Moist Applesauce Cake Recipe – Easy, Classic & How to Make

Looking for a moist, flavorful, and easy-to-make dessert that brings comfort and nostalgia in every bite? This applesauce cake recipe checks every box. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a cozy family gathering, or just because, this cake delivers a soft, tender crumb with warm spices and a sweet apple finish.

In this guide, you’ll find a step-by-step recipe, expert tips, and flavorful variations to suit every dietary preference. Plus, we’ll answer the most common questions people ask about applesauce cake so you can bake with confidence.

Applesauce cake has been cherished for generations. Its roots trace back to times when home cooks relied on pantry staples and natural sweeteners. Over the years, it’s evolved into a beloved dessert that’s simple yet rich in flavor. Some of the most trusted versions, like King Arthur’s classic applesauce cake and Simply Recipes’ take on applesauce spice cake, show just how versatile this cake can be.

History and Origins of Applesauce Cake

Applesauce cake became popular in the early 1900s, particularly during times when fresh ingredients were scarce. The natural sweetness and moisture of applesauce made it a perfect substitute for fats and sugars.

Originally a Depression-era dessert
Gained popularity for its affordability and simplicity
Traditional recipes used minimal ingredients but packed strong flavor

Over the years, it has remained a staple thanks to its comforting taste and nostalgic value.

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

Every component in this cake plays a specific part in achieving the ideal texture and taste:

Applesauce: Adds moisture, subtle sweetness, and replaces oil or butter
All-purpose flour: The structural base of the cake
Sugar (white or brown): Provides sweetness and richness
Eggs: Bind ingredients and create a fluffy texture
Vegetable oil or butter: Increases moisture content
Baking soda and baking powder: Leavening agents that help the cake rise
Cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves: Classic warm spices that complement the applesauce

Optional additions:

Chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
Raisins or chopped dates
Vanilla extract or a touch of orange zest

Step-by-Step Applesauce Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

2 cups applesauce (unsweetened)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1½ cups sugar (can reduce to 1 cup)
2 eggs
½ cup oil or melted butter
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp baking powder
1½ tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground nutmeg
¼ tsp ground cloves
½ tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts, raisins, or dates

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch pan.
In a large bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
Stir in the applesauce.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients.
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet until fully combined.
Fold in optional add-ins like nuts or raisins.
Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35–40 minutes.
Test with a toothpick—if it comes out clean, it’s done.
Cool before serving or adding frosting.

Variations and Customizations

Want to tailor this applesauce cake to fit your diet or preferences?

Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
Vegan: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce (1/4 cup per egg).
Healthier Version: Reduce sugar, use whole wheat flour, and add shredded carrots or zucchini.
Bundt Style: Pour into a bundt pan for a festive look.
Frosting Options:
- Cream cheese frosting
- Maple glaze
- Powdered sugar dusting

Serving Suggestions

This cake pairs beautifully with:

Freshly whipped cream
A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream
A warm cup of spiced chai or coffee

Perfect for:

Thanksgiving or holiday desserts
Afternoon snacks
Potluck parties and casual gatherings

Storage and Shelf Life

Applesauce cake stores well and often tastes better the next day.

Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days
Refrigerate for up to a week for extended freshness
Freeze slices in airtight containers for up to 3 months

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: ~250
Fat: 8g
Carbs: 40g
Sugar: 20g
Protein: 3g

Nutrition will vary based on add-ins and frosting choices. Using unsweetened applesauce and reducing sugar can make this a lighter treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time:

Overmixing the batter: Leads to a tough, dense cake
Using sweetened applesauce: May make the cake overly sweet
Underbaking: Always do the toothpick test before removing
Ignoring ingredient temperature: Use room-temperature eggs and applesauce for best results

FAQs

What does applesauce do to a cake?

Applesauce acts as a natural moistener and binder in baking. It keeps the cake soft and tender while reducing the need for added fats like oil or butter. It also adds subtle sweetness and a light apple flavor that complements warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.

**What does applesauce replace in cake mix?**

In most cake recipes, applesauce can replace:

Oil (in a 1:1 ratio)
Butter (¾ cup applesauce per 1 cup of butter)
Eggs (¼ cup applesauce per egg)

This makes it a popular ingredient in vegan baking and low-fat desserts.

**How do you make a 2 ingredient cake mix with applesauce?**

A 2-ingredient cake can be made by combining:

1 box of store-bought cake mix (any flavor)
1½ to 2 cups of unsweetened applesauce

Mix together and bake according to the box instructions. This shortcut eliminates eggs and oil, producing a surprisingly moist cake with fewer calories.

What is the secret to super moist cake?

Several tricks can make your cake super moist:

Use applesauce to add moisture without heaviness
Don’t overbake; check doneness with a toothpick
Bake with oil instead of butter for better moisture retention
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before removing
Add sour cream or yogurt to enrich texture

**Does applesauce replace eggs or oil in baking?**

Yes, applesauce can replace both:

Eggs: ¼ cup applesauce per egg
Oil: 1:1 replacement

Keep in mind that while it works great in cakes, muffins, and quick breads, it’s not ideal for cookies or pastries where structure is more critical.

What cake is the most moist?

Applesauce cake is among the most moist due to its high moisture content and dense crumb. Other notably moist cakes include:

Chocolate zucchini cake
Banana bread
Tres leches cake
Pound cake made with sour cream

**How much applesauce for 3 eggs in cake mix?**

To substitute for 3 eggs, use:

¾ cup of applesauce (¼ cup per egg)

Make sure it’s unsweetened to avoid an overly sweet cake.

**Does applesauce change the taste of cake?**

Applesauce does add a mild apple flavor, but it’s subtle and often masked by spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves. In chocolate or spice cakes, the flavor is barely noticeable.

**Can dogs have applesauce?**

Yes — dogs can eat unsweetened applesauce in small amounts. It’s best used as a treat or food topper. Avoid any versions with added sugar, cinnamon, or xylitol, which can be harmful to pets.

Conclusion

This applesauce cake recipe is more than just a nostalgic dessert — it’s a versatile, delicious, and crowd-pleasing treat that fits effortlessly into any baker’s repertoire. With its rich history, naturally moist texture, and warm, spiced flavor, it’s a cake that appeals to both tradition and modern tastes.

Whether you stick with the simple, classic version or customize it with nuts, dried fruit, or alternative ingredients, this cake offers consistent, satisfying results. It’s easy to prepare, requires common pantry staples, and is forgiving enough for beginner bakers. Try it once, and you might find yourself making it again and again — a true staple that earns its place in your recipe box.