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Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

5.2 from 10 reviews

This moist and flavorful Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is a deliciously spiced dessert perfect for any occasion. Made with natural sweeteners and aromatic spices, this cake offers a tender crumb and a creamy, luscious frosting that adds a rich finish. It’s an inviting treat that balances sweetness and spice with a comforting texture that will delight family and friends.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1 1/2 cups brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Frosting Ingredients

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cake Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking. In a large mixing bowl, combine the unsweetened applesauce, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until fully incorporated, making sure not to overmix to maintain a tender texture.
  2. Bake the Cake: Pour the prepared batter evenly into the greased baking pan. Place it in the preheated oven, and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan to ensure the frosting adheres properly.
  3. Make the Frosting: While the cake cools, prepare the cinnamon cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar while continuing to beat, then mix in the ground cinnamon until the frosting is fluffy and well combined.
  4. Frost the Cake: Once the cake is fully cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top with a spatula. For an extra touch of flavor and presentation, sprinkle additional ground cinnamon or chopped walnuts on top if desired.
  5. Serve: Slice the cake into squares and serve either at room temperature or slightly chilled, depending on your preference. This cake is perfect for dessert, afternoon tea, or any time you want a cozy, spiced treat.

Notes

  • Ensure the cake is completely cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
  • You can add chopped walnuts or raisins to the batter for extra texture.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
  • Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Bring refrigerated cake to room temperature before serving for best texture and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Applesauce cake, cinnamon cream cheese frosting, spiced cake, moist apple cake, autumn dessert, easy cake recipe