Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is the kind of soft, warmly spiced cake that makes the whole kitchen feel calm and familiar. It is moist from unsweetened applesauce, gently fragrant with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, then finished with a creamy frosting that carries even more cinnamon sweetness across the top.

I love a cake that feels like it belongs on a rainy afternoon, a fall dessert table, or a quiet weekend when the house needs something warm from the oven. This one has that nostalgic feeling, with a tender crumb, simple ingredients, and a frosting that makes every slice feel like a small celebration.

The cake batter begins with flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, warm spices, softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, and applesauce. Nothing about it is fussy, but the result tastes deeply comforting.

The frosting is rich and smooth, made with softened cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and just enough milk if needed to reach the right consistency. It spreads beautifully over the cooled cake and gives the whole dessert a cozy cinnamon finish.

This cake is perfect for fall when apples feel especially fitting, but it is just as welcome any time of year. Serve it for a gathering, make it for a family dessert, or keep slices chilled for whenever you need something sweet and comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

This cake has a quick prep time of just 20 minutes. That makes it practical for busy days when you still want a homemade dessert.

It is moist and flavorful. The unsweetened applesauce gives the cake tenderness, while cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves add warm spice.

It is family-friendly. Kids and adults can both enjoy the soft texture and sweet cinnamon cream cheese frosting.

It uses minimal ingredients. Many of the ingredients are common pantry and refrigerator staples.

It is freezer-friendly. You can freeze slices and enjoy them later when a sweet craving arrives.

It is easy to customize. Nuts, raisins, dried cranberries, extra spices, whole wheat flour, pumpkin puree, or dairy-free and vegan swaps can all give the cake a different direction.

Recipe Details

This Applesauce Cake bakes at 350°F (175°C). The oven should be preheated before the cake goes in so it bakes evenly.

A 9×13-inch baking pan works perfectly for this recipe. The pan should be greased and floured before the batter is added.

The cake batter starts with a dry mixture of 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg, and ½ teaspoon ground cloves.

The butter and sugars are creamed separately. The recipe uses ½ cup softened unsalted butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, and ½ cup brown sugar.

The wet ingredients include 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 ½ cups unsweetened applesauce. The applesauce is what gives the cake so much moisture.

The cake bakes for about 30 minutes. It is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

After baking, the cake cools in the pan for about 10 minutes before being transferred to a wire rack to cool completely. The frosting should only be added once the cake is fully cooled.

The frosting uses 8 ounces softened cream cheese, ¼ cup softened unsalted butter, 3 cups powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1–2 tablespoons milk if needed for consistency.

Ingredients

Applesauce Spice Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

½ teaspoon ground cloves

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

½ cup brown sugar

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 ½ cups unsweetened applesauce

Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

8 oz cream cheese, softened

¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

3 cups powdered sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1–2 tablespoons milk, optional

Ingredient Notes

All-purpose flour forms the base of the cake. Unbleached flour can be used for a richer flavor if preferred.

Baking powder helps the cake rise. Make sure it is fresh for the best lift.

Baking soda is also important. It helps create the moist texture and should not be skipped.

Salt balances the sweetness. Just ½ teaspoon helps the spices and applesauce taste more complete.

Ground cinnamon gives the cake its warm spice flavor. Fresh spices give the best flavor.

Ground nutmeg adds warmth. A little goes a long way, so the ½ teaspoon amount is enough.

Ground cloves add a cozy, autumnal flavor. They make the cake feel especially warm and fragrant.

Softened unsalted butter creams more easily with the sugars. Room-temperature butter helps create a smoother batter.

Granulated sugar sweetens the cake. You can substitute half with coconut sugar for a deeper flavor.

Packed brown sugar adds moisture and depth. It gives the cake a softer sweetness.

Eggs help bind the cake. Flax eggs can be used for a vegan option.

Vanilla extract adds warmth to both the cake and the frosting. Pure vanilla gives the best taste.

Unsweetened applesauce is the star ingredient. Homemade applesauce is fantastic, but store-bought works just fine.

Cream cheese should be softened before making the frosting. Room-temperature cream cheese mixes more smoothly.

Powdered sugar should be sifted to avoid lumps. This helps create a smooth frosting.

Milk is optional in the frosting. Add 1–2 tablespoons only if needed to reach your desired consistency.

Optional Swaps, Variations, Add-Ins, and Serving Ideas

Walnut Applesauce Cake

Add chopped walnuts for a delightful crunch. Walnuts bring texture to the soft cake.

They pair well with cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and applesauce. Use them when you want a more textured slice.

