Jim'S Applesauce Cake

Prep: 10 min Cook: 60 min Cuisine: American

A moist, spiced applesauce cake with warm flavors of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, perfect for fall gatherings or cozy dessert occasions.

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Ingredients

  • 3 cups flour
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup soft shortening
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon allspice
  • 3 tablespoons cocoa
  • 2 1/4 cups sugar
  • 3 eggs
  • 2 1/4 cups applesauce
  • 1 to 1 1/2 cups raisins (optional)

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients together (about 2 minutes).
  2. Pour the batter into a greased and floured Bundt pan.
  3. Bake in a 350°F oven for 60 minutes.
  4. Frost with vanilla cream frosting or cream cheese frosting before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter version, consider substituting half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce. If you prefer a spicier flavor, increase the cinnamon and nutmeg slightly. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth batter. Mixing for about 2 minutes is key to achieving a good rise. For a fun twist, try adding a handful of chopped nuts or using brown sugar instead of white.

Serving Suggestions

This applesauce cake is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Serve it as a dessert after a hearty meal or alongside coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. You could also try it with a side of Pineapple Salad Or Christmas Salad for a refreshing contrast.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover applesauce cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, simply place individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Jim'S Applesauce Cake contains roughly 1265 calories, with 33g protein, 272g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (194% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (132% of the Daily Value), and iron (126% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).

1265 kcal 63% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 32.7g 65% DV
Total Fat 25.8g 33% DV
Carbs 272.3g 99% DV
Fiber 54.3g 100% DV
Sugar 8.5g 17% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 3000mg 100% DV
Potassium 3036.7mg 65% DV
Cholesterol 1.6mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 36.9mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 118.6mg 100% DV
Calcium 1017.3mg 78% DV
Iron 22.7mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 store-bought applesauce instead of homemade?

Yes, store-bought applesauce works perfectly in this recipe. Just ensure it's unsweetened to control the sugar content. Homemade applesauce can add a personal touch, but convenience is key, especially for busy bakers.

What can I substitute for shortening?

You can substitute shortening with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil for a richer flavor. If you want a healthier option, consider using half applesauce and half butter to maintain moisture while reducing fat.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the cake is ready. Be careful not to overbake, as this can dry out the 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).

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