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–+ servings
Applesauce Spice Cake
Applesauce Spice Cake combines the nostalgic warmth of spiced cakes with the moist richness of applesauce and pudding mix. Originating from mid-century kitchen trends, this recipe makes use of convenience products like boxed cake mix and instant pudding, reflecting a time when home cooks sought both flavor and simplicity. The addition of cinnamon, nutmeg, and optional allspice creates a perfectly cozy dessert, while the applesauce keeps the crumb tender. Optional chopped raisins add a chewy burst of sweetness, making it ideal for cool-weather gatherings or teatime treats.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Cooling Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 16
Calories 247 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pkg yellow cake mix (2-layer size )
  • 1 pkg Jell-O vanilla instant pudding & pie filling (4-serving size)
  • 1 cup applesauce (Mott’s )
  • ½ cup water
  • ¼ cup vegetable oil
  • 4 eggs
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ¼ tsp ground allspice (optional)
  • ½ cup raisins (finely chopped, optional)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Mix Ingredients

  • Combine all ingredients in a large mixer bowl.
  • Blend well until evenly mixed.

Step 2: Beat Batter

  • Beat at medium speed with an electric mixer for 4 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare Pans

  • Grease and flour two 8x4 inch loaf pans.

Step 4: Bake

  • Pour batter evenly into prepared pans.
  • Bake at 350°F for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Do not underbake.

Step 5: Cool

  • Cool in pans for 15 minutes before removing.

Tips

  • Substitute chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) for raisins for extra texture.
  • Add ½ tsp cloves for a deeper spice profile.
  • Use spiced applesauce to intensify flavor.
  • Replace oil with melted butter for richer taste.
  • Add a simple powdered sugar glaze after cooling.
  • Bake in a bundt pan (adjust baking time to ~60 minutes).
  • Fold in ½ cup mini chocolate chips for a fun twist.
  • Use cinnamon applesauce for stronger warm-spice notes.
  • Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for a dessert-style version.
  • Wrap and rest overnight—the flavor improves next day.

Nutrition

Calories: 247kcalCarbohydrates: 43gProtein: 4gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 55mgSodium: 337mgPotassium: 106mgFiber: 1gSugar: 21gVitamin A: 86IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 103mgIron: 1mg
Keyword applesauce cake, cozy, dessert, easy baking, fall recipe, heirloom, loaf cake, spice cake, vintage
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