Grandma’s Applesauce Cake – Easy Moist Spiced Cake Recipe

Name: Grandma’s Applesauce Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour1 1/2 cups granulated sugar1 teaspoon baking soda1 teaspoon cinnamon1/2 teaspoon nutmeg1/2 teaspoon cloves1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted1 cup applesauce2 large eggs

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Nicole Barrett

Published:

20/10/2025

Updated:

20/10/2025

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Grandma’s Applesauce Cake is a timeless favorite packed with cozy spices, moist applesauce, and a soft, tender crumb. This old-fashioned cake is an easy, one-bowl delight that brings warmth and nostalgia to every bite. With cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, it’s perfect for fall or any time you crave homemade comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Cake

Moist and Tender – Applesauce makes the crumb soft and keeps the cake moist for days.
Warm Spice Flavor – Classic spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves add irresistible autumn flavor.
Simple Ingredients – Everything you need is probably in your pantry—no fancy steps or unusual tools required.
Versatile & Crowd-Pleasing – A hit at gatherings, holidays, or as a comforting weeknight dessert.
Optional Frosting – Easily served plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with your favorite creamy glaze.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon cloves
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup applesauce
2 large eggs

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch pan or preferred cake pan.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
In another bowl, combine the melted butter, applesauce, and eggs. Mix well until smooth.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cool completely before slicing, dusting with powdered sugar, or frosting as desired.

Storage & Freezing Instructions

Store cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Freeze individual slices, wrapped tightly, for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature for best texture.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Serve plain, dusted with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar, or topped with cream cheese frosting.
Enjoy alongside black tea, spiced cider, or hot coffee for the perfect snack or dessert.

Pro Tips for Perfect Applesauce Cake

Use unsweetened applesauce for balanced sweetness and flavor.
Don’t overmix—just stir until ingredients are combined for a tender crumb.
Allow the cake to cool fully before cutting for cleaner slices.
Add chopped walnuts or raisins for extra texture and flavor if you like.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Applesauce Cake is the ultimate classic comfort dessert—warmly spiced, delightfully moist, and easy to make. Whether served plain or with a scoop of frosting, this cake is sure to become a family tradition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use sweetened applesauce? Yes, but reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet cake.
Can I make it gluten free? Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
How do I know if it’s done? The cake should spring back lightly—a toothpick should come out clean.
Can I add mix-ins? Yes! Stir in raisins, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries as desired.