If you’re searching for a cozy, nostalgic dessert that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, look no further than Grandma’s Applesauce Cake Recipe. This classic cake captures the perfect balance of moistness, sweet spices, and the natural goodness of applesauce, making it a timeless favorite that tastes like it was baked just for you. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe brings simple ingredients together in a way that’s sure to delight anyone lucky enough to have a slice.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this cake plays a crucial role in achieving the soft, flavorful texture and inviting aroma that makes Grandma’s Applesauce Cake Recipe so special. These basics come together effortlessly, each adding a touch to the overall taste, texture, or color that you’ll adore.
- Unsweetened applesauce (1 ½ cups): Adds moisture and natural sweetness, forming the cake’s tender base.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the cake and helps with its golden crumb.
- Large eggs (2): Provide structure and richness to the batter.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): The foundation that holds the cake together with the right density.
- Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Leavens the cake, ensuring it rises perfectly.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Infuses the cake with its signature warm spice.
- Ground nutmeg (½ teaspoon): Adds depth and a subtle nutty note.
- Ground cloves (¼ teaspoon, optional): Boosts the spice complexity, but is optional for a gentler flavor.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the sweetness.
- Unsalted butter, softened (½ cup): Provides richness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Brings a fragrant sweetness that rounds out the flavors.
- Buttermilk (½ cup, or regular milk): Keeps the cake moist and tender with a slight tang.
- Chopped walnuts or raisins (½ cup, optional): Add delightful texture and extra bursts of flavor.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup), milk (2 tablespoons), vanilla extract (½ teaspoon): For the optional glaze to add a sweet, glossy finish.
How to Make Grandma’s Applesauce Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper. This step ensures your cake comes out cleanly and with a beautifully crisp edge where the pan touches.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the unsweetened applesauce, granulated sugar, and softened butter until everything becomes smooth and luscious. Then add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until completely combined. This creates a flavorful, silky base for the cake.
Step 3: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk all the dry ingredients—flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, optional cloves, and salt. This step helps distribute the leavening and spices evenly, so every bite bursts with flavor.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures Alternating with Buttermilk
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk—start and end with the dry. Stir everything together gently just until combined. Overmixing can toughen the cake, so stop when the batter comes together.
Step 5: Fold in Optional Mix-ins
If you like a little extra texture or surprise in your cake, now is the time to gently fold in chopped walnuts or raisins. They add delightful crunch or bursts of sweetness without overwhelming the tender crumb.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared dish, smoothing the top for a uniform bake. Pop it into your preheated oven and let it bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Use a toothpick inserted into the center to check doneness—it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to finish cooling completely.
Step 7: Optional Glazing
For an extra touch of sweetness and a shiny finish, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create a smooth glaze. Drizzle it over the cooled cake for a lovely presentation and a little added zing with every bite.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Slice your Grandma’s Applesauce Cake Recipe and serve it plain or with a dollop of whipped cream. It’s an inviting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion and sure to bring smiles all around.
How to Serve Grandma’s Applesauce Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Keep it simple by dusting the cake with powdered sugar or elevating it with a swirl of whipped cream. For a fresh touch, consider adding sliced apples or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. These small garnishes make the cake feel festive and special.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making it a perfect afternoon treat. For a more indulgent experience, serve it alongside vanilla ice cream or a scoop of custard—these creamy companions take the cozy flavors of the cake to new heights.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re bringing Grandma’s Applesauce Cake Recipe to a party or gathering, you can turn it into delightful individual servings by cutting it into squares and placing each piece into decorative cupcake liners. Alternatively, layer slices with whipped cream and fresh fruit to craft a simple trifle that showcases the cake’s tender crumb and spice.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover cake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This way, it maintains its moist texture and yummy flavor without drying out.
Freezing
Grandma’s Applesauce Cake Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices well in plastic wrap and then foil or place in freezer-safe bags. Frozen cake stays good for up to two months. When you’re ready, just thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To refresh the cake, warm slices in a microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds or briefly in a low oven. This restores some of that freshly baked warmth and soft texture, especially delightful when served with a scoop of ice cream or cream.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Absolutely! If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, regular milk works just fine. To mimic the tanginess of buttermilk, you can add a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar to the milk and let it sit for a few minutes before mixing.
Is it necessary to add the ground cloves?
The ground cloves are optional. They lend a lovely depth and warm spice, but if you prefer a milder flavor, feel free to leave them out. The cake will still taste amazing with just cinnamon and nutmeg.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend designed for one-to-one replacement. Make sure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binding agent for the best texture.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The best way is to insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs clinging to it, your cake is perfectly baked and ready to come out of the oven.
Can I use this recipe to make cupcakes instead of a cake?
Certainly! Divide the batter evenly into lined muffin tins and bake at the same temperature for about 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cupcakes are a fun, portable way to enjoy Grandma’s Applesauce Cake Recipe.
Final Thoughts
Grandma’s Applesauce Cake Recipe isn’t just a dessert; it’s a comforting memory in every bite. With its tender crumb, gently spiced flavor, and easy-to-follow steps, it’s a recipe worth keeping close. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or yourself, this cake brings joy, nostalgia, and warmth that’s impossible to resist. Give it a try and watch it become your new favorite tradition.
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Grandma’s Applesauce Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Grandma’s Applesauce Cake is a moist and flavorful cake that combines the natural sweetness of applesauce with warm spices and a tender crumb. This classic recipe features a soft texture with optional additions of walnuts or raisins for a delightful bite. Finished with a simple powdered sugar glaze, it’s perfect for an afternoon treat or dessert.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups unsweetened applesauce
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup buttermilk (or regular milk)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or raisins (optional)
Glaze Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat the applesauce, granulated sugar, and softened butter together until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and beat until well incorporated.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves (if using), and salt.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
- Add mix-ins (optional): Gently fold in the chopped walnuts or raisins, if using.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before transferring to cool completely on the wire rack.
- Make the glaze (optional): In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to form a smooth glaze. Drizzle the glaze evenly over the cooled cake.
- Serve: Slice the cake and serve as is or with a dollop of whipped cream. Enjoy your moist and flavorful applesauce cake!
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with a plant-based margarine and use almond or soy milk for both buttermilk and glaze.
- Adding chopped nuts or raisins is optional but adds great texture and flavor.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter to maintain a tender crumb.
- Store leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Glaze is optional, but it adds a lovely sweet finishing touch.
