Applesauce Cake Recipe: Easy Homemade Dessert with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

You know that moment when the zing of cinnamon hits your nose and suddenly, you’re five years old again—standing on a chair beside grandma, sneaking tastes of applesauce straight from the jar. That’s exactly what baking this applesauce cake recipe does for me, every single time. The sweet, homey scent just fills the kitchen and, honestly, it’s like a hug in dessert form.

I first stumbled across the idea for this applesauce cake during a Pinterest scroll-fest (we’ve all been there, right?) looking for something easy but special. I wanted old-school flavor, but with a twist—a cake that’s moist, not overly sweet, and topped with something dreamy. Enter: cinnamon cream cheese frosting. The combination is pure magic. Applesauce keeps the cake tender and light, while the frosting brings a tangy richness that’ll have you licking the spoon (no judgment).

This applesauce cake recipe is a lifesaver for busy families and last-minute gatherings. I’ve baked it for birthdays, brunches, and even just quiet afternoons when comfort food calls. It’s also a hit with my picky eaters—plus, you can sneak in some extra fruit and fiber without anyone noticing! After testing this cake a dozen times (seriously, my neighbors got lucky), I promise it’s reliable, simple, and so worth making. Whether you’re new to baking or just need a reliable dessert, this applesauce cake with cinnamon cream cheese frosting should be at the top of your list.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: You’ll have this applesauce cake ready in under an hour, which means instant dessert gratification. No complicated steps, just whisk, pour, and bake!
• Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is probably in your pantry right now. Applesauce, flour, sugar, eggs, and spices—nothing fancy or hard to find.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: This cake shines at brunch, is a cozy fit for holiday mornings, and works beautifully as a weeknight treat.
• Crowd-Pleaser: I’ve made this for potlucks and family gatherings—kids gobble up the cake, adults swoon over the frosting. It never lasts long.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The applesauce keeps the crumb super moist, while the cinnamon cream cheese frosting adds a rich, tangy kick. Each bite is a little celebration.

Here’s what makes this applesauce cake recipe stand out: I always blend the applesauce into the batter for an extra-smooth texture. The cinnamon in both the cake and the frosting creates a flavor profile that’s warm, inviting, and totally crave-worthy. And you know what? I’ve tried swapping in whole wheat flour and it works great—so you can make it a bit healthier without losing that comfort food vibe.

Honestly, this isn’t just any applesauce cake. It’s the kind you close your eyes for, savoring the spice and softness. It’s a shortcut to nostalgia, with just enough modern twist to keep things interesting. Whether you want to impress guests or treat yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to deliver simple happiness, bite after bite.

Ingredients Needed

This applesauce cake recipe relies on accessible ingredients that come together for a moist, flavorful dessert. The frosting takes it over the top, thanks to its creamy, spiced profile. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Applesauce Cake:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour (swap with whole wheat for a nuttier flavor)
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon (adds warmth)
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for extra spice)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil (can use melted coconut oil)
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar (brown sugar works for a deeper flavor)
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 ½ cups (360g) unsweetened applesauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup (80g) raisins or chopped walnuts (optional, adds texture)

For the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Ingredient Tips: For the applesauce, I usually go with unsweetened to keep things balanced. If using homemade applesauce, make sure it’s not too watery, or the cake might end up dense. For a gluten-free version, swap the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend—I’ve used Bob’s Red Mill and had great results. Allergic to nuts? Skip the walnuts and stick to the classic. If you love a little extra spice, add a dash of ground ginger to the batter. The frosting is flexible too: dairy-free cream cheese works in a pinch, and you can use coconut sugar in place of powdered sugar if you want to experiment.

Honestly, with ingredients this straightforward, you’re set up for success from the start. No surprises, just pure comfort.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls: At least two—one for wet and one for dry ingredients. I use glass; they’re easy to clean and don’t absorb odors.
• 9×13-inch (23x33cm) baking pan: Standard size, but you can split the batter into two 8-inch (20cm) rounds for a layer cake.
• Electric mixer or whisk: A hand mixer makes the frosting super smooth, but a sturdy whisk will do in a pinch.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precision—cake baking is a bit of a science!
• Rubber spatula: For scraping the bowl and smoothing the batter.
• Wire rack: For cooling the cake evenly (I’ve skipped this before and ended up with soggy edges—lesson learned).

