Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

When I think of warm, cozy afternoons filled with laughter and the sweet scent of baking, my mind immediately jumps to my beloved Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting. This cake has been a staple in our home for years, and I can still picture my kids’ faces lighting up as they walked into the kitchen, their eyes wide with anticipation. There’s something magical about the way the spices mingle with the applesauce, creating a moist, flavorful treat that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

This cake is perfect for any occasion, but it especially shines in the fall when the leaves are changing, and we’re all craving those comforting flavors. It’s a delightful way to celebrate family gatherings, birthdays, or even just a Wednesday afternoon when you need a little pick-me-up. Trust me, once you try this Applesauce Cake, you’ll understand why it’s a cherished recipe in our family!

Why You’ll Love "Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting"

• Quick and easy to prepare — you can whip it up in just under an hour!
• Moist and flavorful cake thanks to the applesauce, making it a family favorite.
• Minimal ingredients, so you likely have everything you need on hand.
• Perfect for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to festive gatherings.
• Freezer-friendly; you can easily store leftovers for a sweet treat later.
• The creamy cinnamon frosting adds a delightful touch that everyone will love!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (I love using grass-fed butter for its rich flavor!)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed (dark brown sugar gives a deeper flavor!)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (pure vanilla makes all the difference!)
• 1 ½ cups unsweetened applesauce (try to use homemade if you can—it’s so worth it!)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened (full-fat cream cheese gives the best texture for frosting)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons milk (optional, to achieve your desired frosting consistency)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature for baking the cake to golden perfection!

Make the Batter

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This will help combine all those lovely spices!
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. You want it to be light and fluffy, so don’t rush this step!
3. Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, mixing well after each addition. You want everything to be well blended and happy.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract and then the applesauce. This is where the magic happens—your batter is going to be so moist!
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Don’t overmix; it’s okay if a few lumps remain!

Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into a greased 9x13 inch cake pan, spreading it evenly.
2. Pop that beauty into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, it’s ready!

Cool the Cake

1. Once baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
2. After that, carefully transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely. Be patient—this will make frosting a breeze!

Prepare the Frosting

1. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. This is where the frosting starts to come alive!
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined and fluffy.
3. If the frosting is too thick for your liking, add 1-2 tablespoons of milk a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Frost the Cake

1. Once the cake is completely cool, use a spatula to generously spread the creamy cinnamon frosting over the top.
2. Feel free to get creative with the frosting—swirls, peaks, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for that extra flair!
3. Slice, serve, and watch everyone’s faces light up as they dig into this delicious cake!

Variations

• Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
• Add a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
• For a fall twist, mix in some chopped fresh cranberries or pears.
• Make it dairy-free by using coconut cream and vegan butter in the frosting!
• Add a splash of caramel sauce to the batter for an extra layer of flavor.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Serve this delicious Applesauce Cake slightly warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat. Don’t forget to garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon for that cozy touch!

Storage

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, it freezes well for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before freezing!

Helpful Notes

• If you don’t have unsweetened applesauce, you can use sweetened, but reduce the sugar slightly.
• Try adding a teaspoon of orange zest for a bright flavor boost.
• For a nut-free version, just skip the add-ins like nuts or raisins.
• If you prefer a lighter frosting, use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese.
• This cake is a great base for layering with different frostings or fillings!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze the Applesauce Cake?

Yes, you can absolutely freeze the Applesauce Cake! Just make sure it’s completely cooled, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

How can I substitute ingredients?

You can easily substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand! For example, if you’re out of all-purpose flour, you can use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend. Unsweetened applesauce can be swapped with mashed bananas or pumpkin puree for a different twist. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor and texture!

What can I add for extra flavor?

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a teaspoon of orange zest or a splash of almond extract. You can also fold in a cup of raisins or chopped nuts for added texture. If you want a spiced kick, try mixing in some chopped fresh ginger or a dash of cardamom!

How long does the cake last?

The Applesauce Cake will last in the refrigerator for about 5 days when stored in an airtight container. If you freeze it, it can maintain its deliciousness for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing to preserve its moisture!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to make this Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting as I am to share it with you! It’s truly a recipe that brings people together, filling your home with warm scents and happy memories. I encourage you to gather your loved ones and dive into this delightful baking adventure. Trust me, this cake will quickly become a favorite in your household, just like it has in mine. So, roll up your sleeves, get that apron on, and let’s create something special together. Enjoy every bite, and remember, cooking is all about the joy it brings!

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