Applesauce Oatmeal Cake
A moist and flavorful applesauce oatmeal cake with raisins and walnuts, perfect for cozy gatherings or as a wholesome dessert option for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine shortening, sugar, eggs, and vanilla in a mixing bowl and beat until well blended.
- Fold in applesauce, raisins, chopped walnuts, and quick oats until evenly distributed.
- In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce. You can also use coconut oil or butter in place of shortening. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts or replace them with sunflower seeds. To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cloves along with the cinnamon.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delicious on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a cozy breakfast option, serve it alongside Aunt Pearl'S Silver Dollar Pancakes. It also makes a great snack or dessert option with a cup of tea or coffee.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Applesauce Oatmeal Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, warm slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Applesauce Oatmeal Cake contains roughly 717 calories, with 5g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 764mg per serving (33% 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 fruits instead of applesauce?
Yes, you can substitute applesauce with mashed bananas, pureed pears, or even pumpkin puree for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the texture and sweetness of the cake.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum for proper binding. The taste and texture may vary slightly, but the cake will still be delicious.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water as a binder. Use a plant-based shortening or coconut oil, and ensure the sugar is vegan-friendly. The resulting cake will be equally moist and flavorful.
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).