This incredibly moist applesauce cake is full of warm spices and topped with a luscious brown sugar cream cheese frosting. It’s an easy, comforting dessert that’s perfect for fall and beyond!
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch square or 9-inch round cake pan.
Whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk the oil and brown sugar until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition. Stir in the applesauce and vanilla extract until smooth.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in the nuts.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool completely before frosting.
To make the frosting:
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
Add the brown sugar and continue beating until fully incorporated and the sugar starts to dissolve (about 2-3 minutes).
Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating until smooth. Adjust the amount of confectioners' sugar depending on how thick or sweet you want the frosting to be.
Mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Beat the frosting until light and fluffy.
Spread the frosting over the top of the cooled cake. If desired, garnish with chopped nuts.
Notes
Makes 16 servings, 12 generous servings, or 24 small servings.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 5 days.
For tips, step-by-step photos, and extra details, be sure to read the full post above before starting. It’s packed with helpful info to answer common questions!