Moist Old-Fashioned Applesauce Cake

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Moist Old-Fashioned Applesauce Cake is one of those nostalgic bakes that feels like a warm hug. This cozy, spiced dessert is rich with the natural sweetness of applesauce, kissed with cinnamon and nutmeg, and incredibly soft thanks to oil and buttermilk. It’s the kind of treat you can enjoy plain with a hot mug of coffee or dressed up with a cream cheese glaze for special occasions.

This cake has been passed down through generations and is just as welcome at a family holiday table as it is on a rainy afternoon at home. The applesauce gives it moisture and flavor without the need for fancy ingredients, and the deep molasses-like undertones make it a favorite for those who crave that old-fashioned flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Moist Old-Fashioned Applesauce Cake

This cake is not only rich in flavor but also incredibly easy to make. You don’t need a mixer, and you likely have most of the ingredients in your pantry. It stays moist for days, making it a great make-ahead dessert, and it’s super versatile. Enjoy it warm, cold, frosted, or plain—it never disappoints.

The comforting spice blend, balanced sweetness, and fluffy texture make it a hit for all ages. Whether you’re serving it at brunch, wrapping it up as a gift, or enjoying a slice as a midnight snack, this cake always hits the spot.

What Kind of Applesauce Works Best in Applesauce Cake?

Unsweetened applesauce is your best bet for this recipe. It gives you full control over the sweetness and allows the spices and molasses to shine. If you only have sweetened applesauce, you can still use it, but reduce the sugar in the batter slightly. Homemade applesauce is also a wonderful option if you have some on hand—especially one with chunks for added texture.

Ingredients for the Moist Old-Fashioned Applesauce Cake

To create this timeless cake, you only need simple pantry staples. Each ingredient plays a part in building the rich, moist, warmly spiced cake we all love.

• Applesauce: The heart of the cake. Provides natural moisture and flavor.
• All-purpose flour: Forms the base and structure.
• Brown sugar: Adds sweetness with depth and a hint of molasses.
• Granulated sugar: Enhances sweetness and balances moisture.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake ultra-moist.
• Buttermilk: Adds tanginess and helps with tender texture.
• Eggs: Bind everything together.
• Baking soda: Lifts and lightens the crumb.
• Cinnamon: Gives that classic cozy spice.
• Nutmeg: Adds a hint of warmth and complexity.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness.
• Vanilla extract: Deepens the overall flavor.

How To Make the Moist Old-Fashioned Applesauce Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the applesauce, vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and combined.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, stir together the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

Step 4: Combine and Stir

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan before slicing. Serve as is, or top with cream cheese frosting or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Serving and Storing Your Applesauce Cake

This cake serves about 12 generous portions, making it ideal for gatherings or meal-prepped snacks throughout the week. Once baked and cooled, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate to extend freshness for up to a week.

If you’d like to freeze it, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to eat, let a slice thaw at room temperature or gently reheat in the microwave for a warm treat.

What to Serve With Moist Old-Fashioned Applesauce Cake?

Hot Tea or Chai Latte

The spices in the cake pair beautifully with the warm, fragrant notes of chai or a cozy black tea.

Cream Cheese Frosting

Add a thick, tangy layer of cream cheese frosting to turn this into a decadent dessert.

Vanilla Ice Cream

A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts right into the warm crumb for a delightful contrast.

Caramel Sauce Drizzle

For extra indulgence, drizzle warm caramel over each slice.

Fresh Apple Slices

Serve with crisp apple slices to play up the fruity elements.

Cinnamon Whipped Cream

Make lightly sweetened whipped cream with a hint of cinnamon for a fluffy, spiced topping.

Walnut or Pecan Crumble

Add crunch by topping slices with toasted nuts.

Maple Syrup

Drizzle a bit of maple syrup over the top if you’re enjoying this cake for breakfast.

Want More Cake Ideas with Old-Fashioned Charm?

If you enjoy this classic applesauce cake, try some of these other comforting and flavorful options:

• Southern Hummingbird Cake with banana and pineapple richness.
• Hot Fudge Brownie Bread for a gooey chocolate experience.
• Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread with swirls of nutty chocolate.
• Small Batch Pistachio Cream Cinnamon Rolls for when you crave spice in a soft roll.
• Rhubarb Shortbread Bars if you’re into fruity and buttery layers.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add raisins, nuts, or maybe a caramel glaze? Did you try baking it in a bundt pan instead of a sheet?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

This Moist Old-Fashioned Applesauce Cake is the kind of timeless dessert that always brings joy. It’s simple to make, filled with nostalgic flavor, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you serve it warm with a dollop of cream or enjoy it straight from the pan, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a cozy kitchen staple.

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