Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a cozy, delicious dessert that balances warmth and sweetness perfectly, you’re going to adore this Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting. This cake captures all the comfort of fall in every bite—with moist, tender crumbs infused with spices and the natural sweetness of applesauce. The dreamy cinnamon cream cheese frosting takes it to another level, adding a luscious, tangy topping that complements the cake flawlessly. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, holiday treat, or simply craving something homemade and heartwarming, this recipe is bound to become a fast favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients for this Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting are wonderfully straightforward yet crucial for creating that perfect texture and flavor. Each item plays an essential role, from providing moisture and richness to adding warmth through spices and a creamy finish.

• Unsweetened Applesauce: Adds natural sweetness and keeps the cake moist without extra fat.
• All-Purpose Flour: Gives the cake its sturdy yet tender structure.
• Brown Sugar: Contributes a rich, caramel-like sweetness and helps maintain moisture.
• Baking Soda and Baking Powder: Work together to make the cake light and airy.
• Ground Cinnamon and Nutmeg: Provide warm, inviting spices that elevate the flavor complexity.
• Eggs: Bind all the ingredients and add richness to the batter.
• Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake soft and tender without heaviness.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the depth of flavor with its sweet, aromatic notes.
• Cream Cheese: Forms the creamy base of the frosting for that tangy smoothness.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to perfect spreadability.
• Butter: Adds richness and a silky texture to the frosting.
• Ground Cinnamon (for frosting): Infuses the frosting with warm spice, tying it perfectly to the cake underneath.

How to Make Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking pan. In a large mixing bowl, combine the unsweetened applesauce, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. This forms the moist base of your cake. In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, ensuring everything is well incorporated but not overmixed. This step is key to achieving a tender crumb without toughness.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

Pour the luscious batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes. You will know the cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Removing it at the right time guarantees a moist interior without any raw pockets. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before moving on to frosting – this makes spreading easier and prevents melting.

Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cake cools, whip up the frosting! Beat together the cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract until completely smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and the ground cinnamon, continuing to beat until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable. This frosting perfectly balances tangy creaminess with a warm hint of spice, making it irresistibly delicious atop the applesauce cake.

Step 4: Frost the Cake

Once your cake is cool, generously spread the cinnamon cream cheese frosting over the top using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon. For extra flair, sprinkle a little cinnamon on top or add chopped walnuts for crunch. This step transforms your simple cake into a show-stopping dessert that’s both beautiful and scrumptious.

Step 5: Serve

Slice your Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting into squares and serve it at room temperature or slightly chilled. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual afternoon tea or a festive celebration.

How to Serve Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Garnishes

A simple dusting of cinnamon or a scatter of toasted chopped walnuts adds texture and a lovely nutty aroma, complementing the sweet and tangy flavors of the frosting and cake beautifully. For a special occasion, try a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra touch of indulgence.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. If you want a refreshing balance, serve alongside spiced apple cider or a warm cup of chai tea to complement the cozy cinnamon notes.

Creative Ways to Present

For an inviting dessert platter, cut the cake into bite-sized squares and arrange them on a rustic wooden board lined with parchment paper. Add fresh apple slices and cinnamon sticks around for a beautiful autumnal theme that will impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting covered tightly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and moist for up to 4 days. Storing it chilled also preserves the creamy texture of the frosting perfectly.

Freezing

You can freeze the unfrosted cake tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then frost just before serving to maintain the frosting’s freshness and texture.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary. If you prefer a slightly warm slice, gently warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 10 seconds, but avoid heating the frosting directly to prevent it from melting.

FAQs

Can I use sweetened applesauce instead of unsweetened?

Using sweetened applesauce will add extra sugar to your cake, which may make it sweeter than intended. If you prefer, reduce the brown sugar slightly to balance the sweetness.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, making sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder to keep the cake’s structure intact.

Can I use butter instead of vegetable oil?

Butter can be used but will produce a denser cake with a different texture. Vegetable oil helps keep the cake moist and tender, so it’s recommended for the best result.

How long does the frosting keep once made?

The cream cheese frosting can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Bring it to room temperature and give it a quick stir before spreading to restore its creamy texture.

Can I make cupcakes instead of a cake?

Absolutely! Scoop the batter into lined muffin tins and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Frost once cooled, and you’ll have delightful individual treats.

Final Thoughts

This Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is pure comfort on a plate and perfect for any occasion where you want to share a little homemade happiness. Its tender texture, warm spices, and creamy frosting combine in a way that feels both indulgent and wholesome. I can’t wait for you to try it—you might just find yourself baking this beauty again and again!

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