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 (or apple pie spice mix)
  • 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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Did you make this recipe? Please kindly leave a comment with your star rating below.

5 from 2 reviews

Applesauce Cake

Yield: 15
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 35 minutes
Total: 45 minutes
Author: Lily Ernst
Course: Dessert, Snack
Method: Bake
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.
Print Leave a Review Pin Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 & 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup (125ml) vegetable oil
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup unsweetened applesauce

Optional

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

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350F a grease a 9×13 baking dish.
  • In a medium bowl, toss together the flour.
    2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • Add the baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
    1 & 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, 2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil and sugar.
    1/2 cup (125ml) vegetable oil, 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • Add the eggs and applesauce, then whisk until combined.
    2 large eggs, 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • Stir in the dry ingredients until just combined. Fold in the raisins and nuts if using. Transfer the batter to the prepared baking dish.
  • 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.
Calories: 218kcal, Carbohydrates: 29g, Protein: 3g, Fat: 11g, Saturated Fat: 2g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g, Monounsaturated Fat: 2g, Trans Fat: 0.1g, Cholesterol: 22mg, Sodium: 196mg, Potassium: 57mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 15g, Vitamin A: 38IU, Vitamin C: 0.2mg, Calcium: 13mg, Iron: 1mg
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Recipe adapted from