Pecan Applesauce Cake

Add chopped pecans instead of walnuts. Pecans give the cake a slightly different crunch and flavor.

They make the cake feel a little richer. They also work beautifully with the cinnamon cream cheese frosting.

Whole Wheat Applesauce Cake

Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist. This gives the cake a heartier texture.

The warm spices and applesauce still carry the flavor. This variation is a good option when you want a deeper grain flavor.

Pumpkin Spice Cake Variation

Use pumpkin puree instead of applesauce for a pumpkin spice cake. This changes the flavor while keeping the warm spice feeling.

The cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves work naturally with pumpkin. It is a fun fall twist.

Dairy-Free Applesauce Cake

Make the cake dairy-free by using coconut cream cheese and vegan butter for the frosting. Plant-based butter and cream cheese can also be used for a vegan direction.

The flavor and texture may change depending on the products used. The cinnamon frosting idea still stays the same.

Raisin Applesauce Cake

Stir in raisins for added flavor. Raisins add chewy sweetness to the cake.

They make each slice feel a little more old-fashioned and cozy. This is a nice option for a family-style dessert.

Dried Cranberry Applesauce Cake

Add dried cranberries for a fruity twist. They bring a little brightness to the warm spice flavor.

Dried cranberries also add color. They work well when you want the cake to feel more festive.

Ginger Spice Applesauce Cake

Add a pinch of ginger for an extra layer of flavor. Ginger makes the spice profile a little warmer.

Use only a pinch so it does not overpower the cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. It should support the cake, not take over.

Cardamom Applesauce Cake

Add a pinch of cardamom for another flavor layer. Cardamom gives the cake a different kind of warmth.

This variation feels aromatic and slightly unexpected. It works well with the cream cheese frosting.

Nut-Free Applesauce Cake

If you have a nut allergy, simply omit nuts. Seeds can be used instead if you still want texture.

The cake is still moist and flavorful without nuts. The applesauce and spices provide plenty of character.

Why This Applesauce Cake Works

This cake works because applesauce gives the batter moisture and gentle sweetness. It helps create a soft crumb that stays tender.

The warm spices make the cake feel cozy. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves give it a flavor that feels especially comforting.

Butter and sugars create richness. Creaming them together helps build a smooth, sweet base for the batter.

Brown sugar adds moisture. Granulated sugar gives clean sweetness.

Baking powder and baking soda work together to help the cake rise. Both are important for the final texture.

The cinnamon cream cheese frosting completes the cake. Its tangy cream cheese base balances the sweet, spiced crumb beautifully.

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives the cake an even baking environment from the beginning.

Let the oven fully heat before placing the pan inside. A properly preheated oven helps the cake rise and bake evenly.

While the oven warms, prepare your baking pan and ingredients. This makes the baking process smoother.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease and flour a baking pan. A 9×13-inch pan works perfectly for this recipe.

Make sure the bottom and sides are coated well. This helps the cake release more easily after baking.

Set the prepared pan aside. Once the batter is mixed, it can go straight into the pan.

Step 3: Gather the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, add 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg, and ½ teaspoon ground cloves.

These ingredients create the structure and spice of the cake. Measuring them carefully helps the cake bake correctly.

Use fresh spices if possible. Fresh cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves give the cake the best flavor.

Step 4: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

Whisk the dry ingredients together until well combined. This helps distribute the baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices evenly through the flour.

Even mixing matters because it prevents pockets of spice or leavening in the cake. Every slice should taste balanced.

Set the dry mixture aside. It will be added gradually to the wet ingredients later.

Step 5: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In another bowl, combine ½ cup softened unsalted butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, and ½ cup packed brown sugar. Cream them together until smooth and fluffy.

Softened butter mixes best here. Room-temperature butter helps the sugars blend into a creamy base.

This step gives the cake richness and sweetness. The mixture should look lighter and smooth when ready.

Step 6: Add the Eggs

Add 2 large eggs to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix well until fully incorporated.

The eggs help bind the cake together. They also help the batter become smooth.

Make sure the eggs are fully mixed in before moving to the next step. The wet mixture should look cohesive.

Step 7: Add the Vanilla Extract

Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix it into the butter, sugar, and egg mixture.

Vanilla adds warmth and sweetness. Pure vanilla gives the best flavor.

The mixture should smell sweet and buttery. It is now ready for the applesauce.

Step 8: Stir in the Applesauce

Add 1 ½ cups unsweetened applesauce. Stir until everything is well combined.

The applesauce gives the cake its moist texture. It also brings gentle fruit flavor.

