Applesauce Cake Squares
Moist, rich applesauce cake squares with a deep chocolate flavor, topped with nutty coconut frosting—perfect for dessert lovers and gatherings seeking a delicious, easy-to-make treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place unsweetened chocolate and butter in a heavy saucepan over low heat; stir until chocolate melts.
- Set aside.
- Combine sugar, applesauce, eggs, and vanilla in a large bowl; mix well.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; add to the applesauce mixture, stirring well.
- Stir in the melted chocolate mixture.
- Spoon the batter into a greased 9-inch square baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
- Cool completely.
- Top with Nutty Coconut Frosting.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. If you don't have unsweetened chocolate, use cocoa powder mixed with butter as a substitute. You can also replace the applesauce with mashed bananas for a different twist. Make sure to check the doneness with a toothpick, as baking times can slightly vary.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the applesauce cake squares warm or at room temperature, topped with Nutty Coconut Frosting for a delightful treat. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a fun twist, serve with a side of Cold Pizza Dip as an appetizer before dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cake squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place a square in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warm. This makes for a delicious snack paired with a cup of coffee or tea.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Applesauce Cake Squares contains roughly 68 calories, with 0g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 493mg per serving (21% 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 sweetened applesauce instead of unsweetened?
Yes, you can use sweetened applesauce, but reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe by about 1/4 cup to balance the sweetness. This will help maintain the intended flavor of the cake without it becoming overly sweet.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on it, as ovens can vary; start checking a few minutes before the recommended baking time.
Can I freeze the applesauce cake squares?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled squares tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
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).