Description
A moist and warmly spiced applesauce cake topped with rich, tangy cinnamon cream cheese frosting. This easy one-pan dessert is full of fall flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, making it perfect for family gatherings, bake sales, or cozy afternoons with a cup of tea.
Ingredients
Cake:
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2 cups (475 g) unsweetened applesauce
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2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
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1½ cups (300 g) brown sugar, packed
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1 tsp baking soda
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1 tsp baking powder
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1½ tsp ground cinnamon
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½ tsp ground nutmeg
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2 large eggs
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½ cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
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1 tsp vanilla extract
Frosting:
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8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, softened
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½ cup (113 g) butter, softened
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4 cups (480 g) powdered sugar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
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In a large bowl, whisk together applesauce, brown sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
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In another bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
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Gradually fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined—do not overmix.
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Pour batter into the prepared pan, spread evenly, and bake 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
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Cool cake completely in the pan before frosting.
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For the frosting: Beat cream cheese, butter, and vanilla until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and cinnamon, beating until fluffy.
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Spread frosting evenly over cooled cake, garnish if desired, slice, and serve.
Notes
Ensure cake is fully cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
Add ½ tsp ground ginger to the batter for extra spice.
Double the frosting recipe for a thicker layer.
Garnish with chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture.
Cake tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Française