Introduction:
Looking for a cozy, moist, and flavorful cake? This Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is a perfect choice for any occasion. The cake is light, tender, and infused with the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg. Paired with a creamy, tangy frosting, this cake is sure to be a hit with everyone. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to make with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry!
Overview of the Recipe:
This recipe combines the natural sweetness and moisture of applesauce with a light and fluffy cake texture. The applesauce not only acts as a sweetener but also enhances the cake’s moisture, making it delightfully tender. Topped with a cinnamon-infused cream cheese frosting, this dessert balances sweetness and spice, delivering a satisfying treat that’s perfect for afternoon tea, dessert after dinner, or a special celebration.
History and Origin:
Applesauce cake is a classic American dessert, originating from times when fresh apples weren’t as readily available year-round. In the 19th century, home cooks turned to applesauce as an alternative to fresh fruit, especially during the winter months. The cake’s simplicity made it a staple in American households. Its popularity grew, especially during the Great Depression when ingredients like butter and eggs were scarce, and applesauce provided a great substitute for both moisture and sweetness. The addition of cinnamon cream cheese frosting is a modern twist that brings a creamy, spicy finish to this timeless cake.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup applesauce (unsweetened)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
For the Cake:
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Set this mixture aside.
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This will take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add eggs: Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth and creamy mixture.
- Incorporate the applesauce and vanilla: Add 1 cup of unsweetened applesauce and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined, making sure not to overmix, which can make the cake dense.
- Pour the batter: Transfer the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula to ensure an even bake.
- Bake the cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Cool the cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
For the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Beat the cream cheese and butter: In a medium bowl, beat together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter until smooth and creamy.
- Add the powdered sugar: Gradually add 2 cups of powdered sugar, beating continuously until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Incorporate the cinnamon and vanilla: Mix in 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined.
- Frost the cake: Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the frosting generously over the top and sides of the cake. You can use an offset spatula to get an even, smooth layer of frosting.
Serving:
Cut the Applesauce Cake into 8 slices and serve immediately or store it in an airtight container for later. This cake is perfect on its own but can be paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions:
- Drinks: This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of black tea, chai, or a warm cup of coffee. The subtle spice of the cinnamon complements spiced teas or even a frothy cappuccino.
- Toppings: You could top the cake with chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture. A light drizzle of caramel sauce would also add an extra layer of sweetness.
- Side dish: Serve with fresh apple slices on the side for a refreshing contrast to the rich frosting.
Variations of the Recipe:
- Spiced Apple Cake: Add a combination of ground ginger and cloves along with the cinnamon and nutmeg to give the cake a more robust, spiced flavor.
- Walnut Applesauce Cake: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts into the cake batter for added texture and a nutty flavor.
- Vegan Applesauce Cake: Replace the eggs with flax eggs (2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 5 tablespoons of water), and use vegan butter and cream cheese in the frosting for a plant-based alternative.
- Gluten-Free Applesauce Cake: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to make the cake gluten-free without compromising on flavor.
Health Benefits:
- Applesauce: Using unsweetened applesauce reduces the need for excessive added sugar, making this cake lower in refined sugars. Applesauce is also a good source of fiber and vitamin C.
- Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg both have antioxidant properties and may help regulate blood sugar levels. Cinnamon is also known for its anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Cream Cheese: While cream cheese adds richness, it’s also a good source of calcium and protein. For a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese in the frosting.
- Butter: Though the cake uses butter, it can be swapped for plant-based or lower-fat alternatives if desired.
FAQs:
1. Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, you can make the applesauce cake up to two days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Frost the cake shortly before serving to ensure the frosting stays fresh.
2. How should I store leftover cake? Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The cream cheese frosting will hold up best if kept chilled.
3. Can I freeze the applesauce cake? Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight before frosting and serving.
4. Can I use sweetened applesauce instead of unsweetened? While sweetened applesauce can be used, it will increase the overall sugar content of the cake. If you opt for sweetened applesauce, you may want to reduce the amount of granulated sugar in the recipe.
5. What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting? If you don’t have cream cheese, you can use mascarpone or a Greek yogurt-based frosting for a tangy, lighter alternative.
Conclusion:
Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful and comforting dessert, perfect for fall gatherings or family celebrations. Its moist, spiced cake base paired with the rich, cinnamon-infused frosting makes it a favorite for both kids and adults. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make this cake a go-to for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat for the weekend or a showstopper for your next get-together, this applesauce cake is sure to satisfy your cravings!