Old Fashioned Applesauce Cake

Old Fashioned Applesauce Cake is a nostalgic, cozy dessert that’s perfectly spiced and incredibly moist. Made from scratch with simple ingredients and topped with a luscious cinnamon cream cheese frosting, this cake is just the right balance of sweetness and spice. Whether you’re serving it as an afternoon snack or a holiday treat, this recipe never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic flavor with warm spices and applesauce

• Super moist texture that stays fresh for days

• Made with pantry-friendly ingredients

• No special equipment required

• Perfect for fall, holidays, or anytime comfort food

• Great make-ahead dessert

• Easy cinnamon cream cheese frosting

• Optionally studded with chopped pecans for crunch

• Easy enough for beginner bakers

• Crowd-pleasing and kid-friendly

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the cake:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 3/4 teaspoon salt

• 2 teaspoons cinnamon

• 1 teaspoon ground ginger

• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 2 eggs

• 2 cups unsweetened applesauce

• 3/4 cup vegetable oil

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup chopped pecans

For the cinnamon cream cheese frosting:

• 8 oz package cream cheese, at room temperature

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

• 3 cups powdered sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan with nonstick spray.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves until combined.

3. In another bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs with an electric mixer until just combined.

4. Add the applesauce, vegetable oil, and vanilla to the egg mixture and beat until smooth.

5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just incorporated. Fold in chopped pecans.

6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

7. Bake for 35–45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan before frosting.

9. To make the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until creamy. Add powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla. Beat until smooth.

10. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake, slice, and serve.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Swap pecans for walnuts or omit entirely for a nut-free version

• Add raisins or dried cranberries for extra texture and sweetness

• Use spiced applesauce for even more flavor

• Turn into cupcakes by baking in a muffin tin (adjust bake time to 20–25 minutes)

• Top with a dusting of cinnamon sugar instead of frosting for a lighter option

• Use whole wheat flour for a more wholesome version

• Add a pinch of cardamom for a subtle twist

• Use maple syrup in the frosting for added depth

• Make it dairy-free by using a vegan cream cheese and butter

• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream

Storage/Reheating

Room Temperature: Store covered for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Let sit at room temperature before serving for best texture.
Freezer (Unfrosted): Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
To Reheat: Enjoy at room temperature or warm a slice in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.

FAQs

Can I make this cake without the frosting?

Yes, the cake is flavorful enough to enjoy on its own or with a light dusting of powdered sugar.

Can I use sweetened applesauce instead of unsweetened?

You can, but reduce the sugar slightly in the batter to compensate for the added sweetness.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Just store it in the refrigerator and frost before serving.

What kind of applesauce is best?

Unsweetened, smooth applesauce is ideal. You can also use homemade applesauce for a more rustic flavor.

Can I bake this cake in a 9×13 pan?

Yes, but the cake will be thinner. Check for doneness around 30–35 minutes.

How do I make this gluten-free?

Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute. Make sure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Is it possible to make this vegan?

Yes. Use flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg), dairy-free yogurt instead of cream cheese, and plant-based butter.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes. Double all ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust baking time as needed.

Why did my cake sink in the middle?

This can happen if the batter is overmixed or the cake is underbaked. Be sure to measure accurately and test with a toothpick.

Can I use apples instead of applesauce?

Not directly, but you can blend cooked apples into a sauce to substitute. Store-bought applesauce is more consistent for baking.

Conclusion

Old Fashioned Applesauce Cake is the perfect blend of homey, spiced goodness and comforting sweetness. Moist and flavorful with a silky cinnamon cream cheese frosting, it’s a treat that’s perfect for family gatherings, cozy evenings, or holiday tables. Simple to make and always satisfying, this cake is sure to become a staple in your baking rotation.