If you love the cozy flavors of fall, this Apple Sauce Spice Cake is the perfect treat! Infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, this cake delivers the comforting taste of homemade apple pie in a soft and moist cake. The applesauce not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the cake light and fluffy, making it a healthier alternative to traditional spice cakes.
Whether you serve it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with rich cream cheese frosting, this cake is guaranteed to become a favorite in your home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Moist and flavorful – Applesauce adds incredible softness and a natural sweetness.
✔ Easy to make – Simple pantry ingredients and a one-bowl batter.
✔ Perfectly spiced – A cozy blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
✔ Healthier option – Less oil and sugar than traditional cakes.
✔ Customizable – Add nuts, apples, or even turn it into a layer cake!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cake
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ¼ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup buttermilk (or ½ cup milk + 1 tsp vinegar as a substitute)
Optional Topping: Cream Cheese Frosting
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×9-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Baking soda
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves
- This ensures an even distribution of the spices and leavening agents.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Granulated sugar & brown sugar
- Applesauce
- Vegetable oil
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix!
- Stir in the buttermilk until the batter is smooth and well blended.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional)
- In a mixing bowl, beat together:
- Softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Beat until light and fluffy.
- Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake, or serve it on the side.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
- Slice and serve plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with cream cheese frosting.
- Pairs beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee!
Why This Recipe Works
✨ Applesauce Magic – Adds moisture and natural sweetness, reducing the need for extra oil or sugar.
✨ Spice Harmony – A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves creates a warm, comforting flavor.
✨ Simple Ingredients – Everyday pantry staples come together to create a delicious treat.
✨ Perfect Texture – The combination of buttermilk and applesauce keeps the cake soft and tender.
Variations to Try
✅ Add Nuts – Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delicious crunch.
✅ Gluten-Free Option – Substitute the flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
✅ Vegan Version – Use flax eggs, plant-based butter, and dairy-free cream cheese.
✅ Extra Apple Flavor – Stir in finely diced apples or drizzle caramel sauce over the cake.
✅ Layer Cake – Double the recipe and bake in round pans for a stacked spice cake masterpiece.
Expert Tips for Success
✔ Use Room Temperature Ingredients – This helps everything blend smoothly.
✔ Don’t Overmix the Batter – Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Stir just until combined.
✔ Check for Doneness – Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
✔ Store Properly – Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! This cake stays moist for days. Bake it a day in advance and store it covered at room temperature.
2. How do I make homemade buttermilk?
Mix ½ cup milk with 1 teaspoon vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
3. Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
4. Can I make muffins instead of a cake?
Yes! Divide the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 18–22 minutes.
5. What’s the best substitute for eggs?
For a vegan version, use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg).
Final Thoughts
This Apple Sauce Spice Cake is moist, flavorful, and full of warm spices, making it a perfect dessert for fall or any time you crave a cozy treat. Whether you enjoy it plain, frosted, or with a dusting of powdered sugar, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
Try it today and let the warm spices and tender crumb bring comfort to your home.