Old-Fashioned Applesauce Cake

Save this recipe on:

Rich with warming spices and tender from applesauce, this Old-Fashioned Applesauce Cake is a nostalgic treat that brings cozy memories to life. Its moist, fluffy crumb is dotted with raisins and a hint of cinnamon, making it the perfect pairing for a warm mug of tea or coffee. Whether you’re baking for a casual afternoon snack or a comforting dessert, this cake brings that homemade charm to your table.

This cake is often considered a “heritage” recipe, passed down through generations. Its simplicity is part of the charm—no need for fancy ingredients or tools. Just pantry staples that come together to create something sweet, spiced, and entirely satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Old-Fashioned Applesauce Cake

This recipe is an effortless delight. It uses one bowl, comes together quickly, and is packed with old-school flavor. The applesauce keeps the cake incredibly moist without needing a ton of oil or butter. Plus, it’s naturally egg-free, making it a great option for those with allergies or dietary restrictions.

Not only is it easy to whip up, but it also stays fresh for days—if it lasts that long. The aroma alone is worth making it: a waft of cinnamon and cloves baking in the oven brings everyone to the kitchen.

What Kind of Applesauce Should I Use?

For the best flavor and texture, opt for unsweetened applesauce. It lets you control the sweetness and gives the cake that rich apple flavor without being overly sugary. Homemade or store-bought both work well, but steer clear of chunky styles—you want it smooth for even mixing.

---

Ingredients for the Old-Fashioned Applesauce Cake

Each ingredient in this cake brings something to the table. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

• All-Purpose Flour – The base that gives structure to the cake.
• Baking Soda – Essential for lift; it reacts with the acidity in the applesauce.
• Salt – Balances out the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Ground Cinnamon & Cloves – Classic warm spices that make this cake so aromatic.
• Unsweetened Applesauce – Keeps the cake moist while adding natural sweetness.
• Brown Sugar – Adds depth and a touch of molasses flavor.
• Vegetable Oil – Helps keep the texture tender and moist.
• Vanilla Extract – Rounds out the flavor.
• Raisins or Currants – Provide chewy bursts of sweetness throughout.

---

How To Make the Old-Fashioned Applesauce Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and cloves.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the applesauce, brown sugar, oil, and vanilla to the dry mix. Stir until everything is well combined. The batter will be thick.

Step 4: Fold in the Raisins

Stir in the raisins or currants evenly.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth out the top. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar if you like.

---

Serving and Storing This Classic Cake

This Old-Fashioned Applesauce Cake serves about 12 people, making it a great choice for gatherings, potlucks, or cozy family nights. It’s lovely served slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

To store, wrap the cooled cake in plastic wrap or keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices and thaw as needed.

---

What to Serve With Old-Fashioned Applesauce Cake?

Warm Vanilla Sauce

Drizzle this classic sauce over a slice of cake for a decadent dessert finish.

Fresh Apple Slices

Serve alongside thinly sliced crisp apples for added texture and fresh flavor.

Spiced Chai Latte

The spices in this drink complement the cinnamon and cloves in the cake perfectly.

Cheddar Cheese

A sharp slice of cheddar on the side turns this cake into a traditional sweet-savory snack.

Whipped Cream

Simple, fluffy, and a great contrast to the dense, moist crumb.

Candied Nuts

Add a little crunch and extra sweet-spiced flavor.

Maple Yogurt

For a breakfast take, serve with a dollop of maple-flavored Greek yogurt.

---

Want More Cake Ideas with a Cozy Twist?

If you enjoyed this comforting applesauce cake, you might love these other sweet treats on Nora Nosh:

• Nova Scotia Blueberry Cream Cake for a fruity, fluffy dessert.
• Easy Apple Crisp Bars when you’re craving apple but with crunch.
• Magic Lemon Cobbler for a zesty, gooey bake.
• Banana Bread Cookies to enjoy soft-baked banana bliss.
• Whipped Shortbread Cookies if you want melt-in-your-mouth magic.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add nuts or keep it classic? Ever tried it with chopped dates instead of raisins?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Nora Nosh Recipes and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

---

Print

Save this recipe on: