Apple Sauce Spice Cake Recipe: 1-Bowl Moist & Irresistible Fall Favorite

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming dessert that wraps you up like your favorite fall sweater, this Apple Sauce Spice Cake recipe is exactly what you need. It’s sweet, spiced just right, and so incredibly moist thanks to the applesauce—it’s the kind of cake that makes you pause after the first bite and go mmm. Thank you for being here—your support means the world to me! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just beginning your journey in the kitchen, this cake is pure comfort food magic.

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What is Apple Sauce Spice Cake?

Apple Sauce Spice Cake is a soft, moist cake that gets its tender crumb from unsweetened applesauce and its cozy depth of flavor from warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. It’s a one-bowl wonder with old-fashioned charm, perfect for fall gatherings, holiday tables, or just because your kitchen needs to smell like heaven.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Sauce Spice Cake Recipe

• One Bowl, No Fuss: Minimal dishes and effort for maximum flavor
• Moist Without Butter: Applesauce keeps it tender without extra fat
• Spiced to Perfection: A trio of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger brings all the cozy vibes
• Versatile Add-ins: Walnuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips make it your own
• Smells Like a Hug: The aroma while it bakes? Unreal

What Does Apple Sauce Spice Cake Taste Like?

Think of a carrot cake without the carrots, or a gingerbread with a softer touch. The applesauce brings gentle fruitiness and sweetness, while the spices layer warmth and richness. Every bite is fluffy, fragrant, and slightly sticky in the best way possible. Pair it with tea, coffee, or just a quiet moment.

Ingredients for Apple Sauce Spice Cake

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Here’s everything you’ll need for this comforting bake:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ½ tsp ground ginger
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¾ cup unsweetened applesauce
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup chopped walnuts or raisins (optional)

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or hand mixer
• Spatula
• 8×8-inch baking pan or loaf pan
• Cooling rack
• Toothpick (for testing doneness)

Add-Ins and Substitutions

I promised you versatile, and here’s proof!

• Add-ins: Walnuts and raisins are classic, but don’t stop there. Try chopped dates, pecans, or even mini chocolate chips
• Gluten-free: Swap in your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend
• Egg-free: Use flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg)
• Lower sugar: Reduce sugar to ½ cup and bump up the spices

How to Make Apple Sauce Spice Cake (Step-by-Step)

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This cake couldn’t be easier—just mix, pour, and bake!

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8-inch baking pan or line with parchment
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt
3. In another bowl, combine applesauce, sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined—don’t overmix!
5. Fold in chopped nuts or raisins if using
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top
7. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean
8. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely

✨ That’s it! The hardest part is waiting for it to cool

What to Serve with Apple Sauce Spice Cake

• A dollop of whipped cream or vanilla Greek yogurt
• Warm caramel drizzle (seriously dreamy)
• Dusting of powdered sugar for that vintage bakery look
• Cup of spiced chai or black coffee

Tips for the Best Apple Sauce Spice Cake

• Don’t overmix the batter—stir just until combined to keep it tender
• Use fresh spices—ground spices lose their punch after a few months
• Line your pan with parchment for easy removal and prettier slices
• Let it rest—the flavor deepens after a few hours or overnight

Storage Instructions

• Room temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Fridge: Keeps well for up to 5 days, but bring to room temp before serving
• Freezer: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Just thaw and enjoy!

Apple Sauce Spice Cake FAQs Apple Sauce Spice Cake

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! It actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld. Perfect for planning ahead

Can I make this into muffins?

Absolutely! Just pour into muffin tins and bake at 350°F for 18–20 minutes

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

It’s kid-friendly and lunchbox-approved—just go easy on the nuts for younger eaters

Can I use sweetened applesauce?

You can, but reduce the sugar slightly (try ½ cup instead of ¾ cup)

Final Thoughts

This Apple Sauce Spice Cake is the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Simple ingredients, effortless steps, and a flavor that just feels like home. Whether you’re baking for a family dinner or just need a cozy weekend treat, this one hits all the right notes.

So go on—grab that applesauce and make some magic. You’ve got this!

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More Recipes You’ll Love

• Coconut Almond Spice Cake – a nutty, exotic twist on classic spice cake
• Carrot Date Spice Cake – rich, earthy, and naturally sweet
• Oatmeal Cake – hearty and comforting with a buttery topping

Share Your Bake!

Tried this recipe? I’d love to see it! Leave a review below and tag your photos on Pinterest at pinterest.com/poulefrecipe so we can all enjoy your beautiful bake. Let’s make the world a little warmer, one slice at a time 💛

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Based on 9 Servings)

• Calories: ~210
• Carbs: 30g
• Fat: 9g
• Protein: 3g
• Sugar: 16g
• Fiber: 1g

(Nutritional info is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used)

Thanks again for stopping by and happy baking! 🍏

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