There’s just something about apples, cinnamon, and cream cheese that feels like a warm hug on a crisp autumn day. This Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is everything you want in a cozy dessert: soft, tender crumb, rich spices, creamy frosting, and just enough sweetness to make you sigh with every bite. It’s the kind of cake you’ll want to bring to the table when friends drop by or when you need a simple sweet moment at the end of a long day.
So grab your mixing bowl and a spoon — let’s turn simple pantry staples into pure comfort.
Table of Contents
A Trip Down Memory Lane: The Nostalgia of Applesauce Cake
For many of us, applesauce cake takes us straight back to grandma’s kitchen. Maybe it was served warm from the oven, or packed in lunchboxes, or brought to every potluck. Applesauce was a clever way to keep cakes moist and flavorful without loads of butter, and it added a natural sweetness that felt wholesome and hearty.
This cake is a nod to those classic recipes — but with a modern twist. We’re adding a cinnamon cream cheese frosting that transforms this humble cake into a show-stopping dessert. Whether you’re an old fan or trying it for the first time, this cake has timeless charm.
Perfect Occasions to Serve This Cake
Honestly, there’s never a bad time for applesauce cake. But here are a few perfect moments:
- 🍂 Fall gatherings with friends
- 🍎 Thanksgiving dessert tables
- 🎂 Casual birthdays or small celebrations
- ☕ Afternoon tea or coffee dates
- 🧺 A sweet treat for picnics or potlucks
It’s cozy, unfussy, and always a hit.
Let’s Talk About Flavor: What Makes This Cake So Special
This cake isn’t just about sweetness—it’s about balance. The applesauce brings in a subtle fruity depth, the cinnamon warms everything up, and the brown sugar adds that deep, molasses-like richness. Combined with a lightly tangy, buttery cinnamon cream cheese frosting, each bite hits a little different—in the best way.
It’s not overpoweringly sweet, so you can go back for seconds (and thirds) without the sugar crash.
Texture Talk: Moist, Fluffy, and Creamy Layers
You know those cakes that just melt in your mouth? That’s this one. Thanks to the applesauce, this cake stays super moist without being dense. It’s light enough to not feel heavy but satisfying enough to count as a real dessert.
Then you add that frosting… oh boy. The thick, velvety cream cheese layer is rich and smooth with a cinnamon kick that enhances every bite. Frosted thick between the layers and swirled beautifully on top—just like in the photo—it’s the perfect finish.
Ingredients Breakdown
Let’s walk through what you’ll need and why each ingredient matters.
Flour and Sugars
- All-purpose flour gives the cake structure.
- Granulated sugar adds sweetness.
- Brown sugar brings moisture and a deeper caramel flavor.
Spices and Leavening
- Ground cinnamon is the key spice here. Warm, fragrant, and comforting.
- Baking powder gives the cake its rise.
- Salt enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
The Star: Applesauce
- Unsweetened applesauce brings moisture and a subtle apple taste. It’s also a great way to reduce the amount of fat needed without losing texture.
Fats and Eggs
- Vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil) keeps the crumb tender.
- Eggs provide structure and richness.
Vanilla and Milk
- Vanilla extract adds warmth and depth.
- Milk (dairy or plant-based) helps create a smooth, pourable batter.
Why Use Applesauce in Cake?
Besides being delicious, applesauce is a baking secret weapon. It makes cakes:
- Super moist without extra oil or butter
- Slightly sweet and fruity
- Healthier (lower fat and fewer calories)
- Rich in fiber and nutrients
And for anyone avoiding eggs or dairy, applesauce is often used as a vegan substitute.
Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting: The Crown Jewel
This frosting is what dreams are made of. Imagine your favorite cream cheese frosting, but with a generous swirl of cinnamon that ties it perfectly into the cake’s spice profile. It’s thick, luscious, not overly sweet, and spreadable enough to pipe, swirl, or smear beautifully.
Frosting Ingredients
- Cream cheese: The tangy base
- Butter: Adds richness and smooth texture
- Powdered sugar: For sweetness and structure
- Ground cinnamon: Warm and spicy
- Vanilla extract: For flavor depth
- Milk: Just enough to get the perfect consistency
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
Want to mix things up? Here are some ideas:
Healthier Options
- Use whole wheat flour for added fiber.
- Substitute maple syrup or honey for part of the sugar.
Vegan and Dairy-Free Adjustments
- Use a vegan cream cheese and plant-based butter.
- Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg).
Nutty Additions
- Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
- Sprinkle toasted almonds on top for a crunch.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Ready to bake? Let’s walk through it.
Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
Add Wet Ingredients
To the same bowl, add:
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Whisk until just combined, then pour in:
- ½ cup milk (any kind)
Mix until the batter is smooth and slightly thick.
Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool the cake completely before frosting.
Make the Frosting
Once your cake is cooling, it’s time to whip up the dreamiest Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting.
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, beat together:
- 8 oz softened cream cheese
- ¼ cup softened unsalted butter
- Slowly add:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- Add:
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- If the frosting is too thick, add 1–2 tbsp milk, a little at a time, until it’s spreadable and luscious.
