Orange Slice-Applesauce Cake
A moist, flavorful applesauce cake infused with warm spices and accented with orange slices, perfect for fall gatherings and those who enjoy fruity, spiced desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the applesauce, chopped nuts, and raisins to the mixture and mix well.
- Sift together the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, allspice, nutmeg, cloves, cinnamon, and cocoa, then gradually add to the wet mixture.
- Stir in the beaten eggs until fully incorporated.
- Fold in the orange slice candies cut into pieces.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using unsweetened applesauce or reducing the sugar slightly. You can substitute walnuts for the chopped nuts if desired, or use a mix of nuts for added flavor. Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier creaming. For a unique twist, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to enhance the cake's flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Orange Slice-Applesauce Cake is delightful served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat. For a festive touch, sprinkle powdered sugar on top before serving, or serve with fresh fruit for added color and flavor.
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, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, wrap individual slices in foil and warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes, preserving their moist texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Slice-Applesauce Cake contains roughly 437 calories, with 7g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. It also contributes 9g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 fresh oranges instead of orange slice candies?
Yes, you can substitute fresh orange zest and juice for the orange slice candies. Use the zest of one orange and about a tablespoon of juice to infuse a natural citrus flavor into the cake. However, the texture and sweetness will differ, so adjust sugar accordingly.
Is this cake suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Orange Slice-Applesauce Cake is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or animal by-products. However, if you want to make it vegan, use flax eggs or applesauce in place of the eggs and ensure the butter is replaced with a plant-based alternative.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make this cake gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly, so keep an eye on it as it bakes to ensure it doesn't overcook.
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).