Name: Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground ginger; 1 stick (8 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 1 1/2 cups applesauce; 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped; 5 oz cream cheese, softened; 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup confectioners’ sugar (powdered sugar); 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for a dessert that feels like a warm hug in every bite, then you absolutely must try this Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting. This cake combines the natural sweetness and moistness of applesauce with just the right touch of cozy spices, all topped with a luscious, creamy frosting that’s kissed with cinnamon. It’s a delightful treat that’s simple to make, wonderfully flavorful, and perfect for any occasion where you want to impress with homey charm and irresistible taste.

Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward staples, each chosen to bring out the best in flavor, texture, and aroma. From the soft spices that give that autumnal warmth to the creamy frosting that balances sweetness with a hint of tang, every element plays a crucial role in crafting this delicious cake.

2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives the cake structure and a tender crumb.
1/2 tsp baking soda: Helps the cake rise just right for a light texture.
2 tsp baking powder: Works alongside baking soda for a fluffy and soft cake.
1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
1 tsp cinnamon: Adds that iconic warm spice flavor essential for this cake.
1/2 tsp ground ginger: Gives a subtle zing that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
1 stick unsalted butter (softened): Provides richness and moisture for a sumptuous cake.
1 cup brown sugar: Adds deep, caramel-like sweetness and keeps the cake moist.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Elevates all the flavors with its sweet, fragrant notes.
2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake’s tender crumb.
1 1/2 cups applesauce: The star ingredient, lending natural moisture and subtle fruity sweetness.
1/2 cup walnuts or pecans (chopped): Offers delightful crunch and nutty flavor contrast.
5 oz cream cheese (softened): Central to the cinnamon cream cheese frosting’s creamy tanginess.
3 tbsp unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and smooth texture to the frosting.
1/4 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses the frosting with gentle sweetness and depth.
1 cup confectioners sugar: Sweetens the frosting and helps create its signature smoothness.
1/2 tsp cinnamon: Sprinkles cozy warmth into the frosting, tying it all together.

How to Make Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare and Preheat

First things first, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and position the rack in the middle. This ensures your cake bakes evenly. Grease a square 8 or 9 inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking and give the cake a beautiful finish when it’s time to serve.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and ground ginger. This dry mix is the foundation of your flavorful cake and even distribution of spices here means every bite tastes just right.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Grab a large bowl and use an electric mixer to beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture turns pale and fluffy—usually about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is critical because it creates air pockets that make your cake wonderfully light.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Applesauce

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in the applesauce. The applesauce not only adds moisture but also keeps the cake tender without needing extra oil or butter.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually blend in the whisked dry ingredients, mixing just until everything comes together. Overmixing can make the cake tough, so stop once there are no streaks of flour left. Stir in the walnuts or pecans last to evenly distribute their crunchy texture.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top gently with a spatula. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until the top turns a warm, golden brown and a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean. Patience here rewards you with a perfectly baked cake. Let it cool completely before moving on.

Step 7: Make the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, butter, confectioners sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer to blend until smooth and creamy. If the frosting feels too thick to spread, add a splash of milk, a teaspoon at a time, just until it’s nicely spreadable.

Step 8: Frost and Decorate

Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake with a spatula, creating an inviting layer of creamy cinnamon goodness. For a final touch, sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top to add even more texture and a beautiful finish.

How to Serve Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Garnishes

To elevate the presentation and add some extra flair, decorate with toasted pecans or walnuts, a dusting of ground cinnamon, or even some thin apple slices arranged artfully on top. These simple touches not only look stunning but also introduce varied textures and flavors that delight the senses.

Side Dishes

This cake shines wonderfully when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of softly whipped cream. For a more autumn-inspired spread, serving alongside warm spiced tea or a cup of rich coffee complements the cake’s cozy flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests or create a dessert centerpiece, cut the cake into small squares and serve on a pretty platter with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and cinnamon on top. Alternatively, turn it into a layered dessert by slicing the cake horizontally and frosting between layers before frosting the top. This Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting can truly be dressed up or down with ease.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once frosted, store any leftover Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cake stays moist and the frosting holds firm, making it last up to four days while maintaining its fresh, delicious taste.

Freezing

You can freeze the unfrosted cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then prepare the frosting fresh and spread it on before serving for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

If you prefer your cake slightly warm, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds. Avoid reheating the entire cake to keep the frosting stable. A warm slice paired with a chilled frosting bite is absolutely heavenly.

FAQs

Can I use homemade applesauce for this cake?

Absolutely! Homemade applesauce adds a lovely fresh flavor and can be customized for sweetness and texture, making your Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting even more special.

What if I don’t have walnuts or pecans?

No worries at all. You can leave out the nuts or substitute them with other favorites like sliced almonds or even raisins for a different twist in texture and flavor.

Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free butter and cream cheese alternatives to create the frosting, and the rest of the recipe remains the same. It’s a wonderful option for those with dietary restrictions.

How can I tell when the cake is fully baked?

The best way is by inserting a wooden pick in the center. If it comes out clean or with just a couple of moist crumbs, your cake is perfectly baked and ready to cool before frosting.

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

You can prepare the cinnamon cream cheese frosting a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature and give it a quick whip before spreading to restore its silky texture.

Final Thoughts

Every time I make this Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting, it feels like sharing a bit of warmth and sweetness with loved ones. Its perfect blend of moist, spiced cake and luscious frosting never fails to bring smiles around the table. I can’t wait for you to try it and create your own memories with this charming dessert that’s as comforting as it is delicious.

Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 7 reviews

Author: Aiden
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 9 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is a moist, warmly spiced dessert perfect for fall or any cozy occasion. Blending the natural sweetness of applesauce with aromatic cinnamon and ground ginger, this cake is topped with a smooth, tangy cream cheese frosting infused with cinnamon. Chopped nuts add a delightful crunch, making it a perfect balance of texture and flavor.

Instructions

Preheat oven and prepare pan: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and position the rack in the center. Butter an 8 or 9-inch square baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and ground ginger until evenly combined to ensure flavor distribution.
Cream butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is pale and fluffy—this usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes.
Add eggs and applesauce: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the applesauce until fully incorporated. At low speed, gradually add the dry flour mixture and beat just until combined; avoid overmixing. Fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans gently using a spatula.
Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until the cake turns golden brown and a wooden toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Prepare the frosting: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, confectioners’ sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. If the frosting is too thick to spread, add a small amount of milk by the teaspoon until the desired consistency is reached.
Frost and decorate: Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the cinnamon cream cheese frosting evenly on top. For an elegant touch, decorate the frosted cake with additional chopped pecans or walnuts.

Notes

Make sure the cake is fully cooled before frosting to prevent melting or sliding of the cream cheese frosting.
You can substitute applesauce with unsweetened homemade or store-bought varieties for best flavor.
For a nut-free version, omit the walnuts or pecans or replace with seeds like pumpkin seeds.
To enhance spice flavor, feel free to increase cinnamon to 1 1/2 teaspoons and ginger to 3/4 teaspoon based on preference.
Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American