There are some desserts that feel like they belong to a season, and this Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is pure autumn in every bite. Moist, spiced, and topped with a cloud of cinnamon-kissed cream cheese frosting, it’s the kind of cake that makes you want to wrap yourself in a blanket, light a candle, and put on your coziest socks.

This isn’t just a fall cake—it’s the kind of dessert that bridges generations. The warm cinnamon and nutmeg are straight out of grandma’s kitchen, while the tangy-sweet frosting adds just enough flair to keep everyone coming back for seconds. And because it uses applesauce as a base, it stays tender and moist for days (not that it’s likely to last that long).

Whether you’re looking for an autumn baking project, a spiced applesauce dessert for a family gathering, or a simple yet impressive treat for a potluck, this cake is your answer. No fancy equipment needed, no fussy layers—just one pan, a whisk, and a little love.

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

Incredibly moist spice cake texture thanks to applesauce and oil.
The cinnamon cream cheese frosting is rich, tangy, and not too sweet.
Perfect for fall gatherings, bake sales, or a “just because” treat.
Easy to make—no mixer required for the cake itself.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

2 cups (475 g) unsweetened applesauce
2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups (300 g) brown sugar, packed
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
2 large eggs
1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Frosting:

8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup (113 g) butter, softened
4 cups (480 g) powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp ground cinnamon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Mix wet ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together applesauce, brown sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
Combine dry ingredients – In another bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Make the batter – Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined (don’t overmix).
Bake – Pour into prepared pan, spread evenly, and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool – Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting.
Make the frosting – Beat cream cheese, butter, and vanilla until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and cinnamon, mixing until fluffy.
Frost and serve – Spread evenly over cooled cake, garnish if desired, slice, and enjoy.

Baking Tips for a Perfect Cinnamon Frosting Cake

Make sure the cake is completely cool before frosting to prevent melting.
For extra flavor, add 1/2 tsp ground ginger to the batter.
If you like a thicker frosting layer, double the recipe.
Chopped walnuts or pecans make a beautiful garnish and add a nice crunch.
This cake tastes even better the next day after the spices have mingled.

A Little Kitchen Story

This cake started as a way to use up leftover applesauce from making my kids’ lunchbox snacks. I threw in cinnamon, nutmeg, and a splash of vanilla, baked it up, and topped it with cream cheese frosting “just because.” The smell that filled my kitchen was so intoxicating, the kids came running before it even came out of the oven.

Now, it’s a must-have at every fall gathering. My dad swears it tastes like the one his mom used to make, and my sister always sneaks a second slice “for later.” Spoiler: it never actually makes it to “later.”

What to Serve with Applesauce Cake

This cake pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai tea. For a dessert spread, place it next to pumpkin pie and pecan bars for a true autumn baking showcase. If you’re feeling indulgent, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce for a bakery-worthy treat.

How to Store

Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If chilled, let the cake sit out for about 20 minutes before serving so the frosting softens. You can also freeze unfrosted cake for up to 2 months—just wrap it tightly in plastic and foil. Frost after thawing for best results.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes—bake, cool, and store unfrosted for up to 2 days, then frost before serving.

Can I use sweetened applesauce?

You can, but reduce the brown sugar by about 1/4 cup to balance the sweetness.

Can I make cupcakes with this recipe?

Absolutely—just reduce baking time to 18–20 minutes.

Can I add raisins or nuts?

Yes! Stir in 1 cup of raisins or chopped walnuts for extra texture.

This Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting is more than just a moist spice cake—it’s the dessert equivalent of a cozy sweater. Simple to make, full of warm spices, and topped with the creamiest frosting, it’s a recipe you’ll reach for every fall…and maybe a few times in winter, too.

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