perfect for busy bakers or those new to the kitchen.

Looking for inspiration? Try our banana roll cake recipe for another moist, crowd-pleasing dessert.

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Why Applesauce Cake Is a Classic Worth Reviving

A Slice of American Baking History

Applesauce cake has deep roots in American culinary history, especially in the New England region. This humble dessert became especially popular in the early to mid-20th century when home cooks relied on pantry-friendly ingredients and easy-to-make recipes. By the 1950s, applesauce cake recipes appeared in countless cookbooks, each with its own twist, from raisins and nuts to spiced variations.

The appeal? It was budget-friendly, easy to prepare, and always hit the spot. While trends have come and gone, the warm, spiced flavors and rustic charm of applesauce cake have stood the test of time.

What Makes Applesauce Cake Unique

Unlike airy layer cakes or dense pound cakes, applesauce cake strikes a delightful balance. The applesauce creates a moist crumb, while cinnamon adds cozy spice without overpowering the natural apple flavor. The texture is slightly hearty due to the one-bowl method, yet soft enough to melt in your mouth.

It’s the kind of cake that feels homemade in the best way—no fancy techniques, no stand mixer required. Just a bowl, a whisk, and your appetite.

Perfect Year-Round (Not Just for Fall)

Though apples and cinnamon often evoke autumn vibes, this cake deserves a place at the table year-round. Its ingredients are pantry staples, making it a great last-minute dessert for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight treats. Plus, with options to frost or leave it plain, you can tailor it to the season—or your mood.

Don’t miss our easy cinnamon sugar apple cake if you’re in the mood for something even simpler but equally comforting.

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Best Applesauce Cake

Core Baking Staples

This recipe starts with all-purpose flour, which gives structure and a balanced crumb. Baking powder and baking soda work together as leavening agents to keep the cake fluffy, while a pinch of fine table salt enhances every bite. Light brown sugar brings a subtle molasses note that deepens the flavor without overwhelming the apples.

Canola oil is used instead of butter, making the cake incredibly moist and slightly denser—a texture that holds up beautifully to frosting or slicing.

Star Ingredients That Pack Apple Flavor

The star of the show is unsweetened applesauce, which adds natural sweetness and moisture. Sweetened versions can make the cake overly sugary and may contain spices that throw off the balance.

For the frosting, reduced apple juice gives the buttercream its apple essence without thinning it out. Vanilla extract in both the cake and frosting elevates the overall flavor, making each bite more fragrant and satisfying.

Want more apple-rich ideas? Check out our apple cider donut cake—a seasonal treat you’ll want all year long.

Optional Add-Ins and Substitutes

This cake is incredibly versatile. You can stir in chopped toasted pecans or walnuts for added crunch, or golden raisins for a sweet surprise in every bite. Prefer extra spice? Add a pinch of cloves, cardamom, or go with apple pie spice for an easy blend.

If you’re looking for dairy-free or vegan adjustments, swap the egg for a flax egg and use plant-based butter for the frosting. The result? Still moist, still irresistible.

Don’t miss our caramel apple upside-down cake for a fun twist on traditional apple desserts.

Step-by-Step Applesauce Cake Recipe (With Apple Buttercream)

This applesauce cake is surprisingly easy to whip up. With just one bowl for the batter and a saucepan to concentrate the apple juice for frosting, cleanup is quick and stress-free. You don’t need a mixer—just a whisk and a love for cozy baking.

Make the Cake Batter in One Bowl

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper. Lightly spray it with cooking spray for extra insurance.

In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients:

1½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
1½ tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp table salt

In another bowl (or directly into the dry mix if you’re careful), combine the wet ingredients:

¾ cup unsweetened applesauce
½ cup packed light brown sugar
⅓ cup canola oil
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract

Gently whisk until the mixture is smooth and cohesive. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Avoid over-mixing, which can make the cake dense.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.

Want another soft, spiced treat? Discover our gingerbread loaf cake for a holiday twist on cozy cakes.

Bake It Just Right: Time and Temp

Timing is key. Every oven is slightly different, so start checking at the 28-minute mark. You’re looking for a golden brown top and a center that springs back when lightly pressed.

Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then use the parchment flaps to lift it onto a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before adding any frosting.

