Olivia Walton’s Applesauce Cake Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a warm, comforting dessert that brings a cozy slice of home to your table, Olivia Walton’s Applesauce Cake Recipe is a perfect pick. This cake is tender and moist, bursting with the natural sweetness and subtle tartness of unsweetened applesauce, beautifully complemented by warming spices like cinnamon and cloves. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this delightful recipe balances flavors and textures so effortlessly you’ll find it becoming a beloved classic in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The charm of Olivia Walton’s Applesauce Cake Recipe lies in its simplicity and the thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Every component plays a crucial role, from the creamy butter that imparts richness to the spices that add inviting warmth. The applesauce keeps the cake moist without overloading on sugar, and optional add-ins like walnuts or raisins introduce delightful bursts of texture and flavor.

• Unsweetened applesauce (1 cup): The star ingredient that keeps the cake moist and naturally sweet without excess sugar.
• Granulated sugar (1 cup): Provides just the right amount of sweetness to balance the applesauce.
• Butter, softened (½ cup): Adds richness and a tender crumb to the cake.
• Large eggs (2): Bind everything together and contribute to the cake’s structure.
• All-purpose flour (2 cups): The base that gives the cake its body and light texture.
• Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Helps the cake rise and stay light.
• Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Brings warm, familiar spice notes that sing with apples.
• Ground cloves (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle, complex depth to the spice mix.
• Salt (¼ teaspoon): Balances out sweetness and enhances flavors.
• Buttermilk (½ cup): Or regular milk works too—adds moisture and a slight tanginess for softness.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Elevates the overall flavor with a delicate sweetness.
• Chopped walnuts or raisins (1 cup, optional): For optional crunchy or chewy texture and extra flavor dimension.
• Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional): Adds a pretty finishing touch and a hint of sweetness.

How to Make Olivia Walton’s Applesauce Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour either a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 8-inch round cake pans. This step ensures your cake will release perfectly after baking and develop a lovely crust.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This is the foundation for your cake’s airy texture, so take your time to get it just right.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs

Add the eggs one by one, beating well after each addition. This process helps emulsify the batter, ensuring it won’t separate and remains smooth.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Combining the dry ingredients ahead avoids clumps and evenly distributes the spices throughout the cake.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the applesauce and buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined to keep the cake tender and avoid overworking the batter.

Step 6: Add Vanilla and Optional Mix-Ins

Stir in the vanilla extract, then gently fold in chopped walnuts or raisins if you like. These add-ins give the cake character and a satisfying bite.

Step 7: Transfer Batter to Pan

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan(s), smoothing the surface with a spatula. An even top helps the cake bake uniformly and look inviting.

Step 8: Bake the Cake

Bake for 30-35 minutes if using a 9×13-inch pan, or 25-30 minutes for 8-inch round pans. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, with no wet batter clinging to it.

Step 9: Cool the Cake

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Cooling properly prevents sogginess and lets the flavors settle beautifully.

Step 10: Finish and Serve

Once completely cooled, dust the cake with powdered sugar if you want that extra touch of sweetness and charm. Then slice, serve, and enjoy your freshly baked Olivia Walton’s Applesauce Cake Recipe.

How to Serve Olivia Walton’s Applesauce Cake Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar works wonders to highlight the cake’s golden top and add a subtle sweetness that complements the spices. For a more decadent experience, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with each slice.

Side Dishes

This cake is comfortable as a standalone treat, but pairing it with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai elevates the experience into a cozy indulgence. For brunch or dessert, a side of fresh apple slices or a light fruit salad complements the applesauce cake flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the cake layered with cream cheese frosting for something more festive or assemble it as a trifle with whipped cream and cinnamon-spiced apples. You could also plate individual slices with a drizzle of caramel sauce and a sprinkle of toasted nuts to impress guests with minimal effort.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Olivia Walton’s Applesauce Cake Recipe fresh by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps the cake moist and the flavors vibrant.

Freezing

This cake freezes wonderfully. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then foil, or store in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to two months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving.

Reheating

To revive the cake’s moist texture, warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or place the whole cake briefly in a low oven. This gentle heat brings softness and enhances the cozy aroma of spices.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, regular milk works fine if you don’t have buttermilk on hand. The cake will be slightly less tangy but still moist and delicious.

What can I substitute for walnuts or raisins?

Feel free to swap in other nuts like pecans, or dried fruits such as chopped dates or cranberries. They all add a lovely texture and flavor dimension.

Is this cake suitable for freezing after baking?

Absolutely! Olivia Walton’s Applesauce Cake Recipe freezes beautifully, making it perfect for baking ahead and saving for later occasions.

How long does the cake stay fresh at room temperature?

Stored properly in an airtight container, the cake remains fresh and moist for about three days when left at room temperature.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can try substituting the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, but results may vary. Look for blends designed for cakes, and consider adding a binder like xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t include it.

Final Thoughts

Olivia Walton’s Applesauce Cake Recipe is one of those comforting treasures that feels like a warm hug from a close friend. Its balance of hearty ingredients, gentle sweetness, and cozy spices is simply irresistible. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started, this recipe is incredibly welcoming and satisfying. I truly hope you give it a try and create some delicious memories around your own table.

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