This applesauce cake combines the rich warmth of cinnamon with the subtle sweetness of applesauce to create a moist and flavorful treat. With its simple preparation and versatile nature, it can be served as a comforting dessert or a quick snack.
Ingredients Overview
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in achieving the cake’s tender texture and balanced flavor. The applesauce acts as a natural sweetener and keeps the cake moist, while cinnamon adds a fragrant spiciness. Greek yogurt contributes creaminess, enhancing the cake’s lightness, and olive oil ensures a smooth batter. Brown sugar lends a caramel-like depth, while vanilla extract brings a gentle aroma. For those seeking variations, spiced applesauce can be used to heighten the flavor, and vegetable oil serves as a suitable substitute for olive oil.
Step-by-Step Preparation
To create the perfect base, mix the flour, sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt directly in the greased baking pan. This not only saves on cleanup but also ensures an even distribution of dry ingredients. Use a fork to thoroughly break up clumps and blend the mixture.
Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients to create a space for the wet components. Crack the egg into the well and add the olive oil, Greek yogurt, applesauce, and vanilla extract. Slowly incorporate the wet ingredients into the dry, mixing gently with a fork. Stir until the batter achieves a smooth, cohesive consistency, free of lumps.
For an even bake, smooth the top of the batter with the flat edge of a butter knife. This step helps prevent uneven rising and ensures a uniform texture throughout.
Place the baking pan in a preheated oven at 350°F. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, monitoring closely in the final minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the surface feels firm yet springy to the touch.
Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on the countertop for about an hour. This step is essential to avoid crumbling when slicing. Dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar, adding a decorative and lightly sweet finish before cutting it into portions.
Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing the best applesauce:
Use unsweetened applesauce for balanced sweetness, or opt for homemade for a personalized touch.
Adjusting sweetness:
Increase or decrease the brown sugar to suit your preference.
Adding mix-ins:
Enhance the cake with a handful of chopped nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips for added texture.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, but it may result in a denser texture; consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose for balance.
What’s the best way to make this recipe vegan?
Replace the egg with a flax egg, the yogurt with a plant-based alternative, and the olive oil with a neutral vegetable oil.
Can I freeze the cake for later use? Absolutely!
Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months.
What to Serve With This Recipe
This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A drizzle of caramel sauce can elevate it into a decadent dessert. For a cozy afternoon treat, serve with a steaming cup of coffee or a fragrant chai tea.
Storage and Reuse Tips
Store the cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days, or refrigerate it for up to five days to prolong freshness. To reheat slices, place them in a microwave for a few seconds or warm them gently in a low oven to restore their soft texture.
This applesauce cake is an easy yet satisfying recipe, perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Its comforting flavors and moist texture make it a versatile addition to any meal or occasion. Experiment with your favorite add-ins or toppings and enjoy this delightful treat whenever the craving strikes.
Ingredients
¾ teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2/3 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed
½ cup unsweetened applesauce (or homemade applesauce)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 egg
1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
¾ teaspoon baking powder
⅓ cup olive oil
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
½ cup plain Greek yogurt
Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease an 8-inch square baking pan to prevent sticking.
Combine the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt directly in the prepared baking pan. Use a fork to thoroughly blend the dry ingredients, ensuring an even distribution.
Form a well in the center of the dry mixture using your hands. Crack the egg into the well, then add the olive oil, yogurt, applesauce, and vanilla extract. Gently mix everything together with a fork until the batter is smooth and well-combined. Smooth the surface of the batter evenly with the edge of a butter knife for a consistent bake.
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The cake is ready when the center feels firm to the touch and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean, with no wet batter clinging to it.
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan on a countertop, approximately 1 hour. Once cooled, dust the top generously with powdered sugar for a decorative and flavorful finish. Cut the cake into pieces and carefully lift them out using a small spatula.
Store the cake at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate it for up to 5 days to maintain its freshness.
Applesauce Cake Recipe
Ingredients
- ¾ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2/3 cup light brown sugar firmly packed
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce or homemade applesauce
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 egg
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ teaspoon baking powder
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease an 8-inch square baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Combine the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt directly in the prepared baking pan. Use a fork to thoroughly blend the dry ingredients, ensuring an even distribution.
- Form a well in the center of the dry mixture using your hands. Crack the egg into the well, then add the olive oil, yogurt, applesauce, and vanilla extract. Gently mix everything together with a fork until the batter is smooth and well-combined. Smooth the surface of the batter evenly with the edge of a butter knife for a consistent bake.
- Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The cake is ready when the center feels firm to the touch and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean, with no wet batter clinging to it.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan on a countertop, approximately 1 hour. Once cooled, dust the top generously with powdered sugar for a decorative and flavorful finish. Cut the cake into pieces and carefully lift them out using a small spatula.
- Store the cake at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate it for up to 5 days to maintain its freshness.