This frosting is thick enough to hold its shape, but soft enough to melt in your mouth. The cinnamon adds just the right amount of spice to balance the tangy sweetness.
Frost & Serve
Once your cake is completely cooled, slice it into layers (if desired) or keep it as a single layer. Use a spatula or piping bag to generously frost the top—or between the layers, just like in the image.
Finally, give it a dusting of cinnamon on top. That simple touch not only looks beautiful but gives an extra boost of warm spice with every bite.
Tips for the Best Applesauce Cake
Want your cake to come out picture-perfect (just like the one you saw)? Follow these tips:
- Use room temperature ingredients for smoother mixing.
- Don’t overmix the batter—this keeps it light and fluffy.
- Let it cool fully before frosting. If the cake is warm, the frosting will melt right off.
- Bake evenly by tapping the pan gently on the counter before putting it in the oven.
- Store it covered to keep it moist for days.
🍎 Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert 🍰 / Fall Baking 🍎
Description
🍰 A cozy, heartwarming dessert filled with the comforting flavors of cinnamon, apples, and cream cheese frosting. Perfect for chilly fall evenings or holiday gatherings — every bite tastes like a hug! 🍂💛
Ingredients
For the Cake:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup packed brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 cup unsweetened applesauce
½ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
For the Frosting:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp vanilla extract
1–2 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)
Instructions
Preheat & Prep (10 mins):
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch pan or line it with parchment paper. 🧁Mix Dry Ingredients (5 mins):
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, both sugars, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt until combined. 🍂Add Wet Ingredients (5 mins):
Add applesauce, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until smooth, then stir in milk until the batter is thick and creamy. 🍏Bake (35–40 mins):
Pour the batter into the pan and bake until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely on a wire rack. 🎂Make the Frosting (8 mins):
Beat cream cheese and butter until fluffy. Add powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla. Mix in milk gradually until creamy and spreadable. 🥣Frost & Serve (5 mins):
Once the cake is cool, spread frosting evenly and sprinkle a touch of cinnamon on top. Slice and enjoy every spiced, cozy bite! 🍰✨
Notes
This Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect cozy dessert for crisp fall days or festive family gatherings. The applesauce keeps it incredibly moist while the warm cinnamon adds a nostalgic, comforting flavor. The luscious cream cheese frosting takes it over the top — smooth, slightly tangy, and perfectly spiced. 🌟
💡 Pro Tip: Chill the cake before serving for a firmer, cheesecake-like texture or enjoy it at room temperature for a soft, melt-in-your-mouth bite.
🍂 Perfect with a hot cup of coffee, spiced chai, or warm apple cider!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 9–12 slices
- Calories: 420 kcal
Decorating Tips for That Wow Factor
Even a rustic cake can look fancy with a few finishing touches. Try these:
- Pipe the frosting in thick swirls using a star tip.
- Dust the top with cinnamon or a little nutmeg.
- Add a few apple slices or chopped nuts on top.
- Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
You may like also :
Ultimate Cinnamon Swirl Apple Fritter Bread
Serving Suggestions: Chilled or Room Temp?
Here’s the fun part—you can serve this cake two ways, and both are divine:
- Chilled: Pop it in the fridge for a couple of hours. The texture becomes dense, rich, and almost cheesecake-like. Great for hot days or when you want a more solid slice.
- Room temperature: Leave it out for 30–45 minutes before serving. It becomes soft, fluffy, and the frosting turns silky smooth.
You can’t go wrong. Try both and see which one wins your heart.
Storing and Freezing the Cake
If you somehow have leftovers (good luck with that 😋), here’s how to store it:
To Store:
- Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Bring to room temp before serving for best flavor and texture.
To Freeze:
- Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and foil.
- Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
You can also freeze the cake and frosting separately. Just frost once everything is thawed and ready to go!
Conclusion: Bake, Frost, Devour
There’s something magical about the simplicity of this Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting. It’s proof that humble ingredients can make something incredibly satisfying and heartwarming. Whether you’re making it for a holiday, sharing it with loved ones, or just treating yourself to something sweet after dinner, this cake is a guaranteed hit.
With its tender crumb, cozy spices, and rich frosting, this dessert wraps you up in warmth and nostalgia with every single bite. So go ahead—bake it, share it, and maybe even hide a slice just for yourself (we won’t tell 😉).
Similar recipes :
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites
Apple Cinnamon Loaf
Cinnamon Sugar Cream Cheese Rolls
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought applesauce for this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure it’s unsweetened applesauce to keep the sugar levels balanced. If using sweetened, you may want to reduce the added sugar slightly.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can bake the cake a day or two in advance and store it unfrosted in the fridge. Frost it before serving for best results.
3. What can I use instead of cream cheese for the frosting?
If you’re not a fan of cream cheese, try using mascarpone for a milder flavor, or even a thick Greek yogurt frosting for a tangy twist.
4. Can I bake this in a different pan size?
Yes! You can use a 9-inch round pan, or even make it into cupcakes. Just adjust the baking time—cupcakes take about 18–22 minutes.
5. Is this cake freezer-friendly?
Definitely. Freeze frosted or unfrosted slices (or the whole cake!) for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge and enjoy.
