Grandma'S Applesauce Cake
Grandma's Applesauce Cake is a moist, flavorful dessert featuring warm cinnamon and cloves, with tender raisins and crunchy nuts. Perfect for autumn afternoons or family gatherings, its rich apple aroma and comforting spice blend make it a timeless favorite for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the butter until smooth.
- Add sugar, eggs, and hot applesauce to the creamed butter and mix well.
- Rub raisins with a tablespoon of flour to coat them.
- Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda (dissolved in hot applesauce), salt, cinnamon, and cloves to the mixture.
- Stir in the raisins and chopped nuts.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9 x 13-inch pan or two loaf pans.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister cake, use homemade applesauce if possible. You can substitute the butter with applesauce for a lighter version. If you prefer a spicier cake, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger. To enhance flavor, try using brown sugar instead of white sugar. If raisins aren't your favorite, chopped dried apricots or cranberries can be great alternatives.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious applesauce cake with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee. For a delightful twist, consider serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This cake is perfect for brunch or as a dessert after a hearty meal.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the cake to cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze slices for up to 3 months. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or enjoy it cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Applesauce Cake contains roughly 388 calories, with 3g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (15% 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 make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This applesauce cake actually tastes better after a day as the flavors meld. You can bake it a day in advance and store it covered at room temperature. Just be sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it to maintain its moisture.
What type of applesauce should I use?
You can use either homemade or store-bought applesauce for this recipe. If using store-bought, choose a variety that is unsweetened for a more natural taste. If you prefer a spiced flavor, look for cinnamon applesauce to enhance the cake's overall flavor profile.
Can I substitute the eggs in this recipe?
Yes, you can replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce for a vegan version. For each egg, mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. Alternatively, use 1/4 cup of applesauce per egg for a moist, egg-free cake.
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).