Name: Delicious Applesauce Cake That's Moist and Guilt-Free
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 43 min
Ingredients: 1 cup applesauce (sweetened or unsweetened); 1/2 cup water; 1 cup oil or additional applesauce (substitute with extra applesauce for a healthier option); 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (opt for high-quality extract); 1 teaspoon white vinegar; 2 cups flour (white, spelt, or oat); 1 cup sugar (unrefined coconut sugar is preferred); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon baking powder; cinnamon and allspice (optional); raisins, chopped walnuts, or shredded coconut (optional mix-ins)

As I savored the aroma of baking applesauce cake wafting through my kitchen, I couldn’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia. This delightful treat not only fills the air with cozy apple and spice scents but is also a heartwarming companion to cherished moments with family and friends. Our moist applesauce cake is the perfect choice for those seeking a healthier twist on traditional desserts—it’s egg-free, dairy-free, and oil-free, making it a guilt-free indulgence. With just nine simple ingredients, you can whip it up in no time, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use that extra applesauce sitting in your pantry. Are you ready to embrace this delicious blend of comfort and health in your own home? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is this applesauce cake so special?

Moist Texture: The applesauce lends a breathtaking moisture that creates a soft and tender crumb, making every bite a delightful experience.

Guilt-Free Indulgence: Enjoy a dessert without the extra calories—this cake is egg-free, dairy-free, and oil-free, ensuring you can indulge healthily.

Easy to Make: With just nine ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both novice bakers and busy schedules. It’s ready in no time, leaving you more moments to savor!

Customizable Flavor: Feel free to mix in your favorite add-ins like raisins or nuts for added texture and flair. For an alternative sweet moment, try my Coconut Cream Pancakes.

Family Favorite: Its delightful apple flavor and comforting spices make this cake a hit with kids and adults alike. Perfect for gatherings, just like my Oreo Cheesecake Cookie Cups.

Applesauce Cake Ingredients

For the Batter
• Applesauce – Adds moisture and sweetness; you can use sweetened or unsweetened varieties, or even homemade applesauce for a personal touch.
• Water – Combines the ingredients and helps maintain moisture throughout the baking process.
• Oil or Additional Applesauce – Brings richness to the cake; for a healthier twist, substitute with extra applesauce.
• Pure Vanilla Extract – Elevates the flavor profile; opt for high-quality extract for the best results.
• White Vinegar – Essential for activating baking soda to create that perfect rise in your applesauce cake.
• Flour (white, spelt, or oat) – Forms the cake’s structure; feel free to substitute with gluten-free options like oat flour or gluten-free blends.
• Sugar – Sweetens the cake perfectly; unrefined coconut sugar is my go-to, but regular white or brown sugar also works well.
• Salt – A pinch balances the sweetness beautifully and enhances the overall flavor.
• Baking Soda and Baking Powder – These leavening agents work together to give the cake that light, fluffy texture.
• Cinnamon and Allspice (optional) – Adds warmth and spice flavors for a cozy, inviting aroma.
• Raisins, Chopped Walnuts, or Shredded Coconut (optional) – Optional mix-ins for delightful texture and flavor variety. Enjoy customizing this healthy applesauce cake!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Applesauce Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your baking pan. Grease an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper. This ensures that your moist applesauce cake releases easily after baking and maintains a lovely shape.

Step 2: Mix Liquid Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: 1 cup of applesauce, ½ cup of water, and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. If you’re using oil, add it here. This mixture should appear smooth and well combined, imparting a lovely scent that promises deliciousness as it warms in the oven.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together 2 cups of flour, 1 cup of sugar, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon each of baking soda and baking powder. If you chose to include spices like cinnamon or allspice, add them at this stage. This step is crucial for even distribution of flavors and ensures your applesauce cake has the right structure.

Step 4: Create the Batter
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cake light and fluffy. The batter should look slightly lumpy but coherent, with the delightful aroma of apples wafting into the air, hinting at the delicious cake to come.

Step 5: Transfer to the Pan
Pour the batter into your prepared 8-inch baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. This ensures a uniform bake and an appealing shape for your moist applesauce cake. Take a moment to appreciate the inviting aroma as you get ready for the next step.

Step 6: Bake and Check for Doneness
Place the pan on the center rack of your preheated oven and bake for approximately 18 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cake is fluffy and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it toward the end, as ovens can vary.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the applesauce cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allow the cake to cool completely for the best texture and flavor—waiting overnight enhances its sweetness and moisture further, making it a delightful treat to enjoy!

Make Ahead Options

These moist applesauce cake preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can mix the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and spices) up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Additionally, the homemade applesauce can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 1 week before making the cake. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the dry ingredients with the wet components, pour the batter, and bake as instructed. This ensures you can whip up a delightful dessert with minimal effort, all while enjoying that comforting, sweet aroma of freshly baked applesauce cake!

