French Applesauce Cake
A moist and flavorful applesauce cake infused with warm spices, nuts, and raisins, perfect for cozy gatherings or teatime treats that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, cocoa or wheat germ, and cornstarch in a large bowl.
- Heat the applesauce in the oil until warm, then add to the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly.
- Stir in the nuts and raisins until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into a greased and floured tube pan.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, you can substitute some of the oil with unsweetened applesauce. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin. To enhance flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt or a splash of orange juice. Baking time can vary, so start checking for doneness a few minutes early.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delightful on its own but can be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee, making it a perfect dessert after a meal. For a refreshing contrast, consider serving it alongside a light salad like Slaw Without Mayo.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, cover the French Applesauce Cake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week. To reheat, warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy it at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of French Applesauce Cake contains roughly 738 calories, with 9g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value) and iron (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. It also contributes 11g 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 other types of sweeteners in this cake?
Yes, you can substitute the granulated sugar with alternatives like brown sugar, coconut sugar, or even maple syrup. If using liquid sweeteners like maple syrup, adjust the moisture content by reducing the oil slightly to maintain the right batter consistency.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately to achieve a similar texture to traditional flour. This makes it suitable for those following gluten-free diets without sacrificing flavor.
Can I freeze the French Applesauce Cake?
Yes, this cake freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before serving.
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).