Applesauce Cinnamon Cake
A moist and flavorful applesauce cinnamon cake featuring warm cinnamon and sweet applesauce, perfect for dessert or a cozy treat for family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar and cinnamon together and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix together the yellow cake mix, applesauce, and eggs until well combined.
- Grease a pan and sprinkle about 1 tablespoon of the sugar and cinnamon mixture in the bottom.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan.
- Sprinkle some of the remaining sugar and cinnamon mixture over the batter, saving some for topping.
- Pour the remaining batter over the first layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining sugar and cinnamon mixture on top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using egg whites instead of whole eggs. You can substitute half of the applesauce with unsweetened pumpkin puree for a different flavor profile. If you want a more pronounced cinnamon taste, feel free to increase the cinnamon to 5 teaspoons. This cake is also great with a cream cheese frosting if you want to elevate it further.
Serving Suggestions
This Applesauce Cinnamon Cake is delightful on its own, but you can serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. Consider serving it alongside a light salad for a balanced meal, or with a slice of Chocolate-Apricot Upside-Down Cake for a dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, simply place a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warmed through. This helps to restore its moistness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Applesauce Cinnamon Cake contains roughly 188 calories, with 2g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 5g fat.
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 instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Homemade applesauce can add a fresh taste to your cake. Just ensure it's smooth and not too watery. You might want to adjust the sugar content based on the sweetness of your homemade applesauce.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix designed for baking. Make sure to check the ingredients to ensure they fit your dietary needs. The texture may vary slightly, but it should still be delicious.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it around the 20-minute mark, as oven temperatures can vary. If the top is browning too quickly, you can cover it with foil to prevent burning.
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).