If you adore cozy, warmly spiced desserts that feel like a comforting hug, you are going to fall head over heels for this Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. Moist and tender, this cake beautifully balances the natural sweetness of applesauce with aromatic cinnamon and a luscious cream cheese frosting that takes it straight to dessert heaven. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or simply craving a slice with your afternoon tea, this recipe promises a delightful experience with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is all it takes to create this show-stopping cake. Each component plays a special role, from the applesauce adding moisture and a tender crumb, to the cinnamon and nutmeg infusing the cake with warmth and spice.
- Applesauce (1 1/2 cups, unsweetened): Adds natural sweetness and keeps the cake perfectly moist without extra fat.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): Forms the structure; ensures a soft and tender crumb.
- Baking powder (1 1/2 teaspoons): Gives the cake the right rise and fluffiness.
- Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Works with the acidic applesauce to lighten the texture.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances flavor balance so nothing tastes flat.
- Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons): Brings that signature warm spice and comforting aroma.
- Ground nutmeg (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Adds subtle depth and complexity to the spice mix.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Gives richness and buttery softness to the cake.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the batter just right for balanced flavor.
- Large eggs (2): Bind everything together and contribute to the cake’s tender texture.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds sweet floral notes and enhances the spices.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Ensures a smooth batter and moist crumb.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Key to the frosting’s creamy tang and luscious texture.
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup, softened): Creates a rich and smooth frosting base.
- Powdered sugar (2 cups): Sweetens and thickens the frosting to perfect spreadability.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Gives the frosting that irresistible cinnamon kick.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Deepens the frosting flavor for ultimate indulgence.
- Milk (2-3 tablespoons): Adjusts frosting consistency until it’s just right for spreading.
How to Make Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure your cake releases easily after baking. Next, whisk together the dry ingredients — flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg— in a medium bowl. This mixture will give your cake body and that welcomed burst of spice.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about three minutes. This step is crucial because it incorporates air that will make your cake tender and soft. Then add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, and stir in the vanilla extract for a sweet fragrant base.
Step 3: Combine All Ingredients
Alternately add the dry ingredients with the applesauce and milk to the creamed mixture, beginning and ending with the flour blend. Be gentle here—mix until just combined to keep the cake tender rather than dense. The applesauce adds moisture and subtle sweetness, while the milk ensures the batter is silky smooth.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Pop it into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The sweet aroma filling your kitchen will tell you you’re on the right track. Once baked, let the cake cool for about 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Step 5: Make the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cake cools, whip up the dreamy frosting. Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Beat until fluffy and light. If the frosting feels too thick, mix in milk a tablespoon at a time until you achieve the perfect spreading consistency. This frosting really is the crown jewel that elevates the entire cake.
Step 6: Frost the Cake
Spread the cinnamon cream cheese frosting generously over the cooled cake with a spatula. Make sure the entire surface is covered in that creamy frosting, sealing in moisture and layering in even more cinnamon flavor. Your Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is now ready to delight every slice lover!
How to Serve Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of chopped toasted walnuts or pecans on top adds a delightfully crunchy contrast to the soft cake and creamy frosting. Fresh apple slices or a light dusting of cinnamon powder also make charming and tasty finishing touches that highlight the cake’s flavors.
Side Dishes
Pair this rich and spiced cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to create the ultimate dessert experience. A warm cup of chai tea or coffee brings out the warm cinnamon notes perfectly if you’re serving it as an afternoon treat or after dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
For an extra-special presentation, cut the cake into small squares and serve them on decorative plates with a drizzle of caramel sauce. You could even turn the cake into mini trifles layered with additional applesauce and cinnamon cream cheese frosting in clear glasses for a crowd-pleasing twist on the original recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep it moist and fresh. It will stay delicious for about 3 to 4 days when stored properly in the refrigerator, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for busy days.
Freezing
You can freeze the cake either frosted or unfrosted. If freezing unfrosted, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw in the refrigerator before frosting. If freezing after frosting, it’s best to freeze in individual slices to avoid damaging the delicate frosting when thawing.
Reheating
For a cozy treat, warm slices gently in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds, which will make the cake soft and bring the frosting to a slightly gooey, irresistible state. Be careful not to overheat, or the cream cheese frosting might melt away too much.
FAQs
Can I use sweetened applesauce instead of unsweetened?
Yes, you can, but since this recipe already uses sugar, sweetened applesauce might make the cake sweeter than intended. You may want to reduce the granulated sugar slightly to keep the flavors balanced.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that measures cup-for-cup, and make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free to keep the texture and taste delightful.
Can I use yogurt instead of applesauce?
Yogurt can add moisture, but it won’t provide the same natural sweetness or flavor that applesauce brings. If you try it, consider adding a bit more sugar and tweak spices to maintain that perfect balance.
How long does the frosting last once made?
The cinnamon cream cheese frosting stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week when stored in an airtight container. Always bring it to room temperature and give it a quick whip before using if it’s been chilled.
Can I make this cake into cupcakes?
Yes, this batter works wonderfully for cupcakes. Fill liners about two-thirds full and bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes. Cool completely before frosting with the cinnamon cream cheese frosting for adorable individual treats.
Final Thoughts
This Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of warmth, comfort, and the simple pleasures of home baking. I truly encourage you to give it a try—it’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm, welcoming kitchen hug every time you serve it. Happy baking!
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Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is a moist and flavorful dessert perfect for fall or any time you crave a spiced treat. The cake features warm cinnamon and nutmeg spices combined with applesauce for natural sweetness and moisture, topped with a rich, creamy cinnamon-infused cream cheese frosting.
Ingredients
For the Applesauce Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups applesauce (unsweetened)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
For the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons milk (for desired frosting consistency)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. This creates a creamy base for the cake batter.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition to incorporate air and create a smooth batter. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with applesauce and milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined to avoid overmixing which can cause a dense cake.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and smooth the surface with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is cooked through.
- Cool the Cake: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to set, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
- Make the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Powdered Sugar and Flavorings: Gradually beat in powdered sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract until the frosting becomes smooth and fluffy.
- Adjust Frosting Consistency: If the frosting is too thick to spread easily, add milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired spreading consistency.
- Frost the Cake: Once the cake is fully cooled, spread the cinnamon cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using a spatula, covering it completely.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice the cake into squares or rectangles. For best flavor and texture, chill the frosted cake for a little while so the frosting sets before serving.
Notes
- For a nutty twist, consider adding 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
- This cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen without frosting for up to 2 months.
- Ensure the cake is completely cool before frosting to prevent frosting from melting.
- You can substitute whole milk with almond milk or other dairy-free milk to make it lactose-free.