Do not worry if the mixture looks softer or a little loose. The dry ingredients will bring it together.

Step 9: Add the Dry Ingredients Gradually

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture. Stir gently as you add it.

Mix only until just combined. Overmixing can make the cake less tender.

The batter may look a bit runny, and that is how it should be. The applesauce keeps it moist.

Step 10: Check the Batter

Look over the batter and make sure no dry flour pockets remain. Scrape the bottom and sides of the bowl if needed.

The batter should be smooth enough to pour, with warm spices evenly mixed throughout. It should smell like cinnamon, applesauce, and vanilla.

Do not keep stirring once everything is combined. Gentle handling helps the cake stay soft.

Step 11: Pour the Batter Into the Pan

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared 9×13-inch baking pan. Use a spatula to guide it into the corners.

Spread the surface gently so the cake bakes evenly. The batter should sit in an even layer.

Do not tap or press too aggressively. Just smooth the top enough for even baking.

Step 12: Bake the Cake

Place the pan in the preheated oven. Bake for about 30 minutes.

The cake should rise and become set. The warm spice aroma will begin filling the kitchen.

Keep an eye on the cake near the end of baking. Ovens can vary slightly.

Step 13: Test for Doneness

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

If wet batter clings to the toothpick, bake a little longer and check again. The center should be fully baked.

A clean toothpick is the best sign that the cake is done. Do not overbake, because the applesauce cake should stay moist.

Step 14: Cool in the Pan

Remove the cake from the oven. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.

This short cooling time helps the cake settle. It also makes it easier to handle before moving it.

The cake will still be warm, so be careful. Let it rest undisturbed.

Step 15: Transfer to a Wire Rack

After about 10 minutes, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely. If serving from the pan, you can still let it cool fully before frosting.

The cake must be completely cool before frosting. Warm cake can melt the cream cheese frosting.

Letting it cool fully helps the frosting spread cleanly. This step is worth the wait.

Step 16: Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter

In a mixing bowl, beat 8 ounces softened cream cheese with ¼ cup softened unsalted butter. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Both the cream cheese and butter should be at room temperature for easy mixing. Soft ingredients create a smoother frosting.

Beat until no lumps remain. A smooth base makes the frosting easier to finish.

Step 17: Add Powdered Sugar and Cinnamon

Gradually add 3 cups powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Mix until well combined and fluffy.

Sifted powdered sugar helps avoid lumps. Add it gradually so it blends smoothly.

The cinnamon gives the frosting its warm spice flavor. It should be evenly mixed throughout.

Step 18: Add Vanilla and Adjust Consistency

Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and mix again. The vanilla ties the frosting together.

If the frosting is too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons milk to reach your desired consistency. Add the milk slowly.

If the frosting becomes too thin, add more powdered sugar a little at a time. For a richer texture, use less milk when mixing.

Step 19: Frost the Cake

Once the cake is completely cooled, place it on a serving platter if desired. Spread the cinnamon cream cheese frosting generously over the top.

Let the frosting spill slightly over the edges for a homemade look. Use a spatula to create soft swirls if you like.

Make sure the cake is fully cool before this step. Cool cake keeps the frosting thick and creamy.

Step 20: Slice and Serve

Slice the frosted cake into pieces. Serve and enjoy the moist applesauce cake with its cinnamon cream cheese topping.

For a festive touch, add a sprinkle of cinnamon on top of the frosting. Apple slices can also be used for a beautiful presentation.

Serve at room temperature for the best flavor. The cake is soft, spiced, creamy, and ready to share.

Serving Ideas

Serve Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting at room temperature. The flavor is best when the cake is soft and the frosting is creamy.

A cup of coffee pairs beautifully with this cake. The warm spices and cream cheese frosting make it a cozy coffee treat.

Tea is another lovely pairing. It makes the cake feel right for afternoon dessert or a quiet evening slice.

For a festive touch, sprinkle cinnamon over the frosting. This adds a simple finish without changing the cake.

Apple slices can be used as garnish. They make the presentation feel fresh and pretty.

This cake works for fall gatherings, celebrations, rainy days, family dessert, or any moment when a soft spiced cake sounds comforting.

Storage

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 5 days.

Because the frosting contains cream cheese, refrigeration is important. Keep the container sealed so the cake stays moist.

Let slices sit briefly at room temperature before serving if you prefer a softer texture. The frosting will feel creamier that way.

Store cut slices carefully so the frosting stays neat. If stacking, protect the frosting as much as possible.

Reheating

This cake does not need reheating. It is best served at room temperature.

