"Down East" Applesauce Cake
A moist, flavorful applesauce cake packed with dried fruits and nuts, perfect for cozy afternoons or holiday gatherings, offering warm spices and rich textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the shortening and sugar; stir in Karo syrup.
- Add the beaten egg and beat well.
- Put the dates, raisins, and nut meats through a food grinder.
- Add the ground fruits and nuts to the first mixture.
- Sift together the flour, salt, soda, nutmeg, and cinnamon, then combine with the mixture.
- Blend in the applesauce.
- Pour into an 8 x 12-inch pan and bake at 325°F for 25 to 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. You can also substitute applesauce with mashed bananas for a different twist. If you don't have shortening, butter or margarine will work, but adjust the quantity slightly to maintain the cake's moisture. Ensure to sift the dry ingredients well for a lighter texture. This cake can be enhanced with chopped nuts or even a dash of vanilla extract.
Serving Suggestions
This Applesauce Cake is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Serve it alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a light salad like Low Calorie Orange Salad to balance the sweetness of the cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake, where it will last for about a week. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm in the oven at 300°F until heated through. This will help maintain its moist texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Down East" Applesauce Cake contains roughly 749 calories, with 9g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2076mg per serving (90% 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 dried fruits instead of dates and raisins?
Absolutely! You can substitute dates and raisins with dried cranberries, apricots, or figs, depending on your preference. Just ensure the total amount of dried fruit remains the same to keep the consistency of the batter. Each fruit will impart its own unique flavor, adding variety to this classic recipe.
How can I make this cake healthier?
To make this Applesauce Cake healthier, you can reduce the sugar by using a sugar substitute or natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. Additionally, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber. Since this is a vegetarian recipe, it can easily fit into a balanced diet when served with fresh fruit or a side salad.
What should I do if my cake is too dry?
If your cake turns out dry, it could be due to overbaking or not enough moisture in the batter. To remedy this, try adding a bit more applesauce next time, or consider a simple syrup soak after baking. If the cake is already baked, serve it with a sauce or topping like caramel or a fruit compote to enhance moisture.
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).