Jean'S Applesauce Cake
A moist and flavorful applesauce cake with warm spices and crunchy walnuts, perfect for cozy gatherings and family dessert tables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Gradually add brown sugar to shortening and cream until fluffy.
- Add the unbeaten egg to the mixture.
- Beat hard, then stir in applesauce.
- Sift flour with salt, soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
- Add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet mixture and beat until smooth.
- Fold in chopped walnuts.
- Pour batter into a well-greased 8 x 8 x 2-inch pan.
- Bake in a 350°F (moderate oven) for 45 to 55 minutes or until done.
- Alternatively, bake in two 8 or 9-inch layer pans for 35 to 40 minutes.
- Cool on a rack and frost as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting half of the shortening with applesauce. This keeps the moisture while reducing fat. If you don't have walnuts, pecans or even chocolate chips can be a delicious alternative. Ensure that your applesauce is thick and smooth for the best texture. Remember to sift your dry ingredients to avoid lumps and ensure even mixing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of Jean's Applesauce Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. It pairs beautifully with Zesty Bread Sticks for a unique meal. Enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. This cake is also excellent for potlucks and gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm a whole cake in a low oven until heated through. This will help maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jean'S Applesauce Cake contains roughly 560 calories, with 7g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is a good source of calcium (14% of the Daily Value), protein (13% of the Daily Value), and iron (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1132mg per serving (49% 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 homemade applesauce instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Homemade applesauce can enhance the flavor of the cake. Just ensure it's well-blended and thick to match the consistency of store-bought varieties. The natural sweetness may alter the sugar content slightly, so taste and adjust if necessary.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Baking time may vary, so it's best to start checking around the 40-minute mark if using layer pans.
Can I freeze the applesauce cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving for the best texture.
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).