Can I use sweetened applesauce in Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting?

Yes, you can use sweetened applesauce if needed, but the cake may turn out slightly sweeter. If using sweetened applesauce, consider reducing the granulated sugar slightly to maintain balanced flavor.

Can I freeze Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting?

Yes. For best results, freeze the unfrosted cake tightly wrapped for up to two months. Thaw it completely before adding the cinnamon cream cheese frosting. You can also freeze individual frosted slices in airtight containers.

What spices pair best with Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting?

Cinnamon is the dominant flavor, but nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and allspice also complement the applesauce beautifully. These warm spices create the classic cozy flavor associated with homemade spice cake recipes.

Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Easy Recipe

Name: Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 cup unsweetened applesauce; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting); 3 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for frosting)

Description

This Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is a moist and flavorful spice cake made with unsweetened applesauce, warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, then topped with a rich cinnamon cream cheese frosting. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or cozy homemade desserts, this easy cake delivers soft texture and comforting flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 cup unsweetened applesauce
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
3 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for frosting)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour an 8×8-inch baking dish.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg and mix until fully combined, then stir in the applesauce and vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top evenly.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
To make the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon, beating until fluffy.
Spread the cinnamon cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
Slice and serve the cake immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

Notes

Use room temperature butter and cream cheese for smoother mixing.
Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake soft and tender.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
You can add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra texture.
The cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.
Freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 2 months for make-ahead baking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 450 kcal
Sugar: 38 g
Sodium: 240 mg
Fat: 21 g
Saturated Fat: 13 g
Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
Trans Fat: 0.5 g
Carbohydrates: 61 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 4 g
Cholesterol: 70 mg