Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Why Make This Recipe

Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful dessert that combines the warm flavors of spices with the sweetness of applesauce. It’s a moist, flavorful cake that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a potluck, or just want a comforting treat at home. The cream cheese frosting adds a rich, creamy touch that complements the cake beautifully. Plus, it’s easy to make, which is great for bakers of all skill levels!

How to Make Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1 cup applesauce
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 8 oz cream cheese
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
  3. In another bowl, mix the sugar, oil, eggs, applesauce, and vanilla until smooth.
  4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
  5. Pour the batter into a greased cake pan and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  6. For the frosting, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
  7. Add the powdered sugar and cinnamon, mixing until fully combined.
  8. Once the cake is cooled, frost it with the cinnamon cream cheese frosting.

How to Serve Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Serve slices of the applesauce cake on a plate, topped with a generous amount of cinnamon cream cheese frosting. This cake pairs well with a cup of tea or coffee and is a delightful treat for guests. You can also add a sprinkle of cinnamon or some chopped nuts on top for extra flavor and presentation.

How to Store Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

To keep your applesauce cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the unfrosted cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before placing it in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving, and then add the frosting.

Tips to Make Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

  • Make sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth frosting.
  • If you want a spicier cake, feel free to add a bit more cinnamon or other spices to the batter.
  • For a fun twist, you can mix in some chopped walnuts or raisins into the batter for added texture.

Variation

You can easily customize this cake by adding different types of fruit puree, like pumpkin or mashed bananas, instead of applesauce for a unique flavor. Additionally, you can switch the cream cheese frosting for a simple glaze or whipped cream if you prefer something lighter.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
A: Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that works for baking.

Q: Can I freeze the cake?
A: Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake. Just wrap it well and store it in the freezer. Thaw it in the refrigerator before frosting.

Q: How do I know when the cake is done?
A: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the cake is done baking. If there is still batter on the toothpick, bake for a few more minutes and check again.