Applesauce Cake

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Description:
This moist and flavorful applesauce cake is a comforting dessert perfect for any occasion. Made with simple ingredients like applesauce, cinnamon, and nutmeg, it has a tender crumb and a warm, spiced flavor. It’s an easy, no-fuss cake that’s perfect for fall but can be enjoyed year-round.

Origin:
The applesauce cake is a traditional American dessert, often baked during the fall season when apples are abundant. It’s known for being easy to make and for its soft, spiced flavor that pairs well with coffee or tea. The use of applesauce makes the cake moist without needing much fat, which makes it a lighter option.

Ingredients:

For the cake:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 cup applesauce (unsweetened or sweetened, as preferred)
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup vegetable oil (or applesauce for a lighter option)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup chopped walnuts or raisins (optional)

Optional frosting or glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1-2 tablespoons milk (or cream)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    OR
  • Cream cheese frosting (for a richer option)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the cake batter:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×9-inch square baking pan or an 8-inch round cake pan.
    • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
    • In a separate large bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, applesauce, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth.
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix. If using walnuts or raisins, fold them into the batter at this stage.
  2. Bake the cake:
    • Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly.
    • Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
    • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  3. Prepare the optional glaze (or frosting):
    • For a simple glaze, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake.
    • Alternatively, you can frost the cake with cream cheese frosting for a richer flavor.
  4. Serve:
    • Once cooled and frosted (if desired), slice and serve. Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee!

Tips for Success:

  • Applesauce choice: If you’re using unsweetened applesauce, you may want to increase the amount of sugar slightly. You can also add a bit more cinnamon or nutmeg for a spicier flavor.
  • Texture variation: If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can add chopped apples in addition to (or instead of) the raisins or walnuts.
  • Baking time: Baking times may vary depending on the pan size, so start checking the cake at 30 minutes.

Recommendations:

  • This cake is delicious on its own, but adding a simple glaze or frosting can elevate the flavor.
  • Pair it with a hot beverage, like a chai latte or cinnamon tea, to enhance the warm spices in the cake.
  • You can store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate it for longer shelf life.

Nutrition (per serving):
Note: The nutrition values are approximate and will vary depending on specific brands and substitutions.

  • Calories: 200-250 kcal
  • Fat: 10-12g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Sodium: 150mg

Enjoy this deliciously spiced and moist Applesauce Cake! It’s perfect for any occasion, offering a cozy, comforting flavor that’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.

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