Description

A moist, spiced weeknight dessert made in a single bowl with pantry staples. This quick applesauce cake requires minimal cleanup and is perfect for busy parents.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup (245g) unsweetened applesauce
½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil or canola oil
¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter, optionally lining with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine applesauce, oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk vigorously for 1-2 minutes until smooth and emulsified.
Add flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg directly to the wet ingredients.
Stir gently with a spatula or whisk until just combined. Do not overmix; stop when no dry streaks of flour remain.
Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs. Tent with foil if browning too quickly after 30 minutes.
Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

Use unsweetened applesauce to control sugar levels. Ensure baking powder is fresh for proper rising. Do not overmix the batter to avoid a dense texture. The cake keeps well at room temperature for 3 days and freezes well for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 210
Sugar: 20
Sodium: 220
Fat: 8
Saturated Fat: 1
Carbohydrates: 35
Fiber: 1
Protein: 3

Keywords: applesauce cake, one bowl dessert, quick weeknight dessert, easy baking, moist cake, gluten-free option, vegan option