What to Serve with Moist Applesauce Cake

As you pull your luscious applesauce cake from the oven, imagine the perfect companions that will elevate this delightful dessert experience.

Creamy Dairy-Free Ice Cream: A scoop of coconut or almond-based ice cream drizzled over the warm cake creates a beautiful contrast in temperature and texture.
Fresh Whipped Coconut Cream: Light and airy, this adds a touch of sweetness while enhancing the apple flavors in your cake, making every bite a luxurious treat.
Warm Spiced Cider: A steaming cup of spiced apple cider complements the cake beautifully, adding warmth, comfort, and additional apple notes to your dessert spread.
Nutty Granola: The crunch of roasted nutty granola on top of your slice introduces a delightful texture that balances the soft moistness of the applesauce cake.
Fruit Salad Medley: A fresh mix of seasonal fruits brings brightness and acidity, cutting through the sweetness and making for a refreshing pair with your cake.
Chopped Toasted Nuts: Toasted walnuts or pecans sprinkled on top add a lovely crunch, enhancing the flavors while providing a pleasant, nutty contrast.
Chocolate Drizzle: For a touch of indulgence, a simple dark chocolate ganache or drizzle elevates your applesauce cake, appealing to chocolate lovers.
Tea or Coffee: A warm cup of chai tea or freshly brewed coffee not only complements the spices in the cake but also creates a cozy feel for your dessert time.

How to Store and Freeze Applesauce Cake

Fridge: Store your applesauce cake in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This helps maintain its moist texture while keeping it deliciously fresh.

Freezer: For longer storage, slice and wrap the applesauce cake tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Reheating: To enjoy a slice of frozen cake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then warm it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds before serving.

Enjoying Later: Let the cake cool completely before freezing to preserve its moisture and flavor—perfect for a guilt-free indulgence whenever the craving strikes!

Expert Tips for Applesauce Cake

Whisk Thoroughly: Ensure the liquid ingredients are well whisked for a uniform batter, which helps the applesauce cake rise evenly.
Monitor Baking: Ovens can vary widely in temperature; check for doneness a few minutes early by inserting a toothpick to avoid overbaking.
Cool for Flavor: Letting your cake cool overnight enhances sweetness and flavor, making it taste even better the next day.
Customize Wisely: Feel free to add raisins or walnuts, but be cautious not to overload the batter, which can affect the applesauce cake’s texture.
Measure Accurately: Use the correct measuring techniques—spoon flour into the cup and level off—to prevent a dense cake.
Storage Savvy: To maintain freshness, refrigerate leftovers for up to 3-4 days or freeze slices for later indulgence.

Applesauce Cake Variations You’ll Love

Feel free to explore these fun twists and substitutions to make this applesauce cake your very own!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend or oat flour to cater to gluten sensitivities without sacrificing taste.
Dairy-Free Creamy Glaze: Top with a dairy-free glaze made from powdered sugar and almond milk for extra sweetness and flair.
Whole Wheat Flour: Swap all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour to up the nutty flavor and add more fiber.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or a dash of ginger to elevate the flavor profile with a hint of warmth.
Nuts Galore: Incorporate your favorite nuts, such as pecans or almonds, for a satisfying crunch in every slice.
Apple-Cinnamon Delight: Fold in fresh apple chunks and a sprinkle more cinnamon for an even more delightful apple flavor.
Zesty Citron: Mix in some lemon zest for a refreshing citrus twist that perfectly brightens this cake.

Remember, whether you add a touch of spice or incorporate comforting mix-ins, this applesauce cake is all about making delicious memories together! Don’t miss out on trying my delightful Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches for another scrumptious dessert idea!

Applesauce Cake Recipe FAQs

What kind of applesauce should I use?
You can use sweetened or unsweetened applesauce based on your preference. Homemade applesauce offers a personal touch and can enhance the flavor even more. Just ensure it is smooth for the best results in your moist applesauce cake.

How do I store leftovers?
Store your applesauce cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This method retains its delightful moisture and keeps it fresh. You can also cover it with plastic wrap if that’s what you have on hand!

Can I freeze applesauce cake?
Absolutely! To freeze, slice the cake and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. This method helps protect the cake from freezer burn. You can store it for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.

What if my applesauce cake is too dense?
If your cake turns out dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter or incorrect flour measurements. Be sure to mix only until just combined, and when measuring flour, spoon it into the measuring cup and level off with a spatula. This ensures you’re not packing in too much flour, which can weigh the cake down.

Are there any dietary considerations for pets?
While this applesauce cake is healthy for humans, it’s not suitable for your furry friends. Ingredients like sugar and certain spices may not be safe for dogs or cats. Always keep baked goods away from pets to avoid any unwanted health issues.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the regular flour with oat flour or any gluten-free flour blend. If using a blend, ensure it includes xanthan gum for proper structure. This way, everyone can enjoy a slice of this delectable applesauce cake!