If you’ve ever savored a slice of moist, warmly spiced cake that feels like a cozy hug from the past, then you absolutely need to try Grandma’s Applesauce Cake Recipe. This easy-to-make dessert brings together the perfect blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves with wholesome applesauce and tender butter, creating a cake with rich flavor and a delightfully soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Whether you’re baking for family gatherings or a simple treat to brighten your day, this recipe captures the nostalgic magic of homemade desserts like no other.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering wholesome, straightforward ingredients is the secret behind Grandma’s Applesauce Cake Recipe’s charm. Each component plays its part, from spices that give warmth and depth to the applesauce that keeps the cake irresistibly moist and tender.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives the cake structure while keeping it light and fluffy.
- 1½ teaspoons baking soda: Helps the cake rise perfectly for that tender crumb.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder: Adds a little extra lift ensuring a soft texture.
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon: The star spice that fills the cake with inviting warmth.
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves: A pinch of aromatic spice that adds depth and complexity.
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Complements the cinnamon and cloves for a balanced spice blend.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, making each bite more vibrant.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and a velvety texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetness that’s just right for the cake’s flavor.
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed): Brings moisture and a subtle caramel note.
- 2 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together while adding richness.
- 2 cups unsweetened applesauce: Keeps the cake moist and imparts fruity brightness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings a lovely aroma and enhances the spices.
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
- 1 cup raisins (optional): For bursts of sweetness and texture contrast.
How to Make Grandma’s Applesauce Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish or bundt pan. This ensures your cake will come out easily after baking, with no sticking to the pan’s sides.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. This blend of dry ingredients is where the aromatic foundation of Grandma’s Applesauce Cake Recipe begins, guaranteeing even distribution of spices and rising agents.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step incorporates air, which will help create the perfect tender crumb in your cake.
Step 4: Add Eggs, Applesauce, and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the applesauce and vanilla extract, which keep the cake moist and bursting with flavor.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cake tender and soft.
Step 6: Fold in Nuts and Raisins
If you’re using nuts or raisins, gently fold them into the batter now. They add wonderful texture and bursts of flavor that contrast beautifully with the smooth cake.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Grandma’s Applesauce Cake Recipe
Garnishes
For an irresistible finish, dust your applesauce cake with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze. Both options enhance the cake’s warm spices and add a touch of sweetness that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Side Dishes
Grandma’s Applesauce Cake Recipe pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. These accompaniments elevate the cake’s comforting flavors and make it perfect for cozy gatherings or a delightful dessert after dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, serve individual cake slices in rustic mason jars layered with whipped cream and caramel sauce. Or turn the cake into a trifling sensation by layering chunks with custard and fruit preserves. The versatility of this classic recipe means it can be dressed up or kept simple to suit any occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Grandma’s Applesauce Cake Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making your leftovers even more delicious with time.
Freezing
This applesauce cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 3 months, so you can enjoy a homemade treat anytime with minimal effort.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm slices in the microwave or oven until just heated through. This will bring back the tender texture and release the cake’s delightful spices, just like freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I substitute the applesauce with another fruit puree?
Absolutely! While applesauce is classic, you can replace some or all of it with crushed pineapple for a tropical twist or even pumpkin puree for a seasonal variation.
Do I have to use nuts and raisins?
No, nuts and raisins are optional. If you’re not a fan or have allergies, simply omit them. The cake will still be moist and flavorful without them.
Is this cake gluten-free?
The traditional recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends to create a version suitable for gluten sensitivities.
How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready to come out of the oven.
Can I make this cake vegan?
This recipe isn’t vegan as it includes butter and eggs, but you can try swapping butter for vegan margarine and eggs for flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with water to create a vegan-friendly alternative.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about Grandma’s Applesauce Cake Recipe that makes it a timeless favorite in any kitchen. It’s warm, inviting, and endlessly comforting—a dessert that brings people together with every slice. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make your own memories around this classic cake. Happy baking!
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Grandma’s Applesauce Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 12–15 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Grandma’s Applesauce Cake is a moist, spiced dessert featuring warm cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg flavors, enhanced by the natural sweetness of applesauce. This old-fashioned American cake is perfect for fall and holiday gatherings, with optional walnuts and raisins adding texture and depth. Easy to prepare and bake, it becomes even more flavorful when made a day ahead.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Add-ins
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1 cup raisins
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a bundt pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which usually takes a few minutes.
- Add Eggs and Flavors: Beat the eggs into the creamed mixture one at a time to ensure even incorporation. Then, stir in the unsweetened applesauce and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
- Add Nuts and Raisins: If using, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans and raisins evenly throughout the batter.
- Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
- Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes after baking. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
- Optional Finish: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze of your choice for an extra touch of sweetness and presentation.
Notes
- This cake becomes moister and more flavorful when stored and served the next day, making it a great make-ahead dessert.
- For a fruity variation, substitute part of the applesauce with crushed pineapple.
