Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Name: Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg; ¼ teaspoon ground cloves; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 cup unsweetened applesauce; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Isabella

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Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting a moist and spiced applesauce cake topped with a luscious cinnamon cream cheese frosting is the ultimate comforting dessert. It’s a treat that pairs perfectly with a warm cup of tea or coffee, bringing cozy flavors to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfectly Spiced: The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves creates a warm and inviting flavor.

Moist and Tender: Thanks to the unsweetened applesauce, this cake is incredibly soft and moist.

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a dessert anyone can prepare.

Crowd-Pleaser: The cinnamon cream cheese frosting elevates the cake to a new level, making it a favorite at any gathering.

Customizable: Adapt the recipe with your favorite nuts or a drizzle of caramel for added flair.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup granulated sugar

1 large egg

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup unsweetened applesauce

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

3 cups powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions

Prepare the Cake Batter: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8-inch baking dish. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.

Mix Wet Ingredients: Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, then stir in the applesauce and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine and Bake: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely before frosting.

Make the Frosting: Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter in a large mixing bowl until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon, beating until light and fluffy.

Frost and Serve: Once the cake has cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Slice and serve.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Servings: 9

Variations

Add Nuts: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture.

Raisins or Dried Fruit: Include 1/3 cup of raisins or chopped dried cranberries for a fruity twist.

Caramel Drizzle: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce over the frosting for extra decadence.

Spice Adjustment: If you prefer a bolder spice flavor, increase the amount of cinnamon or nutmeg.

Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute for a gluten-free version of this cake.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing: Wrap the unfrosted cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before frosting.

Reheating: Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving. For a warm slice, microwave for 10-15 seconds.

Related Recipes:

Moist, Fluffy Almond Flour Apple Cake (Gluten-Free)

FAQs

How do I ensure the cake stays moist?

Using unsweetened applesauce and not overbaking the cake are key. Check for doneness with a toothpick around the 30-minute mark.

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the frosting up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before spreading.

What can I substitute for unsweetened applesauce?

You can use mashed bananas or plain yogurt as substitutes, though it may alter the flavor slightly.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust the baking time to 40-45 minutes.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Substitute plant-based butter and cream cheese for the frosting, and use a dairy-free yogurt in place of the butter in the cake.

Conclusion

This applesauce cake with cinnamon cream cheese frosting is a delightful combination of warmth, sweetness, and creaminess. It’s simple to make and perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to festive celebrations. With its cozy flavors and soft texture, this cake is sure to become a go-to dessert in your recipe collection. Enjoy every bite.

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