Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Moist & Flavorful : Applesauce keeps the cake tender while adding a subtle apple flavor.
- Spiced Perfection : A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves creates a cozy, autumnal aroma.
- Healthy Twist : Reduced oil and added fruit make this cake lighter without sacrificing taste.
- Versatile : Serve plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with cream cheese frosting for extra indulgence.
- Kid-Friendly : Even picky eaters will love its soft texture and sweet-spiced flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
- 2 large eggs , room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (or substitute with milk + 1 tsp vinegar)
Optional Topping:
- Cream Cheese Frosting :
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Grease and flour a 9x9-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Set aside.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, applesauce, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix.
- Stir in the buttermilk until the batter is smooth and well blended.