If chilled, let a slice rest at room temperature before eating. This helps the cake soften and brings out the flavor.

Do not heat the frosted cake too much. Warmth can melt the cream cheese frosting.

If you prefer a slightly softer slice, room-temperature resting is the safest choice. The cake will still taste moist and fresh.

Freezing

This cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.

Wrapping slices well helps protect them from freezer burn. It also makes it easy to thaw only what you need.

Thaw at room temperature before enjoying. Give the slice enough time to soften fully.

Freezing makes this cake convenient for future cravings. You can enjoy a slice anytime you want something sweet.

Make-Ahead

This cake can be made a day ahead. For the best texture, frost it before serving.

Baking the cake ahead gives it time to cool completely. That makes frosting easier later.

Store the unfrosted cake properly until ready to decorate. Then prepare or spread the frosting before serving.

This make-ahead option is helpful for gatherings. It gives you less to do on the day you plan to serve dessert.

Helpful Notes for Best Results

Use fresh baking powder and baking soda. Fresh leavening helps the cake rise properly.

Use softened butter for both the cake and frosting. Room-temperature butter mixes more smoothly.

Do not overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients. Stir only until combined.

Let the cake cool completely before frosting. Warm cake can melt the cinnamon cream cheese frosting.

Sift the powdered sugar for the smoothest frosting. This helps avoid lumps.

Use milk only if needed to adjust frosting consistency. Add 1–2 tablespoons slowly.

For a lighter version, replace half of the sugar with applesauce or a sugar substitute. This changes the sweetness and texture.

For a vegan option, swap the eggs for flax eggs and use plant-based butter and cream cheese. Flax eggs are made with 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed and 2.5 tablespoons water, then left to sit for about 5 minutes until thickened.

Variations

Walnut Applesauce Cake

Add chopped walnuts to the batter. They bring a delightful crunch.

Walnuts pair well with cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and applesauce. This variation makes the cake feel more textured.

Pecan Applesauce Cake

Use chopped pecans for another nutty option. Pecans add richness and crunch.

They work well with the cinnamon cream cheese frosting. Use them when you want a slightly different nut flavor.

Whole Wheat Applesauce Cake

Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This gives the cake a healthier twist.

The texture will be heartier. The applesauce helps keep the cake moist.

Pumpkin Spice Cake

Use pumpkin puree instead of applesauce. This creates a pumpkin spice cake.

The warm spices still fit perfectly. This is a fun fall variation.

Dairy-Free Applesauce Cake

Use coconut cream cheese and vegan butter. This creates a dairy-free direction for the frosting.

Plant-based butter and cream cheese can also be used for a vegan option. The texture and flavor may vary.

Raisin Applesauce Cake

Stir raisins into the batter. They add chewy sweetness.

This variation makes the cake feel more old-fashioned. It works well with the spices.

Dried Cranberry Applesauce Cake

Add dried cranberries. They bring fruitiness and a little color.

The cranberries give the cake a festive touch. They pair nicely with cinnamon and cream cheese frosting.

Ginger Applesauce Cake

Add a pinch of ginger. It brings another warm spice note.

Use only a small amount. It should add depth without overpowering the cinnamon.

Cardamom Applesauce Cake

Add a pinch of cardamom. This gives the cake an aromatic twist.

Cardamom changes the spice profile slightly. It makes the cake feel a little more unique.

Seed-Topped Nut-Free Cake

If you need to avoid nuts, omit them or use seeds instead. Seeds can add texture without nuts.

The cake stays flavorful even without add-ins. The applesauce and spices are enough to carry it.

Coconut Sugar Applesauce Cake

Substitute half the granulated sugar with coconut sugar. This gives the cake a deeper flavor.

The sweetness may taste different. It works well with the warm spices.

Troubleshooting

Why Is My Cake Dry?

The cake may have baked too long. Check around the 30-minute mark with a toothpick.

The toothpick should come out clean, but the cake should not be overbaked. Applesauce helps keep it moist when baked properly.

Why Is My Cake Too Dense?

The batter may have been overmixed after the dry ingredients were added. Stir gently until just combined.

Fresh baking powder and baking soda also matter. Old leavening can affect the rise.

Why Did My Frosting Turn Lumpy?

The cream cheese or butter may not have been softened enough. Use room-temperature ingredients for easy mixing.

Sifting the powdered sugar also helps. Beat the cream cheese and butter smooth before adding sugar.

Why Is My Frosting Too Thin?

Too much milk may have been added. Add more powdered sugar a little at a time until the frosting thickens.

