Save
This soft and moist applesauce cake brings out the best of simple baking with a tender crumb and cozy apple flavor. It is perfect for sharing at family gatherings or any afternoon when you crave something lightly sweet that feels nostalgic.
The first time I made this I was surprised just how rich and comforting it tasted without any fancy ingredients. My family loves it warm right from the oven and it has become our go-to cozy treat in apple season.
Ingredients
- Applesauce: gives natural sweetness and keeps the cake very moist try using unsweetened for the best texture
- Water: helps blend everything evenly and ensures a tender crumb
- Oil or extra applesauce: adds moisture and helps the cake stay soft I sometimes use coconut oil for subtle flavor
- Pure vanilla extract: gives depth and a warm note using real extract is worth it
- White vinegar: reacts with baking soda for a fluffy rise you will not taste it at all
- Flour: you can use white spelt or oat depending on what you have for slightly different textures
- Sugar: sweetens just enough without overwhelming the apple flavor I use regular granulated for a classic result
- Salt: brings out the sweet notes and balances flavors use fine sea salt if possible
- Baking soda and baking powder: ensure a perfect rise every time check freshness for best results
- Cinnamon and optional allspice: lend a classic apple cake spice profile use freshly ground if possible
- Optional add-ins: like raisins chopped walnuts or shredded coconut bring extra texture and fun I love using walnuts for crunch
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 350 F and make sure the rack is in the center so the cake bakes evenly. Grease or line an 8 inch pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl whisk together the applesauce water oil or extra applesauce vanilla extract and vinegar until completely combined and smooth. Go slowly to ensure the oil does not separate.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl whisk together the flour sugar salt baking soda baking powder cinnamon and allspice if using. Mixing them separately keeps the leaveners evenly distributed for a consistent rise.
- Form the Batter
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Stir gently with a spatula or spoon until just combined. Do not overmix or the cake may turn out dense. Fold in any optional add-ins at this point.
- Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Place in the oven and bake for about 18 minutes. The cake should be lightly golden and spring back when gently pressed in the center.
- Cool and Frost
- Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes then lift it out to cool completely on a rack. Frost as desired or dust with a little powdered sugar. The flavor actually improves by the next day.
Save
My favorite part is how the applesauce naturally sweetens and moistens the cake making it taste so fresh even with no eggs. One year my kids helped mix in raisins and walnuts and declared it the best cake ever for school lunch boxes.
Storage Tips
This applesauce cake stores best tightly covered at room temperature for up to three days. For longer freshness refrigerate up to one week. You can freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic and foil for up to two months and thaw as needed.
Ingredient Substitutions
Gluten free flour blends can replace the regular flour with good results but check if a little extra water is needed. Maple syrup can stand in for the sugar though reduce the water slightly. If you like a richer taste melted butter or coconut oil swaps well for the oil.
Save
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy plain for a snack with tea or coffee. Top with a dusting of cinnamon sugar or spread with cream cheese frosting for a special dessert. This cake also pairs nicely with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or dairy free coconut whip.
Cultural and Historical Context
Applesauce cakes have roots in American home baking especially during times when eggs and butter were scarce. The applesauce both stretches the batter and gives natural moistness. These cakes were a staple in many family cookbooks and still lend nostalgia today.
Recipe FAQs
- → How can I make this cake even softer?
Use extra applesauce instead of oil and avoid overbaking for best results.
- → Which type of flour works best?
White, spelt, or oat flour all yield soft, tender crumb with slightly different flavors.
- → Can I add other mix-ins?
Yes, try mixing in raisins, walnuts, or shredded coconut for extra texture and flavor.
- → Is it suitable for vegans?
Yes, this cake contains no dairy or eggs, making it a plant-based option.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Keep slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for best freshness.