Grandma’s Applesauce Cake

This Grandma’s Applesauce Cake is a warm, spiced, and incredibly moist dessert, packed with cinnamon, nutmeg, and the natural sweetness of applesauce. Whether you’re baking it for fall, the holidays, or just to enjoy with a cup of tea, this old-fashioned cake is sure to bring comfort and nostalgia to every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Applesauce Cake

Moist & Flavorful: Applesauce keeps the cake tender while adding natural sweetness.
Simple & Easy: Uses basic ingredients with straightforward steps—perfect for all bakers.
Perfect for Fall: The warm spices make it a cozy, seasonal treat.
Versatile: Serve it plain, glazed, or frosted for a variety of flavors.

Recipe Details

Yield: 12–16 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: ~55 minutes

Ingredients

For the Cake:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 ½ cups unsweetened applesauce (homemade or store-bought)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For the Glaze (Optional):

1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons milk or apple cider
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

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

Step 3: Cream the Butter & Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the applesauce.
Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
If using, fold in the chopped nuts.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool completely in the pan.

Step 6: Make the Glaze (Optional)

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk (or apple cider), and vanilla extract until smooth.
Drizzle over the cooled cake.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

Slice the cake into squares and serve.
Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Tips for the Perfect Applesauce Cake

Use Homemade Applesauce: Fresh applesauce enhances the flavor.
Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined for a light, fluffy texture.
Add Raisins or Dried Cranberries: For extra sweetness and texture.
Spice It Up: Try ginger or allspice for a deeper, richer taste.

Serving Suggestions

À La Mode: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
With Coffee or Tea: Enjoy with a warm drink for a cozy treat.
Gift Idea: Wrap slices in decorative boxes for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use store-bought applesauce?
Yes! Use unsweetened applesauce to control the cake’s sweetness.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Refrigerate for up to 5 days.

3. Can I freeze this cake?
Yes! Wrap slices in plastic wrap & foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

4. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute gluten-free flour for the all-purpose flour.

Customization Ideas

Cream Cheese Frosting: Spread with a cream cheese frosting for a richer twist.
Add Fruit: Mix in diced apples or pears for more texture.
Nut-Free Option: Omit nuts or replace them with pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
Spiced Glaze: Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze for extra warmth.

Final Thoughts

Grandma’s Applesauce Cake is a timeless classic that’s perfect for any season. With its moist texture, warm spices, and comforting flavor, it’s a dessert that brings back homemade, old-fashioned goodness.