Molasses Applesauce Cake
A moist, flavorful applesauce cake with warm molasses and cinnamon notes, perfect for cozy gatherings or a comforting dessert for the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine dry ingredients in a mixing bowl. Cut in margarine.
- Add molasses, egg, and applesauce. Beat well.
- Stir in raisins.
- Pour batter into a greased and floured pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 to 45 minutes.
- Turn out the cake and sprinkle with confectioners' sugar or glaze with lemon juice and sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark molasses instead of light. If you're out of raisins, chopped dates or dried cranberries can be a great substitute. You can also replace the soft margarine with unsalted butter for a different texture. Make sure to sift the dry ingredients together to avoid clumps and ensure a smooth batter. This cake can also be made as cupcakes; just adjust the baking time to 20-25 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
This Molasses Applesauce Cake is delightful on its own but can be enhanced with a dusting of confectioners' sugar or a drizzle of lemon glaze. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea, making it perfect for afternoon gatherings. Serve it alongside Cheese Square Appetizers for a delightful snack platter, or enjoy it as a sweet finish to a hearty meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes. This keeps the cake moist and delicious.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Molasses Applesauce Cake contains roughly 620 calories, with 6g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 29g 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 1443mg per serving (63% 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 a different type of flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour for a healthier option, but keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly. If you want a gluten-free version, try a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour mix. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum to help with binding and texture.
How can I make this cake vegan?
To make this Molasses Applesauce Cake vegan, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let it sit for 5 minutes). Use a plant-based margarine or coconut oil instead of soft margarine. The cake will still be moist and flavorful!
What can I do if my cake is too dense?
If your cake turns out too dense, it could be due to overmixing the batter or measuring the flour incorrectly. Ensure you spoon and level the flour rather than scooping it directly with the measuring cup. If you want a lighter texture, consider folding in additional whipped egg whites before baking.
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).