Extra Moist Applesauce Cake
A moist, flavorful applesauce cake with warm spices and raisins, perfect for fall gatherings or cozy desserts, appealing to those who love fruity, spiced baked treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine butter, applesauce, and raisins in a 3-quart pan.
- Heat until the butter melts.
- Remove from heat and add soda, which will foam up.
- Add remaining ingredients to the mixture.
- Pour the batter into a greased 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 to 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra moisture, consider adding a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans, which also provide a pleasant crunch. If you're short on applesauce, you can substitute half with mashed bananas for a different flavor profile. Ensure your butter is softened for better blending. If you want to reduce sugar, try using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup, but adjust the liquid ingredients accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious applesauce cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. It pairs beautifully with a cup of spiced chai or coffee. For an afternoon tea, consider serving alongside Ann Gratwick's Vegetable Souffle for a complete treat experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover applesauce cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, slice the cake and warm in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until just warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Extra Moist Applesauce Cake contains roughly 526 calories, with 6g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value), iron (25% of the Daily Value), and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. It also contributes 17g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 instead of sweetened?
Yes, using unsweetened applesauce will work well in this recipe. You may want to slightly increase the sugar to maintain the sweetness, depending on your taste preference. This substitution can also make the cake a bit healthier without compromising moisture.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make this applesauce cake gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend is designed for baking, and you may need to add xanthan gum to help with structure. The cake may have a slightly different texture but will still be delicious.
What can I substitute for raisins?
If you don't have raisins on hand or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute them with chopped dried cranberries or apricots. This will give the cake a unique twist while still adding sweetness and texture. Fresh apple chunks can also be a delightful alternative.
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).