Moist Old-Fashioned Applesauce Cake

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There’s something timeless about a recipe that’s been passed down through generations, and this Moist Old-Fashioned Applesauce Cake is exactly that. It’s the kind of dessert that instantly transports you to cozy kitchens filled with the scent of cinnamon, nutmeg, and warm baked apples. I’ve been making this cake for years, and each time, it’s met with that quiet moment of awe when someone takes their first bite.

What makes this cake so special is its balance of warmth and sweetness. It’s dense but tender, rich with apple flavor, and perfectly complemented by a creamy brown sugar glaze and a generous sprinkle of toasted walnuts. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday gathering or just a quiet evening at home, it feels like a hug in cake form.

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Why You’ll Love This Moist Old-Fashioned Applesauce Cake

This cake isn’t just delicious—it’s easy, forgiving, and endlessly comforting. The applesauce adds incredible moisture without making the cake heavy. It’s the kind of dessert that tastes even better the next day, which makes it ideal for baking ahead. Plus, the spices give it that warm, nostalgic flavor everyone craves in cooler months. No fancy ingredients, no complicated steps—just a truly delightful old-school treat.

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What Kind of Applesauce Should I Use?

Unsweetened applesauce works best in this recipe. It allows you to control the sweetness and keeps the flavors balanced. If all you have is sweetened applesauce, you can still use it—just reduce the sugar slightly. Chunky or smooth? That’s up to you. I personally prefer smooth applesauce for a more even texture, but some people love the occasional bite of tender apple bits throughout.

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Options for Substitutions

• No eggs? Use flax eggs or applesauce itself as a substitute—it works because the cake is already so moist.
• Out of walnuts? Pecans or even chopped almonds can give a nice crunch.
• Gluten-free? Swap the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. This cake is quite forgiving.
• No brown sugar? You can use white sugar with a tablespoon of molasses stirred in.
• Want it dairy-free? Use plant-based butter or coconut oil for equally rich results.

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Ingredients for this Moist Old-Fashioned Applesauce Cake

• All-purpose flour: The base of the cake, it provides structure and holds all the delicious flavors together.
• Baking soda: This helps the cake rise and gives it a soft, tender crumb.
• Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves: Essential for that classic warm, spiced flavor that defines this cake.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and depth to the cake’s flavor.
• Brown sugar: Brings a caramel-like sweetness and contributes to the moist texture.
• Granulated sugar: Works with the brown sugar to sweeten the cake evenly.
• Eggs: Provide structure and stability while helping the cake rise.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a layer of warm, aromatic flavor.
• Unsweetened applesauce: The star ingredient that makes the cake incredibly moist and gives it a subtle apple flavor.
• Chopped walnuts: Optional, but they add a lovely crunch and complement the spices.

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Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This ensures your cake won’t stick and gives you clean slices.

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Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This helps distribute the leavening and spices evenly so every bite is flavorful.

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Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In another large bowl, beat the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is important for creating air in the batter, resulting in a lighter cake texture.

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Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each one is fully incorporated. Then add the vanilla extract. This builds a rich, smooth base before combining with the dry ingredients.

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Step 5: Stir in the Applesauce

Mix in the applesauce until fully combined. This is where the batter starts to look silky and luscious.

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Step 6: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix—stop as soon as you see no more streaks of flour. Fold in chopped walnuts if using.

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Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be golden and slightly springy to the touch.

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Step 8: Cool and Frost

Let the cake cool completely in the pan. Once cool, you can frost it with your favorite glaze—brown sugar glaze works beautifully here—and sprinkle more walnuts on top if desired.

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How Long to Prepare the Moist Old-Fashioned Applesauce Cake

Preparation Time

Preparing this cake takes about 20 minutes, from gathering and measuring ingredients to mixing the batter. Most of the effort goes into creaming the butter and sugars and making sure everything is well incorporated. You don’t need fancy equipment—a handheld mixer or even a whisk will do just fine.

Baking Time

Once in the oven, the cake takes approximately 35 to 40 minutes to bake at 350°F (175°C). The smell filling your kitchen while it bakes is an added bonus—warm, spiced, and completely irresistible.

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Tips for Perfect Moist Old-Fashioned Applesauce Cake

• Use room temperature ingredients: Butter, eggs, and applesauce mix more evenly when they’re not cold.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Once the dry ingredients are added, stir gently to avoid a dense cake.
• Let it cool completely before frosting: The glaze will melt and slide off if the cake is even slightly warm.
• Use fresh spices: Spices lose potency over time; using fresh ground cinnamon and nutmeg makes a huge difference.
• Line the pan for easy removal: Parchment paper makes it easier to lift and cut clean slices.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using sweetened applesauce without adjusting sugar: This can make the cake overly sweet.
• Skipping the cooling step: Frosting a warm cake leads to runny glaze.
• Overbaking: Check with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, it’s done. Overbaking dries out the cake.
• Forgetting to grease the pan: Even a non-stick pan benefits from a light coating of butter or spray.
• Under-mixing the spices: Unevenly mixed spices can lead to uneven flavor throughout the cake.

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What to Serve With Moist Old-Fashioned Applesauce Cake?

1. Hot Apple Cider

Perfectly echoes the spiced flavors of the cake for a cozy fall combo.

2. Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

The cold creaminess is an excellent contrast to the warm spices of the cake.

3. Chai Latte

Spiced and creamy, this drink brings out the cinnamon and nutmeg in the cake.

4. Whipped Cream with a Dash of Cinnamon

Light and airy, it adds a delicate topping if you skip the glaze.

5. Cheddar Cheese Slices

A classic old-school pairing with apples that might surprise you—it works beautifully.

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Storage Instructions

Room Temperature

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If it’s glazed, place parchment paper between slices to prevent sticking.

Refrigerator

If you want to extend freshness, refrigerate the cake. It will keep well for up to 7 days. Just make sure it’s in a sealed container so it doesn’t absorb other fridge odors.

Freezer

This cake freezes beautifully—wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a zip-top freezer bag. It will last up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Slice – Based on 12 Slices)

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 210mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 27g
• Protein: 4g

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of applesauce is best for baking?

Unsweetened, smooth applesauce is best. It keeps the sweetness balanced and ensures a uniform texture.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, it tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld together.

Is this cake good without frosting?

Absolutely. It’s moist and flavorful on its own, though a glaze adds a sweet finishing touch.

Can I make cupcakes with this batter?

Yes, just adjust the baking time to about 18–22 minutes. Great for portion control!

How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s ready.

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Conclusion

The Moist Old-Fashioned Applesauce Cake is one of those comforting, no-fail recipes that everyone should have in their collection. It’s nostalgic, warmly spiced, and incredibly satisfying, whether you enjoy it plain, glazed, or dressed up with ice cream. With simple ingredients and foolproof steps, it’s the kind of dessert that brings people together—and leaves them asking for seconds.

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