How long does it take to make Sweet and Spiced Applesauce Cake?

Based on our recipe instructions, the total time to make the Sweet and Spiced Applesauce Cake, including preparation and baking, is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. This includes about 10-15 minutes of preparation, 30-35 minutes of baking, and cooling time before frosting.

What ingredients do I need for Sweet and Spiced Applesauce Cake?

You'll need the following ingredients: all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, ground allspice, unsweetened applesauce, large eggs, neutral-flavored oil, granulated sugar, packed light brown sugar, vanilla extract, salted butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk or cream, and optional toasted pecans.

Can I use a glass baking dish instead of a metal one?

Yes, you can use a glass baking dish instead of a metal one. Just remember to lower the oven temperature to 325 degrees F when using a glass dish to ensure even baking and prevent the cake from browning too quickly.

How should I know when the cake is fully baked?

To check if the cake is fully baked, lightly touch the top of the cake. It should bounce back slightly and feel springy. Additionally, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with just a few damp crumbs, indicating it's done.

What type of oil is best for this cake?

A neutral-flavored oil is best for this cake, such as canola oil, sunflower oil, or vegetable oil. These oils will not overpower the sweet and spiced flavors of the cake and will help keep it moist.

Is there a substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?

If you're looking for a substitute for cream cheese in the frosting, you can use a similar soft cheese like Neufchâtel or mascarpone. These alternatives will provide a creamy texture and slightly tangy flavor, similar to cream cheese.

Sweet and Spiced Applesauce Cake: Ultimate Fall Treat

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I’m Emma, and there’s something truly magical about a Sweet and Spiced Applesauce Cake that takes me back to my childhood days. I remember the aroma wafting from my grandmother’s kitchen, a warm, inviting scent that wrapped around you like a cozy blanket. Those moments were filled with laughter, love, and the simple joy of sharing something delicious.

At GrandMmaDelights, my mission is to capture that essence and share it with you. This Sweet and Spiced Applesauce Cake perfectly embodies the spirit of comfort and celebration. It’s a recipe that brings people together, turning a regular day into a special occasion.

Every time I bake this cake, I’m reminded of the joy that comes with home-cooked meals. The process of transforming simple ingredients into a masterpiece is nothing short of magical. With every slice of this Sweet and Spiced Applesauce Cake, I hope to spark that same delight in your home.

Let’s dive into this culinary adventure, where we’ll explore the fundamentals of baking, techniques, and tips to perfect this delightful Sweet and Spiced Applesauce Cake. Prepare to fill your kitchen with the comforting aroma of cinnamon and spices, and create memories that’ll last a lifetime.

Sweet and Spiced Applesauce Cake

Author: Emma
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6–8 servings 1x

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Description

Discover the perfect Sweet and Spiced Applesauce Cake recipe! Learn how to create this moist, flavorful treat that combines the warmth of spices with apple sweetness.

Ingredients

Scale

2 ½ cups (355 g) all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon (15 ml) ground cinnamon
2 teaspoon (10 ml) s baking powder
1 teaspoon (5 ml) baking soda
1 teaspoon (5 ml) salt
1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon (1 ml) ground allspice
2 cups (500 g) unsweetened applesauce
2 large (100 g) eggs
¾ cup (146 g) neutral-flavored oil
⅔ cup (142 g) granulated sugar
⅔ cup (142 g) packed light brown sugar
1 tablespoon (15 ml) vanilla extract
6 tablespoon s (77 g) salted butter
3 ounce s (85 g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature

3 cups (342 g) powdered sugar
2 teaspoon (10 ml) s vanilla extract
2 to 3 tablespoon (38 ml) s milk or cream
1 cup (120 g) toasted pecans, optional

Instructions

Heat your oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a 9X13-inch metal baking dish with a light layer of oil and set it aside. (For a glass dish, lower the oven temperature to 325 degrees F.)
To make the cake, combine the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice in a large mixing bowl.

In a separate bowl, blend the applesauce, eggs, oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
Pour the liquid mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir gently until just incorporated, ensuring no dry spots remain. Avoid overmixing.
Evenly pour the batter into the prepared dish and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the top lightly bounces back when touched and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few damp crumbs.

Allow the cake to cool entirely in the pan.
For the frosting, melt the butter in a light-colored skillet over medium heat. It will begin to foam and sizzle. Stir occasionally with a silicone spatula to prevent burning, and watch for the butter solids to turn a golden brown and give off a nutty aroma. Once golden brown, remove from heat and transfer the butter to a medium bowl to cool.
Let the butter sit until it reaches room temperature and has a thick consistency, about 20-30 minutes.
Using an electric hand mixer (or a stand mixer with a paddle attachment), combine the softened cream cheese with the cooled butter until fully mixed. It may appear lumpy, which is normal.

