Description
A moist, spiced cake made with applesauce, cinnamon, nutmeg, and warm spices. Dairy-free and alcohol-free, this tender baked treat pairs perfectly with tangy cream cheese frosting for a cozy, nostalgic dessert.
Ingredients
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
3/4 tsp salt
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground ginger
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground allspice
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 cups unsweetened applesauce
1/2 cup canola oil
1/2 cup unsalted cream cheese, softened
1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three 8″ round or two 9″ round cake pans
In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice
In another bowl, mix sugar, eggs, applesauce, oil, and lemon juice until smooth
Gradually stir wet ingredients into dry ingredients until well combined
Divide batter between prepared pans and bake until toothpick comes out clean (30-40 minutes)
Let cool completely before frosting
For frosting: Beat cream cheese until smooth, then fold in 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (if using) and additional lemon juice to taste
Notes
For gluten-free version: Substitute 2 1/4 cups gluten-free flour blend
Store in airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate up to 5 days
Frosting keeps separately for up to 2 days in refrigerator
Add 1/4 cup maple syrup for extra moisture or 1 cup chopped walnuts for texture
- Prep Time: 30
- Cook Time: 40
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg