If you’re on the lookout for a cozy, spiced treat that tastes like a warm hug from the past, then Grandma’s Applesauce Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. This delightful cake combines the natural sweetness of applesauce with the comforting flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of cloves, creating a moist and flavorful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender crumb and optional glaze, every bite feels like a timeless classic brought right to your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is wonderfully simple yet packed with ingredients that each play an essential role in bringing Grandma’s Applesauce Cake Recipe to life. From the applesauce that keeps it moist and naturally sweet, to the warming spices and a touch of vanilla, every component works harmoniously for amazing texture and flavor.
- 1 ½ cups unsweetened applesauce: The star ingredient that adds moisture and natural sweetness without extra fat.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Balances the tartness of the applesauce and contributes to the cake’s tender crumb.
- 2 large eggs: Provide structure and richness to the batter.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the cake’s body and texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cake rise, resulting in a light, fluffy texture.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses the cake with its signature warm, spicy note.
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds depth and subtle earthiness to the flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves (optional): Gives an aromatic touch that elevates the overall taste.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and tender crumb to the cake.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Provides warmth and rounds out the flavor profile.
- ½ cup buttermilk (or regular milk): Keeps the cake moist and tender.
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or raisins (optional): Adds texture and bursts of flavor.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: For the optional glaze, adding a sweet finishing touch.
- 2 tablespoons milk: Helps create the smooth consistency of the glaze.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the glaze with a hint of sweetness and aroma.
How to Make Grandma’s Applesauce Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to ensure the cake releases easily after baking. This simple prep step saves time and keeps your cake intact and beautiful.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the applesauce, granulated sugar, and softened butter until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. Next, add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well until fully incorporated. This wet base is what makes Grandma’s Applesauce Cake Recipe so rich and moist, setting you up for a perfect batter.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves if you’re using them, and salt. This blend of spices paired with leavening agents creates the cake’s inviting aroma and balanced rise.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ones in batches, alternating with the buttermilk. It’s important to start and finish with the dry mix for the best texture. Stir gently just until combined—overmixing can make the cake dense, and you want Grandma’s Applesauce Cake Recipe to be light and tender.
Step 5: Fold in Optional Mix-Ins
If you like a little extra texture, gently fold in chopped walnuts or raisins. These add delightful bursts of flavor and texture, but feel free to skip this step if you prefer a classic, smooth cake.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, checking with a toothpick inserted in the center—it should come out clean when the cake is done. Let it cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before transferring it completely to cool. Patience pays off with the perfect crumb!
Step 7: Make the Optional Glaze
To finish, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle this glaze over the cooled cake for a shiny, sweet topping that complements every bite of Grandma’s Applesauce Cake Recipe.
Step 8: Serve and Delight
Slice up your masterpiece and enjoy it as is, or with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence. This cake is wonderful warm or at room temperature and makes any moment special.
How to Serve Grandma’s Applesauce Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To make your serving extra cozy, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top or add a handful of chopped nuts. A spoonful of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can transform this humble cake into a decadent dessert worthy of company.
Side Dishes
This applesauce cake pairs beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making it an excellent choice for afternoon gatherings. For breakfast or brunch, serve it alongside fresh fruit or creamy yogurt to balance sweetness and freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, cut the cake into small squares and serve on a platter dusted with powdered sugar. You can also layer slices with whipped cream and fresh apple slices for a quick trifle-style dessert that keeps surprising your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The cake stays moist and flavorful, ready for a quick snack or a sweet finish to your meal.
Freezing
Grandma’s Applesauce Cake Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil or place in an airtight freezer bag. Freeze for up to three months. When you want a slice, thaw it overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.
Reheating
For a freshly-baked taste, reheat slices in the microwave for about 20 seconds or in a low oven for 5-10 minutes. If you’ve added glaze, consider warming the cake without it first, then drizzling glaze after reheating.
FAQs
Can I use sweetened applesauce instead of unsweetened?
You can, but since sweetened applesauce adds extra sugar, consider reducing the granulated sugar in the recipe slightly to keep the cake balanced and not overly sweet.
What makes the cake so moist?
The unsweetened applesauce keeps the cake tender and moist naturally, while the butter and buttermilk add richness and softness to the crumb. It’s a one-two punch for perfect texture.
Can I omit the nuts or raisins?
Absolutely! Those ingredients are optional. The cake tastes delicious on its own without them, but they do add wonderful texture and flavor if you’re looking for a little extra something.
Is it necessary to use buttermilk?
Buttermilk contributes to the cake’s tenderness and lightness, but if you don’t have any, regular milk works fine as a substitute. You might miss a slight tang, but the cake will still be wonderful.
How long does the glaze keep?
The glaze can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a quick whisk before drizzling to restore its smooth consistency.
Final Thoughts
Grandma’s Applesauce Cake Recipe is a charming throwback that never goes out of style. With its comforting blend of flavors and moist texture, it’s a perfect way to bring a little warmth and sweetness into your home. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a favorite in your household too!
Print
Grandma’s Applesauce Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Grandma’s Applesauce Cake is a moist, flavorful baked treat combining the natural sweetness of applesauce with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. This classic cake is easy to prepare and can be enhanced with optional walnuts or raisins for added texture. Topped with a simple vanilla glaze, it’s perfect for dessert or a cozy snack.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups unsweetened applesauce
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup buttermilk (or regular milk)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or raisins (optional)
Glaze Ingredients (Optional)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat the applesauce, granulated sugar, and softened butter together until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and beat until well incorporated.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves (if using), and salt.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—do not overmix to keep the cake tender.
- Add mix-ins (optional): Gently fold in the chopped walnuts or raisins, if using, to add texture and flavor.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the glaze (optional): In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze generously over the cooled cake.
- Serve: Slice the cake and serve as is, or pair with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. Enjoy your homemade Grandma’s Applesauce Cake!
Notes
- You can substitute the buttermilk with regular milk if needed.
- Adding walnuts or raisins is optional but adds a wonderful texture and flavor.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to maintain a tender crumb.
- The glaze is optional but provides a sweet finishing touch.
- Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
