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- 2 cups unsweetened applesauce - 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour - 1 cup granulated sugar - ½ cup brown sugar, packed - 1 teaspoon baking soda - 1 teaspoon baking powder - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg - ½ teaspoon salt - ½ cup vegetable oil - 3 large eggs - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature - ½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature - 4 cups powdered sugar - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon This cake starts with simple ingredients that bring rich flavor. Unsweetened applesauce is the star. It keeps the cake moist and adds natural sweetness. The blend of sugars, granulated and brown, gives depth to the taste. For the dry mix, combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, and spices. Cinnamon adds warmth while nutmeg gives a hint of spice. The salt balances the sweetness. In the wet mix, vegetable oil keeps it tender. Eggs help with rise and structure. Vanilla extract enhances the cake's flavor. For the frosting, cream cheese and butter create a smooth base. Powdered sugar sweetens and thickens it. The vanilla and cinnamon make it special. This simple list of ingredients comes together for a delightful treat. Preheat the Oven Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for a great bake. Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking dish. This will help the cake release easily after baking. Prepare the Dry Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients well ensures the spices and leavening agents distribute evenly throughout the cake. Mix the Wet Ingredients In a separate bowl, combine the unsweetened applesauce, granulated sugar, packed brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk or electric mixer to blend until the mixture is smooth. This step adds moisture and sweetness to the cake. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures Next, gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. This helps keep your cake light and fluffy. Pour and Spread the Batter Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface. This ensures even baking and a nice rise. Bake the Cake Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean when the cake is fully baked. Cooling Instructions Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before frosting. This helps the frosting stay smooth and not melt. Beat the Frosting Ingredients In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter using an electric mixer. Mix until smooth and creamy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Add Powdered Sugar Gradually add the powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture. Start on low speed to avoid a cloud of sugar. Once combined, increase the speed to medium and mix until fluffy. Mix in Flavorings Stir in the vanilla extract and ground cinnamon. Ensure everything is well mixed and smooth. This adds a lovely flavor to your frosting. Apply the Frosting Once the cake has cooled completely, use a spatula to spread the cinnamon cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the cake. Aim for a generous layer. This adds a delicious finish to your applesauce cake. Checking for Doneness To check if your cake is done, use a toothpick. Insert it into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. If it has wet batter on it, bake for a few more minutes. Remember, overbaking can dry out the cake, so check early. Ensuring a Fluffy Texture To keep your cake fluffy, mix your wet and dry ingredients gently. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Fold the dry mix into the wet mix until just combined. This preserves air bubbles, which create a light texture. Achieving a Smooth Frosting For a smooth frosting, start with room temperature cream cheese and butter. Beat them together until creamy. Add the powdered sugar slowly to avoid lumps. Mix on medium speed until fluffy. A spatula can help spread the frosting evenly. Storing Leftover Frosting If you have leftover frosting, store it in an airtight container. Refrigerate it for up to one week. When ready to use it again, let it sit at room temperature. Re-whip it if needed to regain that fluffy texture. {{image_4}} Gluten-Free Options You can easily make this cake gluten-free. Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Look for blends that include xanthan gum. This helps create a nice texture. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly. Start checking for doneness a few minutes early. Vegan Adaptations To make this cake vegan, substitute eggs with flaxseed meal. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. Use plant-based butter instead of regular butter for the frosting. You can also use nut milk in place of dairy. Adding Nuts or Fruits You can add a fun twist by putting in nuts or fruits. Chopped walnuts or pecans add crunch. Diced apples or raisins bring extra sweetness. Mix these into the batter before baking. This creates a cake with even more flavor and texture. Alternative Frosting Options Try different frostings for a unique taste. A simple vanilla buttercream is a great choice. You can also use a chocolate ganache for a rich flavor. Cream cheese frosting with a hint of orange zest adds a nice touch too. It’s fun to mix and match and find your favorite! - Room Temperature Storage: You can keep the cake at room temperature for up to three days. Make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or a cake dome. This keeps it fresh and moist. - Refrigeration Recommendations: If you want to store it longer, place it in the fridge. It can last up to a week there. Just wrap it well to prevent it from drying out. The cool air in the fridge helps keep the flavors fresh. - How to Freeze Slices: Cut the cake into slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer bag. Label the bag with the date. It’s best to freeze the cake for up to three months. - Thawing and Reheating Tips: To enjoy, take a slice out and let it thaw in the fridge overnight. If you want it warm, you can microwave it for about 15-20 seconds. This brings back its soft texture. Enjoy your cake even after freezing! Yes, you can use sweetened applesauce. It will add extra sugar to the cake. You might want to reduce the granulated sugar by ¼ cup. This helps keep the cake balanced and delicious. Check the cake by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. The edges should also pull away slightly from the pan. This shows the cake is fully baked. The cake lasts about 3-4 days at room temperature. If you store it in the fridge, it can last up to a week. Just keep it covered to keep it fresh. Yes, you can make the cake one day in advance. Just let it cool completely before covering it. Frost it on the day you plan to serve it for the best taste. Yes, this cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. You can freeze it for up to three months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving. You learned how to make a delicious applesauce cake with creamy frosting. We covered all the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. Remember, baking is about having fun and experimenting. Feel free to try different flavors or dietary options. Enjoy your cake fresh or stored for later. The best part? You're now ready to impress with your baking skills!

Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulge in the sweet goodness of Applesauce Delight Cake with a dreamy Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting! This easy-to-follow recipe combines simple ingredients for a moist and delicious cake perfect for any occasion. In just an hour, you can treat your family and friends to a delightful dessert that's bursting with flavor. Click through to explore the full recipe and discover how to make this irresistible cake today!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups unsweetened applesauce

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar

½ cup brown sugar, packed

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

½ teaspoon salt

½ cup vegetable oil

3 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature

½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

4 cups powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

    Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt until well combined. This will ensure an even distribution of the leavening agents and spices in your cake.

      Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the unsweetened applesauce, granulated sugar, packed brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk or electric mixer to blend until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.

        Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and fluffy.

          Pour and Spread the Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, using a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface.

            Bake the Cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is fully baked.

              Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

                For the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting:

                  Beat the Frosting Ingredients: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

                    Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low speed until fully combined. Increase the speed to medium and mix until the frosting is fluffy.

                      Mix in Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract and ground cinnamon, ensuring everything is well incorporated and smooth.

                        Frosting the Cake:

                          Apply the Frosting: Once the cake has cooled completely, use a spatula to spread the cinnamon cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the cake, creating a generous layer.

                            Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 12 slices

                              - Presentation Tips: Slice the cake into neat squares and arrange them on a decorative plate. For an appealing finish, garnish each slice with a light dusting of cinnamon and a thin slice of fresh apple to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness to each serving.