Addie Hall'S Applesauce Cake
A moist, spiced applesauce cake loaded with raisins, dates, and pecans, perfect for comforting gatherings or afternoon tea with warm spices and fruity sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together the shortening and sugar until well combined.
- Add the beaten eggs to the mixture and beat well.
- Sift together the flour, salt, cinnamon, allspice, and cloves.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the egg mixture, alternating with applesauce, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.
- Place the soda in a measuring cup.
- Pour the hot water over the soda and stir to combine, then add to the batter.
- Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Fold in the raisins, chopped dates, and chopped pecans.
- Pour the batter into a prepared baking pan and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of shortening. You can substitute half of the applesauce with mashed bananas for added moisture and sweetness. If you don't have allspice, a mix of nutmeg and cinnamon can work well. Also, be sure to sift the dry ingredients to prevent clumping and ensure an even texture.
Serving Suggestions
This applesauce cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Serve it alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat. For a festive touch, drizzle with White Party Icing to enhance its sweetness and visual appeal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover applesauce cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, slice individual pieces and warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy it cold as a delightful snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Addie Hall'S Applesauce Cake contains roughly 2781 calories, with 34g protein, 348g carbohydrates, and 173g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (226% of the Daily Value), iron (124% of the Daily Value), and calcium (111% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1723mg per serving (75% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of nuts in this cake?
Yes, you can easily substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds based on your preference. Just ensure that the nuts are chopped to similar sizes to maintain the cake's texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that all other ingredients, such as baking soda and spices, are gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the recipe.
How can I make this cake more festive for holidays?
To make the cake more festive, consider adding candied fruits or a sprinkle of holiday-themed spices like nutmeg. You can also top it with a layer of cream cheese frosting for a delicious twist that elevates the flavor profile.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).