If you’re looking for something that packs seasonal flavors in every bite, don’t miss our cranberry white chocolate cheesecake—another decadent option for dessert lovers.

Frost Like a Pro (or Not at All)

This buttercream is where things get fancy—but not difficult. You’ll first reduce ½ cup of apple juice on the stovetop until it becomes a thick, concentrated 2 tablespoons. This adds bold apple flavor without watering down the frosting.

In a mixing bowl, beat:

½ cup unsalted butter, softened
Pinch of table salt
1½ cups powdered sugar (sifted)

Once light and fluffy, drizzle in the cooled apple juice concentrate and ½ tsp vanilla extract. Beat again until smooth and airy.

Spread over your cooled cake using a spatula or butter knife. You can leave the top rustic or swirl it into pretty peaks.

Prefer your cake naked? No problem. A dusting of powdered sugar is a beautiful and less-sweet alternative that lets the spiced applesauce base shine.

Looking for a no-fail dessert? Don’t miss our Christmas fudge cake—it’s just as rich and easy to make.

Flavor Twists and Easy Variations to Try

One of the best things about applesauce cake is how versatile it is. Whether you want to make it nuttier, spicier, or swap out the frosting, there’s a version for everyone.

Crunchy Toppings: Pecans or Walnuts

Add texture by sprinkling chopped, toasted pecans or walnuts on top of the frosting or folding them into the batter. About ½ cup of nuts brings a nutty contrast to the soft crumb.

Bonus tip: toast the nuts in a dry skillet for 3–5 minutes to deepen the flavor before adding them.

Spice It Up Beyond Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a classic match for apples, but you don’t have to stop there. Add ⅛ teaspoon of cloves or cardamom for a spiced aroma, or a teaspoon of apple pie spice for a shortcut blend. It’s an easy way to customize the cake for the holidays.

Craving more holiday flavor ideas? Check out our gingerbread cake recipe for festive spice inspiration.

Frosting Alternatives That Still Work

Not into buttercream? No problem. Here are some easy swaps:

Cream cheese frosting: Tangy and smooth, a great match for apple flavor.
Caramel glaze: Thin, buttery, and rich—ideal if you want a sweet topping that soaks in.
Just powdered sugar: Clean and simple, letting the cake flavor shine.

Or try a cream cheese swirl baked into the batter before baking for a cheesecake-cake hybrid.

Storage Tips for Freshness and Freezing

This cake stores well, whether you’re making it ahead or saving leftovers.

Room Temperature or Refrigerated?

If you’re frosting the cake, it’s best stored in the fridge—especially if your kitchen is warm. Cover it loosely with foil or place in an airtight container to prevent the buttercream from softening or melting.

Without frosting, the cake can safely sit at room temperature for 2–3 days.

Freezing Instructions for Future Snacking

Want to make it ahead? Freeze it unfrosted for best results. Let it cool fully, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Need it fast? Check out our dreamy cotton candy fudge for a quick no-bake dessert fix.

Best Way to Thaw for Perfect Texture

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, or for about 1–2 hours on the counter. Wait until it’s fully thawed before frosting to avoid condensation ruining the texture.

FAQ About Applesauce Cake

Is applesauce cake healthier than regular cake?

It can be! Applesauce adds natural moisture and sweetness, allowing you to reduce oil and sugar. It’s a common swap in low-fat baking.

Can I use homemade applesauce?

Absolutely. Just make sure it’s unsweetened and smooth. Chunky sauce may affect the texture, but will still work.

What’s the best flour substitute?

Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour if you’re avoiding wheat. Almond flour isn’t ideal here—it makes the cake too dense.

Why is my applesauce cake dense?

Over-mixing the batter or using too much applesauce can weigh it down. Mix gently and measure carefully.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Use a 9×13 pan and extend baking time by 10–15 minutes. Always check with a toothpick in the center.

Conclusion: Try This Applesauce Cake Next Time You Crave Something Cozy

From its nostalgic roots to its foolproof method, applesauce cake is the dessert that never disappoints. Moist, warmly spiced, and topped with an irresistible apple buttercream—or enjoyed plain—it’s a recipe you’ll make again and again.

Don’t miss our brown sugar caramel pound cake if you’re looking for your next baking obsession.

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