Description
Delight in this moist and flavorful Applesauce Spice Cake topped with a luscious Brown Sugar Icing. Bursting with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, this classic American dessert is perfect for cozy fall gatherings or anytime you crave a comforting sweet treat. The applesauce keeps the cake tender while the rich brown sugar icing adds a delicious finishing touch.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the Brown Sugar Icing:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice until well combined to evenly distribute the spices and leavening agents.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
- Incorporate Applesauce: Add the unsweetened applesauce to the batter and beat until the mixture is smooth and combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
- Add Nuts (Optional): Fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans if using for texture and nutty flavor.
- Pour and Bake: Transfer the batter to the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before applying icing.
- Make the Brown Sugar Icing: Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and milk, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Finish the Icing: Stir in the vanilla extract and sifted powdered sugar, whisking until the icing becomes smooth and creamy.
- Ice the Cake: Spread the prepared brown sugar icing evenly over the cooled cake. Allow the icing to set before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For a more intense spice flavor, let the cake sit overnight before serving to enhance the depth of the spices.
- Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
- For longer storage, refrigerate the cake; bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.
