Description
Golden, moist, and kissed with warm spices—this cake is pure autumn comfort in every bite. Made with pantry staples and a jar of applesauce, it’s the kind of recipe that feels like a hug from the oven. Whether you dust it with powdered sugar, crown it with cream cheese frosting, or enjoy it plain with a hot cup of tea, this cake is all about simple joy and cozy memories.
Ingredients
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 cup brown sugar
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2 large eggs, room temp
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1 tsp pure vanilla extract
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1 1/2 cups unsweetened applesauce
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tsp baking soda
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1/2 tsp baking powder
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1/2 tsp salt
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1 tsp cinnamon
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1/2 tsp nutmeg
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1/4 tsp cloves
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1/2 cup chopped walnuts or raisins (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9” pan or 9×5” loaf pan; line with parchment for easy removal.
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Cream butter & brown sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 min).
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Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
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Mix in applesauce (batter may look slightly curdled—totally fine).
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In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and spices.
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Gently combine dry mix with wet ingredients—don’t overmix.
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Fold in walnuts or raisins if using.
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Spread batter evenly in pan. Bake 35–40 min, or until toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
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Cool completely before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar or frost if desired.
Notes
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Gluten-Free: Swap flour with 1:1 gluten-free blend.
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Vegan: Use vegan butter + flax eggs.
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Mix-ins: Pecans, cranberries, or chocolate chips.
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Bundt: Double recipe, bake 50–60 min.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 35–40 min
Nutrition
- Calories: 290 cal Per Serving
- Sugar: 22g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 41g