Moist Applesauce Cake with Walnuts and Raisins: A Cozy Fall Dessert

The Best Homemade Applesauce Cake with Walnuts and Raisins

This moist and delicious applesauce cake is the perfect fall comfort dessert that combines the natural sweetness of applesauce with warm spices like cinnamon and cloves. Whether you’re looking for a special brunch treat or a cozy dessert option, this homemade cake delivers incredible flavor with every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Spiced Applesauce Cake Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a slice of warm applesauce cake on a crisp autumn day. This recipe creates a tender, moist cake that’s:

• Easy to make – simple ingredients and straightforward instructions
• Perfectly spiced – cinnamon and cloves create a cozy flavor profile
• Wonderfully moist – thanks to the applesauce in the batter
• Texture-rich – with juicy raisins and crunchy walnuts in every bite
• Versatile – enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert

Ingredients You’ll Need for Homemade Applesauce Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups unsweetened applesauce
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• 8-inch round cake pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer (or hand whisk)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Cooling rack

How to Make the Perfect Applesauce Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Thoroughly grease and flour an 8-inch cake pan to prevent sticking.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and cloves until well combined.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes on medium speed.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the applesauce. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing just until combined after each addition.
6. Gently fold in the raisins and chopped walnuts with a rubber spatula.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Expert Tips for the Best Applesauce Cake

• Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for the best texture.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until the ingredients are combined to avoid a tough cake.
• Homemade applesauce option: For an extra special cake, use homemade unsweetened applesauce if available.
• Add-in variations: Try dried cranberries instead of raisins, or pecans instead of walnuts for a different flavor profile.
• Spice adjustments: Feel free to add 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg or allspice for additional warmth.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This applesauce cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerated for up to a week. It also freezes beautifully for up to 2 months!

Serving ideas:

• Enjoy a slice warm with a dollop of whipped cream
• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert
• Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra special treat
• Pair with a cup of hot apple cider or coffee for breakfast
• Add a simple cream cheese frosting for a more decadent dessert option

Nutritional Information

Why Applesauce Cake Is Perfect for Any Occasion

From cozy family gatherings to holiday celebrations, this applesauce cake recipe is sure to impress. The natural moisture from the applesauce ensures your cake stays fresh for days, while the warm spices create that nostalgic aroma we all love during fall and winter months. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at homemade cakes for the first time, this recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to become a family favorite!

Recipe adapted from: AllRecipes Applesauce Cake