Mom Julie'S Applesauce Cake
A moist, spiced applesauce cake packed with raisins, walnuts, and warm spices, perfect for cozy gatherings and family desserts with rich flavors and comforting aroma.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the shortening and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix baking soda with applesauce and add to the creamed mixture.
- Combine cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg with the flour.
- Dust raisins and chopped black walnuts with 1/2 cup of flour.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, then fold in the floured raisins and nuts until well combined. The batter will be very thick.
- Grease a tube pan thoroughly.
- Line the pan with wax paper, then grease and flour the wax paper.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Mom Julie's Applesauce Cake, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or using homemade applesauce for a fresher taste. If you don't have black walnuts, regular walnuts or pecans make great substitutes. For a lighter version, you can replace half of the shortening with applesauce. If the batter is too thick, a little milk can help adjust the consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of Mom Julie's Applesauce Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside Palmer's Special Fruit Salad, which adds a refreshing contrast to the rich cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to a week, or freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it come to room temperature, then warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom Julie'S Applesauce Cake contains roughly 856 calories, with 14g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (93% of the Daily Value), iron (44% of the Daily Value), and calcium (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 776mg per serving (34% 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 without raisins?
Yes, you can omit the raisins if you prefer. You might consider adding chopped apples or even dried cranberries for a different texture and flavor. Just keep an eye on the moisture level, as it may affect the cake's overall consistency.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! Whole wheat flour can be used, but it may change the texture and density of the cake. To keep it light, consider using a blend of all-purpose and whole wheat flour, or add a bit more liquid to the batter if needed.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The best way to check if your cake is done is to insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, the cake is ready. Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens can vary.
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).