With the crispness of fall in the air, I often find myself embracing the warmth of my kitchen, where the sweet aroma of cinnamon and apples transforms the space into a cozy retreat. This recipe for Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is an invitation to indulge in the heartwarming flavors of the season. Not only is this cake easy to make, but it also offers a delightful twist on traditional desserts by using moist homemade applesauce. Perfect for gatherings or quiet evenings at home, this cake is a true crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s adaptable to suit various dietary needs with a gluten-free option available! What’s your favorite way to enjoy a slice of cozy comfort?
Why is this cake a fall favorite?
Warm, Inviting Flavors: The combination of cinnamon and apples creates a cozy aroma that fills your home, making it a perfect treat for autumn gatherings.
Moist Texture: Thanks to the homemade applesauce, this cake remains delightfully moist, ensuring every bite is tender and satisfying.
Versatile Options: Whether you’re adapting it for gluten-free diets or adding walnuts for extra crunch, this recipe allows for personal touches!
Easy Prep: Minimal effort is required, making it a fantastic option for busy schedules or last-minute dessert needs.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: The delightful frosting adds a creamy contrast that pairs beautifully with the cake, making it a must-have at any gathering! If you love creamy desserts, you might also enjoy Cream Cheese Squares for another indulgent option.
Applesauce Cake Ingredients
• Discover the perfect blend for your Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting!
For the Cake
- All-Purpose Flour – Aids in structure; swap with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake; use light brown sugar for a deeper flavor kick.
- Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Ensure a fluffy texture; always check for freshness for best results.
- Cinnamon – Infuses warmth; adjust to your taste for that perfect autumn spice.
- Salt – Enhances overall flavor; never skip to balance sweetness.
- Unsweetened Applesauce – Keeps the cake moist; homemade applesauce elevates the flavor profile.
- Vegetable Oil – Maintains tenderness; can substitute with olive oil or melted coconut oil for a different taste.
- Eggs – Binds the cake together; no recommended substitutes for this role.
For the Frosting
- Cream Cheese – The creamy base of your frosting; ensure it’s softened for smooth blending.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting; adjust to achieve your desired sweetness and consistency.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds aromatic depth; opt for pure vanilla for the best flavor experience.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing it lightly with butter or cooking spray. This will ensure that your Applesauce Cake releases easily after baking. Get ready to fill your kitchen with cozy aromas!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients for the cake: all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk them together until well blended. This not only mixes the flavors but also aerates the flour, contributing to a fluffy texture. Set aside the dry mixture as you prepare the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: unsweetened applesauce, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until the ingredients are well-combined and smooth. The moisture from the applesauce will help keep your cake tender. Pour this fragrant mixture into the dry ingredients in the next step.
Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually stir the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Gently mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as it could lead to a denser cake. You should see a lumpy batter forming, which is perfectly fine. This step is crucial for making the perfect Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting!
Step 5: Pour Batter into Pan
Carefully pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth the top. This ensures even baking and beautiful results. Once the batter is in the pan, it’s time to place it in the oven.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for approximately 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes; when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. The cake should be golden brown, and the aroma of cinnamon will fill your kitchen.
Step 7: Allow to Cool
Once baked, carefully remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is vital because frosting the cake while it’s warm can lead to melting frosting, so patience is key!
Step 8: Prepare the Frosting
While the cake cools, prepare the creamy frosting. In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Ensure there are no lumps by mixing thoroughly. This will create the perfect creamy layer for your Applesauce Cake.
Step 9: Frost the Cake
Once the cake is fully cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top using a spatula. Smooth the frosting for an inviting finish. This delightful layer of frosting will complement the moist, spiced cake beautifully.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Your Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is now ready to serve! Slice it into squares and savor the cozy flavors with friends or family. Perfect for an afternoon treat or a festive gathering, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home!
Make Ahead Options
These Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cake up to 3 days in advance. Simply bake and allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature. For the frosting, make it ahead and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply take the cake out, frost it, and slice it up. For the best taste and texture, keep the cake covered until serving to maintain its moisture, ensuring it’s just as delicious as when freshly baked!
How to Store and Freeze Applesauce Cake
Room Temperature: Store the unfrosted Applesauce Cake at room temperature, covered, for up to 4 days to keep it moist and delicious.
Fridge: Once frosted, keep the cake in the refrigerator, wrapped in plastic wrap or placed in an airtight container, for up to 4 days. This will ensure the creamy frosting stays fresh.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can last in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy the cake warm, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then bring to room temperature before serving. If desired, slightly warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
What to Serve with Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that enhance the flavors of your cozy creation.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the spiced cake and adds a refreshing chill. It’s a comforting classic that marries beautifully with each warm bite.
Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai resonate perfectly with the cinnamon, creating a soothing drink that brings out the cake’s cozy flavors. Sip it while enjoying your slice for a snug afternoon.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce adds a rich, buttery contrast that pairs exceptionally well with the moist cake. The sweetness elevates the dessert experience to heavenly heights.
Coffee: A freshly brewed cup of coffee cuts through the sweetness and enhances the cake’s flavors, making it the ideal companion for a hearty slice. The bitterness balances beautifully.
Roasted Apples: Adding a side of warm roasted apples creates a deliciously fruity element that echoes the applesauce in the cake. Plus, it adds a delightful texture contrast!
Spiced Nuts: A handful of spiced nuts serves as a crunchy contrast. Their savory flavor complements the sweetness, highlighting the cake’s cozy essence.
Pumpkin Pie: For a seasonal dessert table, pumpkin pie can be a festive companion, offering a balance of textures with its smooth filling. Together, they embody the flavors of fall!
Cinnamon Hot Chocolate: This decadent drink pairs perfectly with the warm spices of the cake. The rich chocolate and warming spices provide the ultimate cozy treat experience.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits offers a bright, tangy contrast, cleansing the palate and complementing the cake’s richness while adding a vibrant burst of color.
Expert Tips for Applesauce Cake
Use Unsweetened Applesauce: For a balanced sweetness, opt for unsweetened applesauce. This keeps the cake moist without overpowering flavors.
Cool Before Frosting: Always allow your cake to cool completely before applying the frosting. Otherwise, your cream cheese frosting may melt and slide off.
Check Your Baking Powder: Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for the best rise. Old leavening agents can lead to a dense cake.
Adjust Cinnamon to Taste: Feel free to modify the cinnamon amount based on your preference for spice. Start with less, and add more if desired.
Add Nuts for Crunch: Enhance texture by mixing in chopped walnuts or pecans. This adds a delightful crunch and complements the moistness of the cake.
Wrap for Freshness: Store your layered Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting in an airtight container to maintain moisture for up to 4 days.
Applesauce Cake Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own—there’s a world of flavors waiting to be explored!
- Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the moist cake.
- Banana Twist: Substitute a portion of the applesauce for mashed bananas to create a unique, sweet twist and a different flavor profile.
- Fruit Medley: Mix in raisins or fresh apple chunks for extra texture and bursts of flavor with every bite.
- Spice it Up: Enhance the cake’s flavor with a dash of nutmeg or ginger alongside the cinnamon for an exquisite spiced cake.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. This cake easily adapts!
- Dairy-Free: Replace the cream cheese in the frosting with a vegan cream cheese alternative or coconut cream for a delicious dairy-free version.
- More Sweetness: Swap granulated sugar for maple syrup to give your cake a deeper, caramel-like sweetness. Just reduce liquid in the recipe slightly to account for the syrup.
- Chocolate Drizzle: After frosting, drizzle melted chocolate over the top for added richness. It makes every slice a bit more decadent!
Exploring these variations can transform your Applesauce Cake into something uniquely yours, perfect for any occasion! If you’re looking for even more delicious cream cheese experiences, don’t forget to check out Cinnamon Sugar Cream Muffins for a delightful treat.
Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs
What type of apples are best for making applesauce?
Absolutely! For making applesauce, I recommend using sweet and tart varieties like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji apples. These apples provide a perfect balance of flavor and sweetness, ensuring that your applesauce has a rich, fruity taste. Just peel, core, and chop them before cooking to create a delicious homemade applesauce for your cake!
How should I store leftovers of the Applesauce Cake?
Once your delightful Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is ready, it’s best to store it properly to maintain its freshness. If the cake is frosted, cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay delicious for up to 4 days. For an unfrosted version, you can store it at room temperature, covered, for the same duration!
Can I freeze the Applesauce Cake? If so, how?
Certainly! To freeze your unfrosted Applesauce Cake, follow these easy steps: First, let the cake cool completely. Next, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Label it with the date and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and bring it to room temperature before frosting!
What should I do if my cake is too dense or doesn’t rise?
Very good question! If you find your Applesauce Cake is dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter or using stale baking powder or baking soda. Always make sure to mix until just combined to keep the batter light and airy. Also, double-check that your leavening agents are fresh! They help the cake rise beautifully, ensuring a fluffy texture.
Is this Applesauce Cake safe for my dogs?
While this moist cake is a delightful treat for humans, it contains ingredients like sugar and cream cheese that are not ideal for dogs. Additionally, pet-safe treats are better options for them. Always consult your vet before sharing human food with your furry friends to ensure their safety and well-being!
Cozy Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13-inch baking pan by greasing it lightly.
- Combine the dry ingredients for the cake: all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt in a mixing bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: unsweetened applesauce, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually stir the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients until just combined.
- Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth to prepare the frosting.
- Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the cooled cake using a spatula.
- Slice the cake into squares and serve.