This moist and flavorful applesauce cake is spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, making it a perfect cozy dessert for any occasion. Topped with a rich cinnamon cream cheese frosting, it strikes the perfect balance between sweet, spicy, and creamy. Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering or a quiet night in, this cake is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent the cake from sticking. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. This mixture will give the cake its warm, spiced flavor.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is key to creating a soft and tender cake. Next, beat in the egg until well combined. Stir in the applesauce and vanilla extract, which will add moisture and a hint of sweetness to the cake.
3. Combine and Bake
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake. Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
4. Make the Frosting
While the cake cools, prepare the cinnamon cream cheese frosting. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy. Finally, mix in the vanilla extract and ground cinnamon, giving the frosting its delicious spiced flavor.
5. Frost and Serve
Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the cinnamon cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. For a decorative touch, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon over the frosting. Slice the cake into squares and serve. For a firmer texture, refrigerate the cake for about an hour before serving.
This spiced applesauce cake with cinnamon cream cheese frosting is the ultimate comfort dessert. The moist, tender cake paired with the rich, creamy frosting makes it irresistible. Perfect for fall or any time you’re craving a cozy, spiced treat! Enjoy!