Next time, add milk slowly. You may only need a small amount or none at all.

Why Is My Frosting Too Thick?

Add 1–2 tablespoons milk as needed. Add it slowly until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.

Mix well after each small addition. It is easier to thin frosting gradually than to fix frosting that is too runny.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Freeze Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting?

Yes, this cake can be frozen. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.

It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

What Can I Substitute for Eggs in This Recipe?

You can use flax eggs as a substitute. To make a flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons water.

Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens. This works well for binding in the cake.

How Do I Make the Frosting Thicker?

If the frosting is too thin, add more powdered sugar a little at a time. Keep mixing until you reach your desired thickness.

For a richer texture, use less milk when mixing. Add milk only if the frosting truly needs it.

Can I Make This Cake Vegan?

Yes, use flax eggs instead of eggs and plant-based butter and cream cheese. This creates a vegan option.

The texture and flavor may change depending on the products used. Follow the same general method.

Can I Add Nuts?

Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans can be added. They give the cake a delightful crunch.

If you have a nut allergy, omit nuts or use seeds instead. The cake is still delicious without them.

Can I Make the Cake Ahead?

Yes, the cake can be made a day ahead. For the best texture, frost it before serving.

Make sure the cake is completely cool before frosting. Store properly until ready to serve.

What Should I Serve With Applesauce Cake?

Serve the cake with coffee or tea. It also looks beautiful with a sprinkle of cinnamon or apple slices on top.

The cake tastes best at room temperature. This lets the crumb and frosting feel soft and creamy.

Why This Recipe Works So Well

Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting works because it balances moisture, spice, sweetness, and tangy frosting. The applesauce keeps the cake tender, while the spices give it warmth.

The butter and sugars create a rich cake base. Brown sugar adds moisture, and granulated sugar brings sweetness.

The cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves make the cake cozy. They give every slice that warm, comforting flavor.

The frosting brings creaminess and contrast. Cream cheese balances the sweet cake with a gentle tang.

Cinnamon in the frosting ties the topping back to the spice in the cake. Vanilla makes both the cake and frosting taste rounder.

The recipe also works because it is flexible. Nuts, whole wheat flour, pumpkin puree, dairy-free swaps, raisins, dried cranberries, ginger, cardamom, seeds, sugar substitutes, and vegan options can all make the cake fit different needs.

Final Thoughts

Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is moist, warmly spiced, creamy, and deeply comforting. It brings together unsweetened applesauce, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, vanilla, soft cake crumb, and rich cinnamon cream cheese frosting in a dessert that feels cozy any time of year.

I love how this cake makes a simple afternoon feel warmer. The batter comes together easily, the oven fills the kitchen with spice, and the frosting turns the cooled cake into something that feels ready for sharing.

Serve it at room temperature with coffee or tea, add a sprinkle of cinnamon, garnish with apple slices, or freeze slices for later. Whether you bake it for fall, a celebration, a rainy day, or a quiet family dessert, this Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting brings comfort to every slice.

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Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

This Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is moist, warmly spiced, and topped with a smooth, rich frosting that makes every slice feel cozy and homemade. With unsweetened applesauce, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, brown sugar, and a creamy cinnamon frosting, it is a comforting dessert for family gatherings, fall baking, holidays, or an easy sweet treat after dinner.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Course: Dessert
• Cuisine: American
• Servings: 8 people
• Calories: 350 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• baking pan

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 1 ½ cups unsweetened applesauce
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves

For the Frosting

• 1-2 tablespoons milk optional, for desired consistency
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a baking pan.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In another bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, then mix well.

Step 5: Stir in the Applesauce

Stir the unsweetened applesauce into the wet mixture until combined.

Step 6: Combine the Batter

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 8: Make the Frosting

For the frosting, beat together the softened cream cheese and softened butter until smooth.

Step 9: Finish the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Gradually add the powdered sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Add milk if needed for consistency.

Step 10: Frost and Serve

Once the cake has cooled, spread the frosting over the top and serve.

Notes

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a cozy dessert with coffee, hot tea, or cold milk.
• Add to a fall dessert table with cookies, bars, or pumpkin treats.
• Serve after a family dinner when you want something warmly spiced and comforting.
• Chill before slicing if you prefer a firmer cream cheese frosting.
• Cut into 8 servings once the cake has cooled and the frosting is spread evenly.

Storage

How to Store

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Best Texture Tip

Let the cake cool completely before adding the frosting so the cinnamon cream cheese topping stays smooth and thick.

Serving Tip

For cleaner slices, refrigerate the frosted cake briefly before cutting.