Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful dessert that combines the moistness of applesauce with the warmth of spices. This cake is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a potluck, or just a cozy afternoon snack. The creamy cinnamon frosting adds a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the cake. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can make this delicious dessert in no time.
Why make this recipe
There are many reasons to make Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting. Firstly, applesauce adds moisture and flavor to the cake without making it too sweet. The blend of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves enhances the taste, providing a comforting and warm aroma that fills your kitchen.
This cake is also versatile. You can serve it for brunch, as a dessert after dinner, or even as a snack. It is suited for special occasions or a regular day when you crave something sweet. Additionally, this cake is easy to make, which makes it an excellent choice for beginner bakers. It requires minimal equipment and is forgiving, ensuring you end up with a delicious result even if you are not an experienced baker.
How to make Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
Making Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is a straightforward process. It involves preparing the cake batter, baking it, and then making the frosting to top it off. The steps are simple and can be followed easily, even by those new to baking.
Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (190 g)
1 teaspoon baking soda (5 g)
1/2 teaspoon baking powder (2 g)
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (1.5 g)
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (0.5 g)
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (0.5 g)
1/4 teaspoon salt (1.5 g)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (113 g)
1 cup granulated sugar (200 g)
1 large egg
1 cup unsweetened applesauce (240 ml)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5 ml)
For the Frosting:
8 oz cream cheese, softened (225 g)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (57 g)
3 cups powdered sugar (360 g)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5 ml)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (2 g)
Directions:
Prepare the Cake Batter:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing and flouring an 8×8-inch baking dish is essential to prevent the cake from sticking. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. This combination of dry ingredients will create the flavorful base for your cake.
Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is important, as it adds air into the batter, contributing to a light texture. After that, beat in the egg, followed by the applesauce and vanilla extract. Stir these wet ingredients until well combined.
Combine and Bake:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. It is crucial to mix until just combined to avoid over-mixing, which can make the cake tough. Once your batter is ready, pour it into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula. Place it in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. To check if it is done, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean. After baking, allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
Make the Frosting:
For the frosting, take a large mixing bowl and beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Next, gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until combined. Finally, add the vanilla extract and cinnamon, beating until light and fluffy. This frosting will add a creamy texture and delightful taste to your cake.
Frost and Serve:
Once the cake has cooled completely, evenly spread the cinnamon cream cheese frosting over the top using a spatula. Slice the cake into squares and serve. This moist, spiced applesauce cake with its deliciously creamy frosting will surely please everyone.
How to serve Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
Serve your Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting with a hot cup of coffee or tea. It can be enjoyed as a dessert or an afternoon snack. You might also add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for extra indulgence. For an added touch, sprinkle a bit of extra cinnamon on top of the frosting or garnish each slice with thin apple slices. It’s a great option for holiday gatherings or any casual get-together.
How to store Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
To store the cake, first, allow it to cool completely. Cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Keep the cake in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 5 days. If you have leftover cake without frosting, wrap it well and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Tips to make Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
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Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter, cream cheese, and egg are at room temperature. This helps to create a more homogenous batter and a better texture.
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Applesauce choice: For the best flavor, use unsweetened applesauce. You can also make your own applesauce if you prefer a fresh taste.
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Spice it up: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. If you love cinnamon, add a bit more, or try incorporating other spices like ginger for added warmth.
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Don’t overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix gently until just incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
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Frost it right: Make sure the cake is completely cooled before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and makes for a neat appearance.
Variation (if any)
You can customize this recipe in several ways. For a nutty flavor, consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the batter. If you want a chocolate twist, substitute a portion of the flour with cocoa powder. You can also use flavored applesauce, like cinnamon applesauce, to increase the flavor profile.
FAQs
1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake a day ahead. Store it in the refrigerator and frost it on the day you plan to serve it.
2. Can I use store-bought frosting?
Yes, if you’re short on time, using store-bought cream cheese frosting is an option. Choose a high-quality frosting for the best taste.
3. Is there a gluten-free version of this cake?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free. Ensure the baking powder and other ingredients are also gluten-free.
4. How can I keep the cake moist?
Keeping the cake covered and stored properly in the refrigerator will help maintain its moisture. You can also ensure you do not overbake it, as this can lead to dryness.
5. Can I serve this cake warm?
Yes, serving the cake warm enhances its flavors. Just be sure to let it cool slightly before frosting.
Nutritional Info (per serving):
- Calories: 300
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 28g
- Protein: 3g
This Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is a guaranteed hit for anyone who enjoys a sweet and spiced dessert. Its simplicity and delicious taste make it worthy of your baking repertoire. Enjoy every slice with friends and family!