There’s something truly special about a homemade applesauce cake, especially when it’s made from a beloved family recipe. Grandma’s Applesauce Cake is moist, flavorful, and spiced just right, making it the perfect treat for any occasion. With a tender crumb, a hint of cinnamon, and a creamy frosting, this cake brings back warm memories of cozy kitchens and family gatherings.
In this article, we’ll take you through Grandma’s classic applesauce cake recipe, complete with simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions to recreate this nostalgic dessert in your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Applesauce Cake
- Moist & Tender – Applesauce makes this cake incredibly soft without needing excess butter or oil.
- Perfectly Spiced – A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves gives this cake a comforting, autumnal flavor.
- Easy to Make – No complicated steps—just mix, bake, and enjoy!
- Old-Fashioned Flavor – Just like Grandma used to make, this cake is a timeless classic.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 ½ cups granulated sugar
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1 teaspoon baking soda
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½ teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon cinnamon
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½ teaspoon nutmeg
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½ teaspoon ground cloves
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 ¾ cups unsweetened applesauce
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2 large eggs
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Frosting:
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
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3 cups powdered sugar
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2 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk)
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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¼ teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
1: Preheat the Oven
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
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In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
3: Prepare the Batter
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In another bowl, beat the butter, applesauce, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
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If using, fold in chopped walnuts for a little crunch.
4: Bake the Cake
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Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
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Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Let the cake cool completely before frosting.
5: Make the Frosting
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In a mixing bowl, beat butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and cream until smooth and fluffy.
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Spread the frosting over the cooled cake.
6: Serve & Enjoy
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Slice and serve with a hot cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate cozy treat!
Notes
- Applesauce Substitute – If you don’t have applesauce, you can use mashed bananas or pumpkin puree for a different twist.
- Make It Lighter – Reduce the sugar slightly for a less sweet version.
- Storage – Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
Storage & Freezing Instructions
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration: If you need to store it longer, keep it in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Freezing:
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Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
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Freeze for up to 3 months.
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To serve, thaw at room temperature for 2-3 hours or microwave for a few seconds.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
With Coffee or Tea – A warm slice pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or chai tea.
Topped with Whipped Cream – For extra indulgence, add a dollop of whipped cream.
With Caramel Sauce – Drizzle with warm caramel sauce for a bakery-style touch.
As a Holiday Dessert – Serve during Thanksgiving or Christmas as a nostalgic treat.
Conclusion
Grandma’s Applesauce Cake is a timeless dessert that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Whether you’re baking it for a family gathering, a holiday treat, or just because, this cake is sure to bring smiles all around.
So, grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and bake a little bit of nostalgia today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can bake the cake a day ahead and frost it just before serving. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop!
Can I Freeze Applesauce Cake?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Can I Use Sweetened Applesauce?
Yes, but you may want to slightly reduce the sugar in the recipe to balance the sweetness.
Can I Make This Cake Without Frosting?
Of course! It’s delicious on its own or dusted with powdered sugar for a lighter option.