Applesauce Cake With Lemon Glaze
A moist and flavorful applesauce cake infused with warm spices and topped with a tangy lemon glaze. Perfect for fall gatherings or everyday treats, this cake combines the sweetness of raisins with aromatic cinnamon and nutmeg, making it a comforting dessert suitable for family and friends alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg; set aside.
- Cream shortening with sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs and applesauce; mix well.
- Gradually stir in the flour mixture.
- Beat at medium speed of electric mixer for 2 minutes.
- Fold in raisins.
- Spoon batter into a nonstick 12-cup fluted pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool for 10 minutes.
- Invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Drizzle confectioners sugar and lemon juice over the cooled cake.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moist texture, ensure your applesauce is unsweetened. If you don't have shortening, butter can be used as a substitute, but it may alter the cake's texture slightly. Adding chopped walnuts or pecans can enhance the cake's flavor. For a fun twist, try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the batter. This cake pairs beautifully with Sparkling Catawba Punch, making it great for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this applesauce cake as a delightful dessert, perfect with a cup of tea or coffee. It can also be enjoyed for breakfast with a smear of butter. Pairing it with a side of Frozen Coleslaw can create a refreshing contrast. Consider garnishing each slice with a sprinkle of additional grated lemon rind for an extra burst of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover applesauce cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or until warmed through. This will help retain its moistness while keeping the flavors vibrant.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Applesauce Cake With Lemon Glaze contains roughly 248 calories, with 4g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of iron (11% 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 homemade applesauce for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade applesauce can add a fresh flavor to the cake. Just ensure it's well-pureed and not too watery. Adjust the sugar in the recipe if your applesauce is sweetened.
How can I make this cake healthier?
You can substitute whole wheat flour for half of the plain flour for added fiber. Additionally, using applesauce in place of some of the shortening can reduce fat content while maintaining moisture. This recipe can also be adapted into vegan recipes by using flax eggs and a plant-based shortening.
What can I do if the cake is too dry?
If your cake turns out dry, consider adjusting your oven temperature or baking time for next time. Adding more applesauce can help retain moisture. Serve with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of cream to enhance its texture and flavor.
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).