Natural Applesauce Cake
A moist and flavorful applesauce cake with a tender crumb, perfect for fall gatherings or everyday desserts, enhanced by natural apple flavor and versatile frosting options.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spray desired size pans with cooking spray.
- Prepare cake mix according to directions, adding 1 tablespoon flour to the dry mix.
- Stir the dry ingredients well.
- Substitute an equal amount of Mott's natural applesauce for the vegetable oil in the recipe.
- Bake the cake as directed, then allow it to cool.
- Frost the cake with your choice of frosting and garnish with fresh berries, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Natural Applesauce Cake, try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry mix. If you prefer a lighter texture, you can use half all-purpose flour and half white flour. Additionally, ensure that the applesauce is unsweetened for better control over sweetness. For a delightful twist, serve it with Butter Pecan Frosting for added richness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of the Natural Applesauce Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. It pairs beautifully with fresh berries for a burst of flavor and color. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a refreshing Ham 'N Mandarin Salad to balance the sweetness of the cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, slice and microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until warm, ensuring it remains moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Natural Applesauce Cake contains roughly 13 calories, with 0g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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, using store-bought natural applesauce is convenient and works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure it's unsweetened to maintain the right balance of flavors. If you prefer homemade, simply blend cooked apples until smooth, then measure out the equivalent amount for the recipe.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
To check if your cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready. Be cautious not to overbake, as that can lead to a dry texture. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time for best results.
Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely! To freeze the Natural Applesauce Cake, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bring it to room temperature before serving.
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).