Kincaid Mcclellan'S Applesauce Cake
A moist, flavorful applesauce cake infused with warm spices, raisins, and optional nuts, perfect for cozy gatherings and autumn celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the butter until smooth.
- Gradually add sugar and beat in the eggs.
- Sift together flour with cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
- Alternately add the flour mixture and hot applesauce to the creamed mixture, stirring well.
- Stir in the raisins (and nuts if desired).
- Pour the batter into a greased 9 x 9-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 to 50 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moist cake, ensure your applesauce is hot before adding it to the mixture. You can substitute half the sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile. If you want to enhance the texture, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans. This cake is great for using up leftover applesauce, making it a perfect fit for your fall baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful cake warm or at room temperature, optionally with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a sweeter treat. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. Consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast or as a dessert after a hearty meal like Baked Mushroom Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover applesauce cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through, ensuring they remain moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kincaid Mcclellan'S Applesauce Cake contains roughly 694 calories, with 8g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (61% of the Daily Value) and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 863mg per serving (38% 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 unsweetened applesauce in this recipe?
Yes, you can use unsweetened applesauce in this recipe. Just be aware that the cake may be less sweet, so you might want to adjust the sugar slightly to your taste.
What can I substitute for butter if I want a dairy-free version?
For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based margarine. Both options will keep the moisture and texture of the cake intact.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake can be made a day in advance. Just make sure to cool it completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap to keep it fresh. The flavors will even improve as it sits, making it a great make-ahead dessert.
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).