There’s something magical about a cake that smells like memories—and Grandma’s Applesauce Cake is exactly that. It’s spiced just right with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, balanced by the gentle sweetness of applesauce and a buttery crumb that stays tender for days. Whether it’s cooling on the counter during a crisp autumn afternoon or served warm with whipped cream at a holiday table, this cake is the cozy treat you’ll crave again and again.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fall in every bite – warm spices + applesauce = flavor heaven
- Nostalgic comfort – just like Grandma used to make
- Ridiculously moist – no dry crumbs here, promise!
- Simple pantry staples – no fuss, just cozy magic
- Perfect for sharing – or keeping all to yourself (we won’t tell)
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Dessert |
| Servings | 12 slices |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Bake Time | 45 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour |
| Key Flavors | Apple, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves |
| Texture | Soft, moist, tender crumb |
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to bring Grandma’s Applesauce Cake to life. No measurements here—scroll to the recipe card below when you’re ready to bake!
- All-purpose flour – for structure and that perfect cake crumb
- Granulated sugar – sweetness that balances the spices
- Baking soda – gives the cake a gentle rise
- Ground cinnamon – the cozy flavor star of the show
- Nutmeg & cloves – for depth, warmth, and a whisper of nostalgia
- Unsalted butter, melted – adds richness and keeps things extra moist
- Applesauce – the not-so-secret ingredient for flavor and tenderness
- Large eggs – to bind it all together and add fluff
📌 Scroll down for the full recipe card with measurements and baking instructions.
How to Make Grandma’s Applesauce Cake
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves until everything’s evenly distributed and smells like fall already.
Step 3: Stir in the Wet Ingredients
Pour in the melted butter, applesauce, and eggs. Stir just until everything comes together—don’t overmix! You want a smooth, thick batter.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Cool & (Optional) Frost
Let the cake cool completely before slicing. You can dust it with powdered sugar, add a cream cheese glaze, or enjoy it plain—it’s delicious any way.
Pro Tips for the Best Applesauce Cake
- Use unsweetened applesauce for better flavor control
- Add chopped walnuts or raisins for extra texture
- Want even more apple goodness? Fold in diced apples
- For an ultra-moist cake, don’t overbake—check at 40 minutes
Flavor Variations
- Cider Twist: Replace half the applesauce with apple cider
- Cozy Coconut: Add shredded coconut for a tropical touch
- Choco-Spice: Stir in mini chocolate chips—so good
- Orange-Spiced: Add orange zest to brighten the warm spices
Serving Suggestions
- With a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
- Drizzled with maple glaze or cream cheese frosting
- With a mug of hot apple cider or cinnamon tea
- Sliced warm with butter for breakfast (yes, cake for breakfast!)
If you’re in the mood for something a little brighter and chilled, you have to try my No-Bake Orange Pineapple Swirl Cheesecake. It’s creamy, citrusy, and a total sunshine-on-a-plate kind of dessert—perfect after a cozy slice of applesauce cake.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Make-Ahead: You can bake this cake a day ahead—just wrap tightly once cooled.
Storage: Store at room temp for 2–3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Leftovers: Still moist on day 3! Warm a slice in the microwave for 10 seconds.
Freezing: Freeze slices wrapped in plastic and foil for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Let thaw at room temp, then warm in the oven or microwave.
FAQs
Can I use sweetened applesauce?
Yes, but reduce the sugar slightly to avoid an overly sweet cake.
What kind of applesauce works best?
Unsweetened, smooth applesauce is perfect—homemade or store-bought!
Can I bake this in a bundt pan?
Absolutely! Just grease it well and bake a bit longer (about 50–55 minutes).
Is this cake good with frosting?
Oh yes! A simple cream cheese glaze or brown sugar frosting is chef’s kiss.
Final Thoughts
This applesauce cake isn’t just a recipe—it’s a slice of nostalgia. It brings warmth to chilly evenings, fills the kitchen with sweet spice, and reminds us of cozy family moments. Whether it’s your first time making it or your fiftieth, this is one of those desserts that never gets old. So grab a fork (and maybe a friend to share), and savor every tender bite.
Grandma’s Applesauce Cake
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking pan
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 1/2 cups unsweetened applesauce
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Stir in the melted butter, applesauce, and eggs. Mix until smooth and well combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely before serving. Optionally dust with powdered sugar or top with a glaze.