If you don’t have a mixer, just beat the frosting longer with a whisk. For the pan, metal or glass both work, though I find metal gives a slightly crispier edge. On a budget? Grab basic tools from any discount store—they’ll get the job done. And if your baking pan is a little battered, just line it with parchment paper for easy release.

Preparation Method

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch (23x33cm) baking pan with butter or nonstick spray. If you like easy cleanup, line with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups (250g) flour, 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon, ½ teaspoon nutmeg, 1 teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt. No lumps, just a soft, fragrant blend.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat together ½ cup (120ml) oil and 1 cup (200g) sugar until smooth. Add 2 eggs one at a time, mixing well after each, then stir in 1 ½ cups (360g) applesauce and 1 teaspoon vanilla. The mixture will look pale and creamy.
4. Blend Batter: Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing gently until just combined. Overmixing can make the cake tough—so go easy. Fold in ½ cup (80g) raisins or walnuts if using.
5. Pour and Bake: Pour batter into prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden and springy to the touch.
6. Cool Completely: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Cooling is key for a tender crumb—don’t rush this step!
7. Prepare Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat 8 oz (225g) cream cheese and ¼ cup (60g) butter until creamy and lump-free. Add 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1 teaspoon vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Beat until fluffy, about 2 minutes. If frosting feels too soft, chill for 10-15 minutes before using.
8. Frost the Cake: Once cake is completely cool, spread frosting generously over the top. Swirl with a spatula for rustic charm.
9. Slice and Serve: Cut into squares and enjoy! The first bite should be tender, moist, and full of warm spice.

Troubleshooting: Cake sinking in the middle? That usually means underbaking—check with a toothpick before pulling from the oven. Frosting too runny? Add extra powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time. If you notice the edges browning too quickly, tent the pan loosely with foil halfway through baking. My personal trick: always taste the batter before baking (just a dab)—sometimes a pinch more cinnamon makes all the difference.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Baking applesauce cake can be straightforward, but a few tricks make it even better. First, let all your ingredients come to room temperature—especially eggs and cream cheese. This helps everything mix smoothly and prevents curdling.

Don’t skip the step of sifting or whisking dry ingredients. I learned the hard way that clumps of baking soda can ruin a cake’s texture. And when you mix wet and dry, gentle folding is key. Overmixing can make the cake dense. If you’re multitasking, prep the frosting while the cake cools—it’ll save you time and keep things moving.

One mistake I made early on: frosting a warm cake. It melted everywhere (not a good look, trust me). So, patience pays off! Also, if your kitchen is warm, chill the frosting for a few minutes before spreading—this keeps swirls clean and pretty.

For consistent results, use a metal baking pan. I’ve tried glass, and while it works, the edges can get a little too soft. If you want a layer cake, divide the batter evenly and adjust bake time to 25-28 minutes. And if you’re adding nuts or raisins, toss them in flour first—this keeps them from sinking to the bottom. Tiny details, big difference!

Variations & Adaptations

This applesauce cake recipe is flexible—here are some fun ways to make it your own:

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend, 1:1. I’ve had great luck with Bob’s Red Mill—texture stays moist and soft.
• Vegan-Friendly: Swap eggs for flax eggs (2 tablespoons ground flax + 5 tablespoons water) and use vegan cream cheese/butter for the frosting. The flavor is still spot-on.
• Seasonal Twist: Mix in ½ cup grated carrots or zucchini along with the applesauce for a veggie boost. In fall, chopped fresh apples or pears add a burst of juicy sweetness.
• Nut-Free: Omit walnuts and raisins, or swap in sunflower seeds or dried cranberries if you like a little chew.
• Spice Lovers: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom to the batter for extra aroma. I once tried a chai spice blend—wow!

One of my favorite personal spins is to use apple butter in place of half the applesauce. It gives the cake a deeper, caramel-like flavor. You can also bake this batter as cupcakes—just reduce the bake time to 18-22 minutes. Honestly, don’t be afraid to tweak—this cake can handle it!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This applesauce cake is best served at room temperature for maximum flavor and tender texture. I like to slice generous squares and pile them high on a pretty cake stand—it’s a true showstopper!

