Applesauce Cake

This Applesauce Cake is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Its soft, moist texture and classic apple flavor make it a favorite among families. Whether you serve it as a dessert after dinner or as a snack throughout the day, this cake is sure to impress. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized with your favorite additions like raisins or nuts!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This applesauce cake requires minimal effort, making it ideal for both novice bakers and busy cooks.
• Moist and Flavorful: The combination of applesauce and spices ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor and moisture.
• Versatile Add-Ins: You can easily customize this cake by adding raisins, walnuts, or shredded coconut for extra texture and taste.
• Low in Calories: With just 94 calories per slice, this cake is a guilt-free dessert option that satisfies sweet cravings without the excess calories.
• Great for Sharing: Bake a batch to share at gatherings or family events; everyone will love this delicious treat!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your applesauce cake, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• 8-inch baking pan
• Oven mitts

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without any mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth batter by thoroughly mixing liquid ingredients.
• Measuring cups: Ensure accurate ingredient quantities for consistent results.
• Oven mitts: Protect your hands when handling hot pans out of the oven.

Ingredients

This soft and super moist applesauce cake is packed with a delicious classic apple flavor your whole family will love.

For the Cake Base

• 1/2 cup applesauce
• 1/2 cup water
• 3 tbsp oil (or additional applesauce)
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp white vinegar

For the Dry Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups flour (white, spelt, or oat)
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 3/4 tsp baking soda
• 3/4 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon (and optional 1/4 tsp allspice)

Optional Add-Ins

• 1/2 cup raisins, chopped walnuts, or shredded coconut

How to Make Applesauce Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Mix Liquid Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the following:
1. Whisk together the applesauce, water, oil, vanilla extract, and white vinegar. Make sure everything is well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together:
1. The flour, sugar, salt, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and any optional spices.

Step 4: Form the Batter

Add the dry mixture gradually to the wet ingredients:
1. Stir until just combined. If desired, fold in any optional add-ins like raisins or nuts.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into a greased or lined 8-inch baking pan:
1. Bake in the center of your preheated oven for about 18 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked:
1. Let the cake cool before frosting if desired. Enjoy your delicious applesauce cake on its own or with toppings!

This recipe yields about nine slices of delightful applesauce cake that everyone will love!

How to Serve Applesauce Cake

Applesauce cake is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for dessert, a snack, or a special occasion, there are many creative serving suggestions to enhance its flavor and presentation.

With Whipped Topping

• Top each slice of applesauce cake with a dollop of whipped topping for an extra creamy texture that complements the moistness of the cake.

Fresh Fruit Garnish

• Add slices of fresh fruit, like apples or pears, on the side. This adds a refreshing contrast and enhances the apple flavors in the cake.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A light drizzle of caramel sauce over the cake brings a sweet richness that pairs perfectly with the classic apple taste.

Served Warm with Ice Cream

• Enjoy warm slices of applesauce cake alongside a scoop of vanilla or dairy-free ice cream for a comforting dessert experience.

Accompanied by Tea or Coffee

• Serve slices with a cup of tea or coffee. The warm beverages elevate the flavors and create a cozy atmosphere.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Include applesauce cake on a dessert platter with other baked goods. It provides variety and allows guests to sample different treats.

How to Perfect Applesauce Cake

To ensure your applesauce cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips for baking success.

• Choose Quality Applesauce: Use high-quality unsweetened applesauce to get the best flavor and moisture content in your cake.

• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Precision in measuring flour and sugar is key to achieving the right texture. Use measuring cups designed for dry ingredients.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than one that is soft and fluffy.

• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted in the center to check if it’s done. It should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.

• Let It Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting or serving. This helps maintain its structure.

• Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to customize your cake by adding raisins, chopped walnuts, or shredded coconut for extra flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Applesauce Cake

Pairing side dishes with your applesauce cake can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delightful options you might consider serving alongside it.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and complements the sweetness of the applesauce cake.

2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy side that contrasts nicely with the rich flavors of the cake.

3. Green Salad: A simple green salad drizzled with vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance against the sweetness of dessert.

4. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda, which pair well with sweet desserts and create an elegant touch.

5. Nut Mix: Roasted nuts offer crunch and protein, making them an excellent snack option alongside slices of applesauce cake.

6. Vegetable Crudités: Raw veggies served with hummus can add crunchiness while providing healthy nutrients for well-rounded snacking.

7. Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars offer another sweet but less sugary option that complements your dessert beautifully.

8. Chia Pudding: This healthy side is creamy and satisfying while keeping in line with lighter dessert options.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking an applesauce cake can be simple and rewarding, but some common mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Bold Ingredient Substitutions: Using the wrong type of flour can change the texture. Stick to white, spelt, or oat flour for best results.

• Bold Incorrect Measurements: Always measure your ingredients accurately. Using too much or too little can affect the cake’s rise and moisture.

• Bold Skipping the Preheat: Not preheating the oven can lead to uneven baking. Make sure your oven is at 350 F before putting in your cake.

• Bold Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can make the cake dense. Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.

• Bold Not Cooling Properly: Cutting into the cake too soon can affect its structure. Let it cool before serving to enhance flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Applesauce Cake

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Applesauce Cake

• Bold Oven: Preheat to 350 F and warm slices for about 10 minutes.
• Bold Microwave: Heat for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Bold Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious applesauce cake recipe:

What makes Applesauce Cake so moist?

The applesauce adds moisture and flavor without needing extra oil or butter, making it a healthier choice.

Can I customize my Applesauce Cake?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, raisins, or shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.

How do I know when my Applesauce Cake is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready!

Can I use homemade applesauce?

Yes! Homemade applesauce works great and adds even more flavor to your applesauce cake.

Final Thoughts

This soft and moist applesauce cake is perfect for any occasion, from casual snacks to special gatherings. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite mix-ins, making it enjoyable every time you bake it. Don’t hesitate to try this delightful recipe; your family will love it!