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.
WELCOME TO homeasyrecipes.com – Where Tradition Meets Taste 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.
If you’re anything like me, you love a good recipe that actually works—the kind that doesn’t leave you drowning in dishes or hunting down ingredients you’ve never heard of. That’s what this site is all about. Real recipes, real life, no fluff. I started homeasyrecipes.com because I wanted to make home cooking feel less like a chore and more like something to look forward to. You’ll find everything here—from quick 20-minute meals to comfort food for those slow Sundays. Oh, and plenty of desserts, because… priorities.
I’m not a professional chef—I’m just a home cook who’s learned (sometimes the hard way) how to make tasty, doable meals that don’t break the bank or your spirit. So, whether you’re cooking for one, feeding a family, or just trying to figure out what to do with that leftover chicken, I’ve got you. Come hang out, try a few recipes, and let’s make cooking fun again. Welcome to homeasyrecipes.com. Let’s get baking.
Table of Contents
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.
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 with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is a sweet, tender, and incredibly moist homemade cake made with pantry staples and topped with a rich, spiced frosting.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F and place rack in the middle. Grease an 8 or 9 inch square baking dish.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and ginger.
In a large bowl, beat the butter, brown sugar, and vanilla with an electric mixer until pale and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
Beat in eggs one at a time, then add applesauce and mix until combined.
Reduce speed to low and mix in dry ingredients until just combined. Stir in chopped nuts.
Pour batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool the cake completely in the pan.
In a bowl, beat cream cheese, butter, confectioners’ sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla until smooth. Add a little milk if needed to make it spreadable.
Spread frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Decorate with pecans, slice, and serve.
Notes
Use unsweetened applesauce for best flavor balance.
Let the cake cool fully before applying frosting to prevent melting.
Can be made into cupcakes (bake for 18–22 minutes).
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
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.
ding" id="for-the-cake">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)
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.
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.
-image size-full"> 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.
ding" id="bake-until-it-springs-back">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.
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.
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 cust
om 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.
ding" id="make-it-vegan">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.
ding" id="why-we-love-applesauce-in-baking">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.
ding" id="flavor-that-enhances-not-overpowers">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.
ding" id="perfect-for-brunch-dessert-or-coffee-breaks">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.
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.
ding" id="easy-to-make-even-easier-to-love">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.
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.
