Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Recipe By:

Natalia

Posted:

September 12, 2025

Updated:

September 12, 2025

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Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect dessert for any occasion. This moist, spiced cake captures the essence of fall with its warm flavors and creamy frosting. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this cake offers delightful sweetness and comfort. With its easy preparation, you’ll find it an inviting addition to your recipe repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Moist Texture: The unsweetened applesauce keeps the cake incredibly moist and tender.
Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for bakers of any level.
Versatile Flavor: The warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg create a comforting flavor that pairs well with any occasion.
Creamy Frosting: The rich cinnamon cream cheese frosting elevates the cake’s flavor, making each bite indulgent.
Perfect for Sharing: With 12 servings, this cake is ideal for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking your Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk
Rubber spatula
9×13-inch baking pan
Electric mixer (for frosting)

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
Electric mixer: Makes whipping the frosting quick and easy.

Ingredients

For the Cake

Unsweetened Applesauce: Adds moisture and natural sweetness.
All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure to the cake.
Brown Sugar: Adds a deeper sweetness and keeps the cake moist.
Baking Soda and Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
Ground Cinnamon and Nutmeg: Adds warmth and spice to the cake.
Eggs: Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake soft and tender.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor.

For the Frosting

Cream Cheese: Forms the base of the frosting.
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
Butter: Adds creaminess to the frosting.
Ground Cinnamon (for frosting): Adds a warm, spiced flavor to the frosting.

How to Make Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, mix together:
Unsweetened Applesauce
Brown Sugar
Vegetable Oil
Eggs
Vanilla Extract
In another bowl, combine:
All-Purpose Flour
Baking Soda
Baking Powder
Ground Cinnamon
Nutmeg
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into your wet mixture until just combined.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

Pour your batter into the prepared baking pan evenly.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Once done, remove from oven and let it cool completely in the pan.

Step 3: Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together:
Cream Cheese
Butter
Vanilla Extract
Gradually add in:
Powdered Sugar
Ground Cinnamon
Beat until fluffy and smooth.

Step 4: Frost the Cake

Once cooled, spread your cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of your cake using a spatula.
Garnish with extra ground cinnamon or chopped walnuts if desired.

Step 5: Serve

Slice into squares for serving.
Enjoy at room temperature or slightly chilled!

How to Serve Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s for a cozy family gathering or a festive celebration, here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

Slice and Serve

Plain Slices: Serve the cake as it is for a simple yet satisfying dessert.
With Ice Cream: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for extra creaminess.
With Fresh Fruit: Pair slices with sliced apples or pears to complement the flavors.

Garnish Ideas

Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and flavor.
Cinnamon Sprinkle: Dust the top with extra ground cinnamon for a warm aroma.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over each slice for a sweet touch.

Beverage Pairings

Coffee or Tea: Enjoy the cake with a cup of coffee or herbal tea for a comforting treat.
Apple Cider: Serve warm apple cider alongside the cake for a seasonal delight.

How to Perfect Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

To make your Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting even better, consider these helpful tips.

Bold Flavor Boost: Use high-quality vanilla extract to enhance the overall taste of the cake and frosting.
Bold Moisture Tips: Ensure your applesauce is unsweetened to maintain balance between sweetness and moisture.
Bold Baking Check: Always check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when fully baked.
Bold Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and ensure better frosting adherence.
Bold Storage Tips: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Pairing side dishes with your Applesauce Cake can enhance its flavor profile. Here are some delicious options to consider.

Spiced Chai Latte: This warming beverage complements the spices in the cake perfectly.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the spiced flavors of the cake.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The creaminess adds texture contrast and balances the sweetness of the dessert.
Cranberry Relish: The tartness of cranberry relish cuts through the richness of the cake nicely.
Grilled Sausages: A savory option that provides a hearty contrast to your sweet dessert.
Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with vinaigrette can cleanse your palate after enjoying this rich cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting can be simple, but there are common mistakes to watch out for. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly.

Using Sweetened Applesauce: This can make your cake overly sweet. Always opt for unsweetened applesauce for the best flavor balance.
Skipping the Cooling Step: Frosting a warm cake can cause the frosting to melt and slide off. Allow your cake to cool completely before frosting.
Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Incorrect measurements can ruin the texture of your cake. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
Overmixing the Batter: This can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
Neglecting to Preheat the Oven: Baking in an unheated oven can affect rising. Always preheat your oven before baking.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
The cake stays good for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat slices for about 10 minutes until warm.
Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 15-20 seconds—watch closely not to overheat.
Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering it with a lid, and warm each slice briefly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it includes xanthan gum for structure.

What is the best way to add nuts to my Applesauce Cake?

Chop walnuts or pecans and gently fold them into the batter before pouring it into the pan. This adds great texture!

Can I use other spices instead of cinnamon?

Yes! You can experiment with spices like cardamom or ginger for a unique flavor twist while keeping the cozy essence of this cake.

How can I customize my frosting?

Feel free to add cocoa powder for chocolate flavor or mix in some finely chopped apples for added texture in your cream cheese frosting.

Final Thoughts

Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful dessert that combines moistness with rich flavors, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it plain or customize it with nuts and spices, this versatile recipe is sure to be a hit. Give it a try and enjoy this comforting treat!