Add one cup of powdered sugar and mix until mostly blended.
Add the vanilla and two tablespoons of milk or cream and mix again.
Gradually incorporate the remaining powdered sugar, mixing on medium-low speed, and scrape down the bowl’s sides as needed. Adjust the texture with more milk or cream if necessary. Mix for 1 to 2 minutes until the frosting is thick and creamy.

Distribute the frosting evenly over the cooled cake. If desired, sprinkle with toasted pecans. Cut into squares and serve, either at room temperature or chilled.

Notes

Ensure a smooth blend of applesauce, eggs, oil, sugars, and vanilla to avoid lumps in the batternToast pecans to boost flavor and fold some into the batter for texturenClosely watch as you brown the butter for the frosting to prevent burning

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Française

Nutrition

Calories: 400
Fat: 12g
Protein: 20g

Keywords: all-purpose flour cake, applesauce cake recipe, cinnamon spice cake, cream cheese frosting, toasted pecans topping, nutmeg spiced cake

Sweet and Spiced Applesauce Cake Basics

Fundamentals

The Sweet and Spiced Applesauce Cake is a timeless classic that marries the subtle sweetness of applesauce with a warm blend of spices. This cake is all about balance, where the moist texture from the applesauce meets the aromatic spices, creating a symphony of flavors.

To achieve this, the right combination of spices is crucial. Ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice work together to enhance the cake’s flavor profile, ensuring each bite is a delightful experience. The use of unsweetened applesauce not only adds moisture but also allows these spices to shine.

Preparation/Setup

Before diving into the preparation, it’s essential to set the stage for success. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F if you’re using a metal baking dish. For glass dishes, lower the temperature to 325 degrees F. Coat your 9X13-inch baking dish with a light layer of oil to prevent sticking.

Gather your ingredients: all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground ginger, nutmeg, allspice, unsweetened applesauce, eggs, neutral-flavored oil, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Having everything ready and measured ensures a smooth and enjoyable baking experience.

Crafting the Perfect Sweet and Spiced Cake

Technique

The technique for creating a perfect Sweet and Spiced Applesauce Cake lies in the careful mixing of ingredients. Start by combining the dry ingredients—flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice—in a large mixing bowl. This ensures that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the cake.

In a separate bowl, blend the applesauce, eggs, oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla until smooth. This liquid mixture will be the heart of your cake, where the applesauce provides moisture and the sugars add sweetness.

Tips and Tricks

When incorporating the liquid mixture into the dry ingredients, gently stir until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so aim for a batter that is smooth but not overworked. Pour the batter into your prepared dish, ensuring an even distribution for a uniform bake.

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, checking for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few damp crumbs, your cake is ready. Allow it to cool entirely in the pan before frosting, ensuring the cake sets properly.

Mastering the Sweet and Spiced Applesauce Cake

Perfecting Results

To elevate your Sweet and Spiced Applesauce Cake, the frosting plays a pivotal role. The cinnamon cream cheese frosting not only complements the spices but also adds a creamy richness. Begin by melting salted butter until it turns golden brown, releasing a nutty aroma. This is the butter you’ll use for the frosting.

Combine the cooled browned butter with softened cream cheese, mixing until blended. It’s normal for the mixture to appear lumpy initially. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk or cream, mixing until you achieve a thick, creamy consistency.

Troubleshooting and Variations

If your frosting is too thick, add a bit more milk or cream until you reach your desired texture. For a nutty twist, sprinkle toasted pecans over the frosted cake. This adds a delightful crunch and complements the cake’s flavor profile.

For those who prefer a slightly different spice profile, consider adding a touch more ginger or nutmeg. These small adjustments can personalize the cake to your taste, making it uniquely yours.

Serving and Storing Your Sweet and Spiced Creation

Serving and Presentation

Once your Sweet and Spiced Applesauce Cake is frosted and ready, it’s time for the grand reveal. Cut into squares for a classic presentation, or get creative with different shapes for a personalized touch. The cake can be served at room temperature or chilled, each option offering a unique taste experience.

For an added flair, a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream can enhance the visual appeal. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a celebratory event, this cake is sure to impress.

Pairings and Storage

This cake pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of tea or coffee, enhancing the spice notes and providing a comforting pairing. When storing, keep the cake in an airtight container to maintain its moist texture. It can be refrigerated for up to a week, or frozen for longer shelf life.

For more delightful recipes, explore our collection and discover new favorites. From cozy meals to delectable desserts, there’s something for every occasion.

Conclusion

The Sweet and Spiced Applesauce Cake is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. Its delightful combination of spices and creamy frosting makes it a standout dessert for any occasion.

By mastering the basics and embracing the techniques shared, you can confidently create this cake with ease. Its versatility in serving and storing adds to its charm, making it a staple in your dessert repertoire.

Whether shared with family, friends, or enjoyed quietly with a good book, this cake brings warmth and joy to any moment. Dive into the world of homemade treats and let your kitchen be filled with the sweet aroma of success.