Pair it with hot coffee, a cold glass of milk, or even chai tea for a cozy treat. For brunch, serve alongside scrambled eggs and fruit salad. The cinnamon cream cheese frosting is rich, so a little goes a long way—though I always sneak a bit extra.

Storage: Cover leftovers tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cake actually tastes even better after a day or two—the spices deepen, and the crumb stays moist. For longer storage, wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bring to room temperature before serving.

To reheat, zap slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds (just enough to soften, but not melt the frosting). If you’re planning ahead for a party, you can bake the cake a day before and frost just before serving. Flavors develop beautifully over time, making each bite even more satisfying.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s an estimate per serving (based on 12 servings):

• Calories: 310
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 27g

Applesauce adds natural sweetness and moisture, cutting down the need for extra fat. Using unsweetened applesauce gives you fiber and Vitamin C, while cinnamon may help balance blood sugar (just a little bonus!). The eggs provide protein, and you can make this cake lower in sugar by using coconut sugar or reducing the powdered sugar in the frosting.

This applesauce cake recipe is easy to adapt for gluten-free or nut-free diets—just check your substitutions. If you have dairy allergies, swap cream cheese and butter for non-dairy versions. From my wellness perspective, I love how this cake can be part of a balanced treat, especially when made with wholesome ingredients.

Conclusion

If you’re searching for a dessert that’s simple, nostalgic, and downright delicious, this applesauce cake recipe with cinnamon cream cheese frosting checks every box. It’s easy enough for beginners, yet special enough for holidays and celebrations. You can customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs, and the results are always moist, flavorful, and crowd-friendly.

I love this cake because it’s a true comfort food—warm spices, creamy frosting, and just enough sweetness to make you smile. Whether you bake it for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s the kind of recipe that becomes a tradition.

Give it a try and let me know how you personalize your applesauce cake! Drop a comment below with your tweaks, share your photos, or tag me on Pinterest—I’d love to see your creations. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with cinnamon-scented joy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this applesauce cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! Bake the cake a day ahead and store it covered. Frost just before serving for best texture.

What kind of applesauce works best?

Unsweetened applesauce is ideal—it gives moisture without extra sugar. Homemade or store-bought both work well.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. I’ve tested Bob’s Red Mill and King Arthur—both produce a moist, tender cake.

How do I prevent the frosting from melting?

Let the cake cool completely before frosting. If your kitchen is warm, chill the frosting for 10-15 minutes before spreading.

Can I freeze the applesauce cake?

Definitely. Slice and wrap individually, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and bring to room temperature before serving.

Applesauce Cake Recipe: Easy Homemade Dessert with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

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• Author: Rachel Summers
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

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Description

This moist, nostalgic applesauce cake is easy to make and topped with a dreamy cinnamon cream cheese frosting. Perfect for busy families, gatherings, or a comforting treat, it’s packed with warm spices and adaptable for various diets.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour)
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar (or brown sugar)
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 ½ cups (360g) unsweetened applesauce
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup (80g) raisins or chopped walnuts (optional)
• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or nonstick spray. Line with parchment paper for easy cleanup if desired.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat together oil and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in applesauce and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Fold in raisins or walnuts if using.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden and springy.
7. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. For the frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Beat until fluffy, about 2 minutes. Chill frosting for 10-15 minutes if too soft.
9. Once cake is completely cool, spread frosting generously over the top. Swirl with a spatula.
10. Slice into squares and serve.

Notes

Let all ingredients come to room temperature for best results. Sift or whisk dry ingredients to avoid lumps. Do not overmix the batter. Cool cake completely before frosting to prevent melting. For gluten-free or vegan adaptations, substitute flour and eggs as needed. Toss nuts or raisins in flour before adding to prevent sinking.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 square (1/12 of cake)
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 27
• Sodium: 220
• Fat: 14
• Saturated Fat: 6
• Carbohydrates: 44
• Fiber: 2
• Protein: 4

Keywords: applesauce cake, cinnamon cream cheese frosting, easy dessert, moist cake, comfort food, homemade cake, fall baking, kid-friendly, brunch, potluck, nut-free, gluten-free, vegan adaptation