Dessert

Applesauce Cake Recipe

ByCharlotte Montgomery December 20, 2025December 20, 2025

Introduction

This Applesauce Cake is a moist, lightly spiced treat that’s perfect for using up applesauce in a delicious way. With a tender crumb and hints of cinnamon, it’s a cozy dessert that bakes quickly and tastes even better the next day.

Two square pieces of a soft, brown cake stacked on top of each other are placed on a white plate. Each cake piece has one thick layer of moist, crumbly texture with a light-brown color, topped with a thick, smooth, creamy white frosting layer that slightly drips down the sides. A thin white frosting layer can also be seen between the two cake layers. The background has a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/2 cup applesauce
1/2 cup water
3 tbsp oil or additional applesauce
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 tbsp white vinegar
1 1/2 cups flour (white, spelt, or oat)
1/3 cup sugar
3/4 tsp salt
3/4 tsp baking soda
3/4 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp cinnamon
Optional 1/4 tsp allspice
Optional 1/2 cup raisins, chopped walnuts, or shredded coconut

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8-inch baking pan to prepare for the batter.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the applesauce, water, oil (or additional applesauce), vanilla extract, and white vinegar until well combined.
Step 3: Add the flour, sugar, salt, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and if using, allspice to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined to form a smooth batter.
Step 4: Fold in any optional ingredients like raisins, chopped walnuts, or shredded coconut if desired.
Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top evenly.
Step 6: Bake on the center rack of the oven for about 18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Let the cake cool completely before frosting or serving. The flavors develop and the cake becomes even sweeter the next day.

Tips & Variations

For a richer texture, substitute oil with an equal amount of applesauce to reduce fat.
Add chopped nuts or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor.
Use spiced frosting like cream cheese with cinnamon for a perfect pairing.
Try oat flour for a gluten-free version, but note the texture will be slightly different.

Storage

Store the applesauce cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm slices in the microwave or oven until just heated through for a fresh-baked feel.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of applesauce snack cake pieces with two visible layers. The bottom layer is a light brown, moist cake with a textured surface. On top of this cake layer is a thick, creamy white frosting that spreads evenly. The frosting looks smooth with slight swirls and covers the entire top surface of each square piece. The pieces are neatly cut, showing the distinct separation between the brown cake and white frosting layers. The background and surface are white with a marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use homemade applesauce for this cake?

Yes, homemade applesauce works perfectly and adds a fresh flavor. Just ensure it’s unsweetened or adjust the sugar accordingly.

Is this cake vegan?

This recipe is naturally vegan as it contains no eggs or dairy. Just confirm your vanilla extract and any optional ingredients fit your dietary needs.