Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Craving a moist, spiced dessert that is both comforting and crowd-pleasing? Look no further than this delightful Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting. Combining the sweetness of applesauce with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, this cake brings rich flavors to the table without being overly sweet. Topped with a creamy, tangy cinnamon cream cheese frosting, it’s the perfect dessert for fall gatherings, holidays, or simply a cozy night in.

In this guide, we’ll dive deep into how to make this cake, offer tips for success, and discuss its nutritional benefits. Let’s explore why this cake should be on your baking list!

What is Applesauce Cake?

An applesauce cake is a type of moist, spiced cake that uses unsweetened applesauce as one of its main ingredients. Applesauce not only adds flavor but also keeps the cake incredibly tender. By using applesauce, you can reduce the amount of fat in the recipe without compromising texture, making this cake a lighter alternative to traditional butter-laden cakes.

Why Choose Applesauce Cake?

This cake is more than just a delicious treat. It’s:

• Moist: Thanks to the applesauce, this cake stays soft for days.
• Spiced: With cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, it offers the perfect blend of autumnal flavors.
• Easy to Make: Whether you’re a beginner baker or a pro, this recipe is straightforward and foolproof.

Now that you know why this Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is a must-try, let’s get into how to make it.

Ingredients Breakdown: What You’ll Need

For the Cake:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cake.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cake rise.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Adds additional lift.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The key spice for warmth and flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a deeper, earthy flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Enhances the cake’s spicy profile.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and flavor.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake.
• 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together.
• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce: The star ingredient that adds moisture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.

For the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Gives the frosting a tangy, creamy base.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness.
• 3 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds flavor depth.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses the frosting with warm spice.

Step-by-Step Directions for the Perfect Applesauce Cake

1. Prepare the Cake Batter

To begin, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish. Lightly flour the pan to prevent sticking.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. These spices will infuse the applesauce cake with warmth and depth of flavor.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This process helps to incorporate air, resulting in a lighter cake. Beat in the egg until fully combined. Then, add the unsweetened applesauce and vanilla extract. The applesauce not only sweetens but also provides moisture, ensuring your cake stays soft for days.

3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Be sure not to overmix—stir just until the ingredients are combined to avoid a dense cake.

4. Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.

5. Prepare the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cake cools, it’s time to whip up the frosting. In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Slowly add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Beat until the frosting is light, fluffy, and fully combined.

6. Frost the Cake

Once the cake has cooled, spread the cinnamon cream cheese frosting evenly across the top. Slice and serve to enjoy this delicious, spiced treat!

Notes and Tips for Success

Here are a few key tips to ensure your applesauce cake turns out perfectly every time:

• Use Unsweetened Applesauce: For the best flavor and consistency, opt for unsweetened applesauce. If you’re using sweetened, reduce the sugar in the recipe slightly to balance the sweetness.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, cream cheese, and egg are at room temperature before starting. This ensures smooth mixing and an even texture in both the cake and the frosting.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for the best texture.
• Store Properly: This cake can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

One of the advantages of this applesauce cake is that it incorporates healthier ingredients without compromising flavor. The use of applesauce not only provides moisture but also offers dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels.

Here’s the breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:

Nutrition Details (Per Serving):

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 40g
• Vitamin A: 900 IU
• Calcium: 45 mg
• Iron: 1 mg

Health Benefits:

• Applesauce: Rich in fiber, low in fat, and a great substitute for oil or butter in baking.
• Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg have antioxidant properties and can help regulate blood sugar levels.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

In conclusion, this Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is a must-bake for anyone who loves cozy, spiced desserts. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s the perfect cake for both beginners and experienced bakers alike. Enjoy this moist, flavorful cake with your family and friends—it’s sure to become a new favorite!

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