Ingredients
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 cup unsweetened applesauce
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
Prepare the Cake Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8-inch baking dish. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, then stir in the applesauce and vanilla extract until well combined.
Combine and Bake: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
Make the Frosting: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon, beating until light and fluffy.
Frost and Serve: Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the cinnamon cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Slice and serve this moist, spiced applesauce cake with its deliciously creamy frosting
Notes
1. Use Unsweetened Applesauce
Using unsweetened applesauce lets you control the sweetness of your cake. If you only have sweetened applesauce, reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe by about ¼ cup to balance the flavors.
2. Get Creative with Add-Ins
Want to elevate your cake? Try adding in chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a bit of crunch. Or, throw in a handful of raisins or diced apples for extra texture.
3. Spice it Up
If you’re a spice lover, feel free to adjust the spices. Adding a pinch of allspice or ginger can give the cake even more depth. You could also increase the cinnamon by an extra ½ teaspoon.
4. Make It Ahead
This cake actually tastes even better the next day! Make it ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight to let the flavors meld. Just bring it to room temperature before serving.
5. Frosting Consistency
For a thicker frosting, add a bit more powdered sugar until you reach your desired texture. If you prefer it on the softer side, a tablespoon of milk or cream can make it smoother.
6. Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you’d like to freeze it, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. It’ll keep well for 2-3 months in the freezer!
7. Serving Suggestions
For an extra touch, dust the top with cinnamon or powdered sugar before serving. This cake is also delicious when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: ~300
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
Keywords: Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting