Applesauce Cake – The Best Cozy Dessert You’ll Crave

Name: Irresistible Applesauce Cake You’ll Love
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground ginger; 1 stick unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 1 1/2 cups applesauce; 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped; 5 oz cream cheese, softened; 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup confectioners’ sugar; 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Applesauce Cake is one of those feel-good, old-fashioned desserts that brings comfort with every bite. With its moist crumb, warm spices, and that dreamy cinnamon cream cheese frosting, it’s a cake that makes everyone ask for seconds. It’s simple to make, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor—everything we love in a timeless recipe.

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Hello! I’m Anna, the heart behind HomeasyRecipes, a cozy corner dedicated to celebrating timeless recipes and the warmth of shared meals. Inspired by my beloved grandmother, Mary, this site is a tribute to her wisdom, love, and the unforgettable flavors she brought to our family table.

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Table of Contents

Why Applesauce Cake Is the Cozy Classic You Didn’t Know You Needed

A Moist, Flavor-Packed Classic That’s Hard to Beat

Applesauce Cake has deep roots in traditional home baking. It was especially popular during the Great Depression, when families found creative ways to bake without expensive ingredients. Applesauce kept cakes moist and flavorful, no butter or oil needed in some versions. Today, it’s just as relevant—with the bonus of being comforting, easy, and incredibly delicious.

Discover great ideas like this Applesauce Bread – Moist, Sweet, and Simply Delicious, a kindred recipe you’ll adore.

It’s All About That Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

One of the best things about this cake? That thick, rich, cinnamon-kissed cream cheese frosting. It complements the soft, warmly spiced cake perfectly. You get tang, warmth, sweetness, and texture all in one glorious bite.

Applesauce Cake Ingredients – What You’ll Need

Pantry Staples That Turn Into Magic

To make this Applesauce Cake with cinnamon cream cheese frosting, you’ll need basic baking ingredients that come together to create a moist, richly spiced dessert. This isn’t just any spice cake—it’s a celebration of texture and flavor, thanks to the applesauce and the creamy cinnamon topping.

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
½ tsp baking soda
2 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground ginger
1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1½ cups applesauce
½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional but recommended for crunch)

Don’t miss our Cinnamon Apple Cake if you’re a fan of spiced fruity bakes!

For the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

5 oz cream cheese, softened
3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
¼ tsp vanilla extract
1 cup confectioners’ sugar
½ tsp ground cinnamon

Ingredients for applesauce cake including flour, eggs, and cinnamon — Everything you need to make Applesauce Cake from scratch

Instructions – How to Bake Applesauce Cake Like a Pro

Step-by-Step Process for a Foolproof Finish

This cake comes together quickly, and following these simple steps ensures every slice turns out moist, rich, and full of cozy cinnamon flavor.

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the rack in the middle of the oven. Grease an 8- or 9-inch square baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and ground ginger. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and vanilla with an electric mixer on medium speed until pale and fluffy—about 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs & Applesauce

Beat in the eggs, one at a time. Then add the applesauce and continue mixing until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Wet & Dry

Reduce the mixer speed to low. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Stir in the chopped nuts, if using.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until the top is golden-brown and a wooden pick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Want more cozy bakes? Try this Applesauce Bread – Moist, Sweet, and Simply Delicious.

Step 7: Let It Cool

Cool the cake in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting. This ensures the frosting won’t melt.

Frosting Instructions: Cinnamon Cream Cheese Magic

Step 8: Mix the Frosting

In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla. Beat with a mixer until smooth and creamy. Add a touch of milk if it needs loosening.

Step 9: Frost and Serve

Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Cut into slices, decorate with chopped pecans if desired, and serve.

Spreading cinnamon cream cheese frosting on applesauce cake — Frosting the cooled Applesauce Cake with cinnamon cream cheese goodness

Expert Tips to Elevate Your Applesauce Cake

Don’t Overmix Your Batter

Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just incorporated. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour and can make your cake dense instead of tender and moist.

Use Unsweetened Applesauce for Better Flavor Control

To avoid an overly sweet cake, opt for unsweetened applesauce. This lets the natural fruit flavor shine while balancing beautifully with the brown sugar and frosting.

Add Texture with Nuts or Raisins

For a bit of crunch or chew, fold in chopped walnuts, pecans, or golden raisins. Toast the nuts beforehand to bring out their natural oils and deepen the flavor.

Bake Until It Springs Back

While a toothpick test works well, another great trick: lightly press the center of the cake—if it springs back, it’s done. If it sinks or feels soft, give it a few more minutes.

Cool Completely Before Frosting

Patience pays off. Spreading cream cheese frosting on a warm cake will melt it. Let the cake cool completely to get that smooth, dreamy layer of frosting to stick properly.

Try a Dusting of Cinnamon on Top

After frosting, lightly sprinkle cinnamon over the top for a rustic finish and extra warmth. It gives visual appeal and a subtle boost of flavor.

Looking for a cozy twist? Check out our Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting for another family favorite

How should I store the cake?

If your kitchen is cool, the cake can sit at room temperature for up to 2 days, lightly covered. For longer freshness or if your kitchen is warm, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor. You can also freeze individual slices (unfrosted or frosted) for up to 2 months.

Can I make buttercream frosting instead?

Yes! If you prefer a classic buttercream, swap out the cream cheese and cinnamon for an easy vanilla version. Just beat ½ cup softened butter with 1½ to 2 cups powdered sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and a splash of milk until light and fluffy. It’s sweeter than cream cheese frosting, but still pairs well with the spiced cake.

Can I make this into cupcakes instead?

Absolutely. Simply divide the batter evenly into a lined cupcake pan, filling each cup about ⅔ full. Bake at 350°F for about 18–22 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick. You’ll get roughly 16–18 cupcakes from this recipe. Let them cool completely before frosting.

How can I tell when my cake is done?

The best way to check is the toothpick test. Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake—if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs (not wet batter), it’s done. You can also gently press the center of the cake. If it springs back, it’s ready. The edges will also slightly pull away from the pan when fully baked.

Flavor Variations and Customization Ideas

Add a Caramel Drizzle

Want to take this Applesauce Cake over the top? A warm salted caramel drizzle adds an indulgent, buttery finish that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon and cream cheese. Drizzle it just before serving for that wow factor.

Mix Up the Spices

While cinnamon and ginger are classics, you can add depth with:

Nutmeg (¼ tsp)
Allspice (a pinch)
Clove (sparingly – it’s strong!)

Create your own custom spice blend to suit the season or your preference.

Swap the Nuts

If you’re not a fan of walnuts or pecans, try:

Toasted almonds
Chopped hazelnuts
Sunflower seeds (for a nut-free option)

Or skip them altogether if you prefer a smoother bite.

Go Fruity

Fold in ½ cup of chopped apples, golden raisins, or dried cranberries for added texture and natural sweetness. Diced pears work well too, especially in fall.

Make It Vegan

It’s easy to adapt this recipe for plant-based diets:

Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water per egg)
Use vegan butter and dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting

The applesauce already acts as a natural egg substitute and keeps things moist.

Try It as a Layer Cake

Double the recipe and bake in two 9-inch round cake pans for a show-stopping layer cake. Stack with extra frosting in between and on top. Chill before slicing for clean, bakery-style layers.

Why We Love Applesauce in Baking

Moisture Without the Guilt

One of the biggest reasons applesauce is a baker’s best friend? It adds incredible moisture without relying on lots of butter or oil. The natural pectin in apples creates a soft, rich crumb that holds together beautifully. This makes applesauce a popular go-to for health-conscious baking without compromising flavor.

A Natural Sweetener

Unsweetened applesauce brings a subtle, fruity sweetness that enhances spices like cinnamon and nutmeg without overpowering the cake. It blends seamlessly with brown sugar, helping create that warm, deep flavor you crave in a spice cake.

A Secret Weapon for Egg-Free Baking

For anyone baking with allergies or aiming for plant-based recipes, applesauce makes a great egg substitute. About ¼ cup of applesauce can replace one egg in most baking recipes. In our cake, even with eggs included, it adds moisture and a soft, tender crumb.

Flavor That Enhances, Not Overpowers

Unlike banana, which can dominate a cake’s flavor, applesauce is neutral yet complementary. It lifts other ingredients like cinnamon, ginger, and cream cheese without stealing the spotlight—making it ideal for layered flavors and frostings.

Pairs Beautifully with Spices and Dairy

Applesauce naturally harmonizes with warming spices and creamy dairy ingredients like cream cheese and butter. That’s why it works so well in this cake—it bridges the spice and the frosting into one cohesive, flavorful bite.

Serving Suggestions & Pairing Ideas

Serve It Warm or Chilled—Both Work Beautifully

This Applesauce Cake is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving temperature. Want to cozy up on a chilly evening? Warm it slightly in the microwave and enjoy with a mug of tea or mulled cider. Prefer a cool, creamy finish? Chill the cake and let that cinnamon cream cheese frosting firm up into a rich, velvety layer.

Perfect for Brunch, Dessert, or Coffee Breaks

This cake fits into almost any moment. Here are a few great occasions to serve it:

Holiday brunches – Add fruit on the side or a scoop of yogurt
Afternoon coffee or tea time – The warm spices complement a dark roast or chai
Dinner party dessert – Slice it beautifully and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream
Midweek treat – Because sometimes you just need cake on a Tuesday

Beverage Pairings That Work

Pair this cake with drinks that balance or highlight its flavors:

Occasion	Beverage Recommendation
Cozy evenings	Chai latte, spiced tea, or hot cider
Brunch	Cold brew coffee or almond milk latte
Dessert pairing	Creamy cappuccino or vanilla milkshake
Holiday tables	Eggnog or mulled wine

Add a Scoop of Something Cool

Want to turn this into a next-level dessert? Pair it with:

Vanilla ice cream
Cinnamon or caramel gelato
A spoonful of lightly sweetened whipped cream

The contrast between cold and the rich spice of the cake is pure comfort.

Applesauce cake slice served with tea on a white plate — Serve Applesauce Cake with tea for the perfect cozy treat

Dress It Up or Keep It Rustic

You can easily dress this cake up with piped frosting, toasted nuts, or dried apple slices—or keep it rustic by just spreading frosting and dusting with cinnamon.

Why This Applesauce Cake Is Always a Hit

Comfort in Every Bite

There’s a reason this Applesauce Cake keeps showing up on family tables year after year—it’s warm, familiar, and downright comforting. The gentle spice, the creaminess of the frosting, and the soft texture all combine into one unforgettable dessert.

Easy to Make, Even Easier to Love

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a total beginner, this recipe is incredibly forgiving. The batter comes together in one bowl, the ingredients are all easy to find, and it bakes into a tender, flavorful cake every single time.

A Crowd-Pleaser with Endless Flexibility

You can make it with or without nuts, bake it in different pans, swap out the frosting, or even turn it into cupcakes. It’s adaptable, budget-friendly, and perfect for any season—especially fall and winter when warm spices feel just right.

From Our Kitchen to Yours

This cake is more than a recipe—it’s a piece of tradition. It’s about slowing down, baking something with care, and sharing a slice of joy with the people you love. And if you’re baking solo? Trust us: this one’s worth savoring with your favorite cup of coffee.

Looking for another old-school winner? Don’t miss our Applesauce Bread – Moist, Sweet, and Simply Delicious

Final Thought

With its moist crumb, comforting flavor, and irresistible frosting, this Applesauce Cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s a memory in the making.

Conclusion: A Classic Worth Repeating

There’s something timeless about Applesauce Cake. Maybe it’s the way the warm spices linger with every bite, or how the cinnamon cream cheese frosting adds just the right amount of tangy richness. Or maybe it’s the fact that this cake doesn’t ask for anything fancy—just a few simple ingredients, a little love, and a warm oven.

Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, gifting a friend, or simply treating yourself, this cake delivers every time. It’s flexible, nostalgic, budget-friendly, and most importantly—delicious. It’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again, not just because it’s easy, but because it feels like home.

So go ahead. Preheat the oven. Make it your own. And don’t forget to share a slice with someone you love.

Want more comfort food classics? Try our Cinnamon Apple Cake or discover the rich flavors of our Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting.

Thanks for baking with us at HomeasyRecipes.com—where tradition meets taste.