Applesauce Raisin Cake(Yields 9 X 13-Inch Cake)
A moist, flavorful applesauce raisin cake with warm spices, perfect for dessert or teatime, appealing to those who enjoy fruity, spiced baked goods. No icing needed.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream together shortening and sugar.
- Beat in the egg, then add applesauce and blend well.
- In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and allspice.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the applesauce mixture and blend thoroughly.
- Stir in water and raisins until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into a greased and floured 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool, then cut into 2-inch squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsweetened applesauce and adding chopped nuts or additional spices like nutmeg. If you prefer a lighter cake, you can substitute half of the shortening with applesauce. Keep an eye on the baking time; depending on your oven, it may vary slightly. This cake can also be made with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the applesauce raisin cake warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness. It pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Consider enjoying it alongside a cup of coffee or tea, making it a delightful afternoon treat or dessert option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover applesauce raisin cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze for up to three months. To reheat, microwave individual pieces for about 15-20 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Applesauce Raisin Cake(Yields 9 X 13-Inch Cake) contains roughly 254 calories, with 3g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 784mg per serving (34% 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 fresh apples instead of applesauce?
While fresh apples can be used, they will need to be cooked down into a sauce before adding to the cake. This will alter the texture and moisture content, so ensure to adjust the quantities accordingly to achieve the right consistency.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of the cake?
You can enhance the flavor by adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch. Dried cranberries or other dried fruits can also be substituted for raisins for a different flavor profile.
Is this cake suitable for freezing?
Yes, this applesauce raisin cake freezes well. Ensure it is completely cooled before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight when ready to enjoy, and warm it up for the best taste.
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).