Applesauce Cake With Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
This comforting applesauce cake features a moist texture and rich flavors enhanced by cinnamon cream cheese frosting, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour provides structure
- 1/2 tsp baking soda helps leavening
- 2 tsp baking powder aids in rising
- 1/2 tsp salt enhances flavor
- 1 tsp cinnamon adds warmth
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger introduces a bit of spice
- 1 stick unsalted butter, softened contributes moisture and richness
- 1 cup brown sugar adds sweetness and depth
- 1 tsp vanilla extract brings out flavors
- 2 large eggs binds ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups applesauce adds moisture and sweetness
- 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped provides crunch
For the Frosting
- 5 oz cream cheese, softened forms the base for frosting
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened adds creaminess to frosting
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract enhances frosting flavor
- 1 cup confectioners sugar sweetens and gives frosting structure
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon for added flavor in frosting
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and place a rack in the middle. Grease an 8 or 9-inch square baking dish with butter.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices: cinnamon and ground ginger.
- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until pale and fluffy.
- Add the eggs and applesauce to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined. Stir in the chopped walnuts or pecans.
Baking
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until golden-brown.
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
Frosting
- Combine the softened cream cheese, butter, confectioners sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla in a bowl, blending until smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly across the top of the cooled cake.
- Decorate with pecans if desired.
Notes
Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for proper mixing. Fresh spices are recommended to maintain flavor. Let the cake cool thoroughly before frosting to avoid melting.