This applesauce cake is soft, moist, and perfectly spiced. It’s an easy-to-make, old-fashioned recipe that will remind you of the good old days. Slices of applesauce cake on a marble plate.

Why you’ll love this recipe:

  • Great taste and texture: This cake is soft, fluffy, and tender. The applesauce adds a natural sweetness and moisture to the cake. The cinnamon and nutmeg gives a warm and cozy aroma and taste. The raisins and walnuts (if included) add flavor and a nice contrast in texture.
  • Easy to make: The recipe uses ingredients that are readily available and is straightforward to follow. It’s perfect for beginner bakers or anyone looking for a quick and easy dessert recipe.
  • Crowd-pleaser: The cake is a classic dessert that’s loved by many. It’s perfect for potlucks, parties, afternoon tea, or any occasion where you want to share a delicious dessert with friends and family.

A slice of old-fashioned applesauce cake on a white plate.

Ingredients you’ll need:

  • AP flour
  • baking soda & salt
  • ground cinnamon & nutmeg
  • vegetable oil or any neutral-tasting oil
  • granulated sugar
  • eggs
  • unsweetened applesauce
  • optional: raisins & chopped walnuts or pecans

How to make applesauce cake:

(the ingredient amounts are listed in the printable recipe card further below)

  1. In a medium bowl, toss together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, sugar, eggs, and applesauce.
  3. Stir in the dry ingredients until just combined. Fold in the mix-ins if using.
  4. Transfer the batter into a 9×13″ greased baking dish. Bake at 350F for 30-35 minutes.

process shots of how to make applesauce cake

How to serve:

Serve plain as is or with a dusting of powdered sugar. Enjoy as a dessert or snack. For special occasions, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. 

FAQ:

Does applesauce make a cake moist?

Yes, because applesauce has a high moisture content, it helps make cakes moist, and the fiber helps retain the moisture in the cake.

Can I use sweetened applesauce in this recipe?

Yes, you can. Just reduce the amount of sugar by two tablespoons to maintain the same level of sweetness.

How should I store the cake?

The cake can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It can also be stored in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw the cake in the fridge overnight before serving.

A slice of applesauce cake topped with whipped cream on a white plate.

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Applesauce Cake

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 1 review
  • Author: Lily Ernst
  • Prep Time: 10 min
  • Cook Time: 35 min
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 15
  • Category: dessert, snack
  • Method: bake
  • Cuisine: American
Print Recipe

Description

This applesauce cake is soft, moist, and perfectly spiced. It’s an easy-to-make, old-fashioned recipe that will remind you of the good old days.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 & 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup (125ml) vegetable oil
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup unsweetened applesauce

Optional

  • 1/2 raisins
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350F a grease a 9×13 baking dish.
  2. In a medium bowl, toss together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, sugar, eggs, and applesauce.
  4. Stir in the dry ingredients until just combined. Fold in the raisins and nuts if using. Transfer the batter to the prepared baking dish.
  5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It can also be stored in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Recipe adapted from