Old-Fashioned Spanish Bar Applesauce Cake
A moist, spiced applesauce cake enriched with raisins and nuts, offering warm flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Perfect for cozy gatherings or afternoon tea, its tender crumb and fruity sweetness make it a delightful treat for all ages. Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the dry ingredients: flour, soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
- Cream the shortening and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg to the creamed mixture and beat well.
- Stir in the applesauce, then gradually add the dry ingredients.
- Fold in the raisins and nuts.
- Pour the batter into an 8-inch square pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool, then dust with confectioners sugar before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter cake, consider substituting half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce or Greek yogurt. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or replace them with additional raisins. Experiment with spices by adding a pinch of allspice or using pumpkin pie spice for a different flavor profile. This cake is excellent for using up leftover applesauce from other recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Old-Fashioned Spanish Bar Applesauce Cake dusted with confectioners sugar for a lovely presentation. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy it alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack, or serve as a dessert after a hearty meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover applesauce cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or enjoy cold for a refreshing treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old-Fashioned Spanish Bar Applesauce Cake contains roughly 511 calories, with 9g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value), iron (18% of the Daily Value), and potassium (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1050mg per serving (46% 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 sweetener in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like Stevia, adjusting the quantity according to the product's sweetness. Keep in mind this may slightly alter the flavor and texture, so it's best to stick with brown sugar for a more traditional taste.
What can I use instead of raisins in this cake?
If you don't have raisins on hand or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute them with dried cranberries, chopped dried apricots, or even chocolate chips for a sweet twist. Each option will provide a unique taste and texture to the cake.
Is this applesauce cake suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This cake freezes well. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying, and it'll taste just as fresh as when baked.
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).