Applesauce Raisin Nut Cake
A moist, flavorful applesauce raisin nut cake combining warm spices and sweet fruit, perfect for dessert or tea time, appealing to those who enjoy hearty, spiced baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream sugar and butter until fluffy.
- Add eggs and beat well.
- Add applesauce and raisins; mix thoroughly.
- Combine dry ingredients in a separate bowl.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, stirring until blended.
- Fold in nuts.
- Pour batter into an angel food cake pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister cake, consider using homemade applesauce. If you don't have nuts on hand, you can substitute them with seeds or omit them entirely for a nut-free version. For a spicier taste, add a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon and allspice. This cake is also delightful with a glaze; try a simple powdered sugar glaze for added sweetness. For a fun twist, add chocolate chips like in Chewy Chocolate Chips.
Serving Suggestions
This Applesauce Raisin Nut Cake pairs beautifully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. It can also be served as a sweet breakfast treat alongside coffee or tea. Consider adding a side of fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced meal. For a more savory option, serve it with a slice of cheese for a delightful contrast.
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 or freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Applesauce Raisin Nut Cake contains roughly 1563 calories, with 23g protein, 351g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (71% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (58% of the Daily Value), and potassium (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2567mg per serving (112% 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 unsweetened applesauce in this recipe?
Yes, you can use unsweetened applesauce to reduce the sugar content of the cake. However, you might want to adjust the sugar in the recipe slightly to maintain the sweetness. Unsweetened applesauce provides moisture without added sugars, making it a great choice for healthier baking.
What type of nuts work best in this cake?
Walnuts and pecans are the most common choices for this recipe, as they add a rich flavor and crunchy texture. However, you can use almonds or hazelnuts if you prefer. Just be sure to chop them roughly to ensure they distribute evenly throughout the batter.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version of this cake, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. You can also consider using almond flour for a nutty flavor. Ensure that all other ingredients, especially the baking soda and spices, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
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).