Apple Sauce Spice Cake

Apple Sauce Spice Cake is a warm and comforting dessert that’s perfect for fall or any time you’re craving the rich flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and apples. This cake is incredibly moist, thanks to the apple sauce, and it fills your kitchen with the wonderful aroma of spices while baking. Whether served on its own or topped with a dollop of whipped cream or frosting, this cake is a crowd-pleaser and is super easy to make!

Apple Sauce Spice Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe for its simplicity and delightful flavors. The apple sauce not only keeps the cake moist but adds a subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with the warm spices. It’s a wonderful option for family gatherings, cozy fall afternoons, or as a quick dessert to whip up when you’re short on time. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover apple sauce you may have!

The Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon ground cloves
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup unsweetened apple sauce
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or raisins

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.
  2. Combine the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
  3. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  4. Add the apple sauce and vanilla: Beat in the apple sauce and vanilla extract until smooth.
  5. Mix in the dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. If using, fold in the chopped walnuts or raisins.
  6. Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or cream cheese frosting.

Serving and Storage Tips

  • Serving: This cake is delicious on its own or served with whipped cream or cream cheese frosting. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee.
  • Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze the cake for up to 3 months.

Helpful Notes

  • For a little extra crunch, consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter.
  • You can easily double the recipe to make a larger cake for gatherings.
  • If you like a spicier flavor, increase the amount of cinnamon or nutmeg to suit your taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use sweetened apple sauce?
Yes, you can use sweetened apple sauce, but you may want to reduce the sugar slightly to balance the sweetness.

2. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it includes a binding agent like xanthan gum for best results.

3. How can I make the cake more moist?
The apple sauce already adds moisture, but for an even moister cake, you can add a tablespoon of oil or an extra ¼ cup of apple sauce.

4. Can I add a glaze to this cake?
Yes, a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk would work wonderfully, or try a caramel glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.

5. How do I store leftover cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Final Thoughts

Apple Sauce Spice Cake is the ultimate cozy dessert, perfect for cooler months or any time you want a taste of comforting, warm flavors. With its easy preparation and deliciously moist texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy it with a hot cup of coffee or tea, and savor the flavors of fall!

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