Are you craving a sweet and moist dessert? You’ll love this Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting! This cake is easy to make and packed with flavor. Perfect for any occasion, it combines the warmth of cinnamon with rich, creamy frosting. Follow my simple guide to create a treat that impresses everyone. Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this cake irresistible!
Ingredients
Applesauce Cake Components
To create a moist and tasty applesauce cake, gather these simple ingredients:
– 2 cups unsweetened applesauce
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 3 large eggs
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
These ingredients mix together to create a cake that is rich in flavor and easy to make. The applesauce gives moisture, while the sugars add sweetness.
Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients
For the creamy topping, you will need:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)
This frosting is smooth and adds a lovely cinnamon taste. It pairs perfectly with the cake.
Optional Add-ins or Substitutes
You can customize your cake with these fun add-ins:
– Chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) for crunch
– Raisins or dried cranberries for extra sweetness
– Substitute applesauce with mashed bananas for a different flavor
Feel free to swap ingredients based on your taste. These options help you make the cake your own. For the frosting, if you want a dairy-free option, use a plant-based cream cheese. Check out the full recipe for more tips!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Applesauce Cake
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of unsweetened applesauce, 1 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup of vegetable oil. Mix until well combined. Next, beat in 3 large eggs one at a time. Make sure each egg blends in before adding the next. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mix to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or your cake may turn out dense. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even baking.
Making the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cake bakes, let’s make the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter together. Blend until creamy and smooth. Slowly add 2 cups of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Mix until fully combined. If the frosting is too thick, add milk 1 tablespoon at a time. Keep mixing until you reach the right spreadable consistency.
Baking and Cooling the Cake
Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. Check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, it’s ready. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. When the cake is cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top. For the final touch, slice the cake into squares and serve on a decorative plate. Dust a little extra cinnamon on top for a beautiful finish.
For the full recipe, visit the recipe section above. Enjoy your delicious applesauce cake!
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve the Perfect Cake Texture
To get a soft and moist applesauce cake, you need to mix the batter just right. Mix wet ingredients well, but don’t overdo it when adding dry ones. Stir until you see no dry flour. This helps keep the cake light and fluffy. Using fresh applesauce adds more moisture, so it’s a great choice.
Best Practices for Frosting Application
When frosting your cake, make sure it is completely cool. If you frost too soon, the heat will melt the cream cheese frosting. Use a spatula to spread the frosting evenly. Start in the center and work your way to the edges. If you want a smooth look, dip the spatula in warm water first.
Presentation and Serving Suggestions
Slice the cake into squares for easy serving. Place each square on a decorative plate. For a fun touch, dust a bit of cinnamon on top. You can also add thin apple slices as a garnish. This makes the cake look inviting and fresh. For the best taste, serve it with a warm cup of tea or coffee.
You can find the full recipe for this delightful cake, which includes all the steps and tips needed for success.
Variations
Alternate Spice Combinations
You can change the spices for fun flavors! Try using nutmeg or ginger alongside cinnamon. A mix of all three adds warmth and depth. For a zesty twist, add a hint of cardamom. Each spice brings its own charm to the cake.
Gluten-Free or Dairy-Free Adaptations
For gluten-free options, use a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it has a good binding agent. For dairy-free, swap the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese. Coconut cream also works well in frosting. These changes let more people enjoy this treat.
Layer Cake Version
Want a fancy look? Make a layer cake! Just double the batter and bake in two round pans. Stack the layers with frosting in between. This adds height and makes it more special for events. Don’t forget to frost the top and sides too!
For the full recipe of the applesauce cake with cinnamon cream cheese frosting, check out the earlier sections. Each variation gives you a chance to create something unique and delicious!
Storage Info
Proper Storage Methods for Applesauce Cake
To keep your applesauce cake fresh, wrap it well. Use plastic wrap or foil. Store it in an airtight container. This helps keep moisture in and flavors bright. Place the cake in a cool, dry place. Avoid direct sunlight or heat. If you keep it this way, it should last for about three days.
Freezing the Cake and Frosting
You can freeze applesauce cake for later enjoyment. First, let the cake cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. You can also freeze the frosting. Place it in a small container, or bag, and seal it well. The cake and frosting can last up to three months in the freezer.
Shelf Life and Reheating Instructions
When stored properly, applesauce cake stays fresh for several days. If you freeze it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, use a microwave or oven. In the microwave, heat a slice for 15-20 seconds. In the oven, wrap it in foil and warm it at 350°F for about 10 minutes. The cake will taste just as good as when you first made it!
FAQs
Can I use store-bought applesauce?
Yes, you can use store-bought applesauce. It saves time and works well. Look for unsweetened applesauce for the best flavor. This will keep your cake from being too sweet. Store-bought options come in many flavors. You can try cinnamon or spiced applesauce for a fun twist.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
To check if the cake is done, use a toothpick. Insert it into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. This usually takes 30 to 35 minutes. If there is batter on the toothpick, bake for a few more minutes. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking.
What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?
You can use Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese instead of cream cheese. Both will give a creamy texture. If you prefer a dairy-free option, try using whipped coconut cream. This will still taste great with the cinnamon. Adjust the sugar in the frosting to match the sweetness you like.
For the complete recipe, refer to the Full Recipe section above.
This article covered how to make a delicious applesauce cake with cinnamon cream cheese frosting. You learned about key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for perfecting the cake. I shared variations to fit different diets and storage methods to keep your cake fresh. Remember, baking is fun, and you can tweak recipes to match your taste. Enjoy making this cake for yourself or loved ones!
