Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting 🍰🍎

There’s something magical about the aroma of apples and cinnamon wafting through my kitchen, instantly transporting me back to cozy family gatherings. If I close my eyes, I can almost hear the laughter of my kids as they eagerly wait for a slice of this delightful Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting. Baking this cake is a cherished tradition in my home, a recipe that’s been lovingly passed down through generations, each slice a testament to the warmth and comfort of home-cooked goodness. It’s a cake that not only satisfies a sweet craving but also brings my family together, sharing stories and making memories over every bite. Let me walk you through this comforting recipe, so you can bring a slice of that same warmth into your own home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy and Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, this cake fits perfectly into your busy schedule, allowing you to create a homemade dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.
Family-Friendly Ingredients: This recipe uses everyday ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, like flour, eggs, and applesauce, ensuring it’s both accessible and budget-friendly.
Comfort Food Delight: The combination of warm spices and creamy frosting creates a comforting dessert that feels like a hug in every bite, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Versatile Treat: Serve it as a dessert, a sweet afternoon snack, or even a special breakfast treat with your morning coffee — it’s delicious at any time of day.
Nutritious Elements: With unsweetened applesauce as a key ingredient, this cake offers a touch of wholesome nutrition, making it a slightly healthier choice for satisfying your sweet tooth.

The Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 1/2 cups unsweetened applesauce
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Frosting:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1-2 tablespoons milk (optional, for desired consistency)

Directions:

Make the Cake:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the applesauce, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.

Make the Frosting:
1. In a large bowl, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla, beating until creamy. If the frosting is too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
3. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Slice and serve.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Calories: 320 kcal | Servings: 12 slices

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

A delicious plate of Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting 🍰🍎

Mixing Bowls: One medium and one large for dry and wet ingredients.
Electric Mixer: Helpful for creaming butter and sugar and mixing the frosting.
9×13-inch Baking Pan: Perfect size for this cake.
Whisk: To evenly combine dry ingredients.
Spatula: For spreading the frosting smoothly.

The Benefits of Each Ingredient

All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of our cake, providing structure and texture.
Applesauce: Adds moisture and natural sweetness, reducing the need for additional fats.
Cinnamon, Nutmeg, and Cloves: These spices infuse the cake with warm, festive flavors.
Cream Cheese: The star of our frosting, offering a tangy, creamy contrast to the sweet cake.
Unsalted Butter: Ensures we control the saltiness, enhancing the cake’s rich flavor.

What to Serve With This Dish

For a complete family-friendly dessert spread, consider pairing this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A warm cup of spiced apple cider or a classic mug of hot chocolate can elevate the comforting experience even further, making it perfect for cozy gatherings.

Storage & Leftover Tips

To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you’re planning to enjoy it over a week, consider freezing individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to three months. Simply thaw at room temperature before serving, and it’ll taste just as delightful as when fresh.

With this Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting, you’re not just baking a dessert; you’re creating an opportunity for family bonding and cherished memories. I hope this recipe brings as much joy and warmth to your home as it does to mine. Remember, the heart of cooking is sharing, so enjoy this treat with loved ones and let the magic of home-cooked comfort fill your hearts and homes.

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