Satisfy Your Sweet Cravings: 5-Ingredient Applesauce Cake
Welcome to the realm of effortless baking where simplicity meets satisfaction. Our 5-Ingredient Applesauce Cake recipe is a testament to the beauty of minimalism, offering a delightful treat with just a handful of ingredients. Bursting with the warm, comforting flavors of apples and spice, this cake is a perfect accompaniment to your morning coffee or an afternoon tea. Join us on a journey of culinary bliss as we explore the simplicity and indulgence of this delightful dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 (15.25 oz.) package yellow cake mix
- 1 tablespoon apple pie spice mix
- 3 eggs
- 2 cups unsweetened applesauce
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Optional: Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1-2 tablespoons whole milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix and apple pie spice mix. Stir until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the cake mix.
- Add the eggs, unsweetened applesauce, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined and no lumps remain.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- While the cake is cooling, prepare the optional glaze. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, cinnamon, and whole milk until smooth and pourable.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake, allowing it to set before slicing and serving.
Cook Notes and Variations
- For added texture and flavor, stir in chopped nuts or raisins into the cake batter before baking.
- Substitute the yellow cake mix with a spice cake mix for a richer, more decadent flavor.
- Top the cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
Keto Version:
- Replace the yellow cake mix with a keto-friendly cake mix made with almond flour or coconut flour.
- Use a sugar-free apple pie spice mix and unsweetened applesauce to keep the cake low in carbs.
- Substitute the powdered sugar in the glaze with a powdered erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
Low-Carb Version:
- Use a low-carb yellow cake mix or make your own using almond flour, coconut flour, and a low-carb sweetener.
- Reduce the amount of unsweetened applesauce and add a bit of almond milk or coconut milk to adjust the consistency of the batter.
- Omit the glaze or use a low-carb glaze made with powdered erythritol, cinnamon, and almond milk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use homemade applesauce instead of store-bought? A: Yes, you can use homemade applesauce in this recipe. Just be sure it’s unsweetened and has a smooth consistency.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time? A: Yes, you can bake the cake ahead of time and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Add the glaze just before serving.
Q: Can I freeze leftover cake? A: Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: Can I use a different flavor of cake mix? A: While yellow cake mix complements the flavors of applesauce and spice, you can experiment with different flavors such as white, spice, or even apple cinnamon for a unique twist.
Q: Can I skip the glaze? A: Yes, the glaze is optional. The cake is delicious on its own, or you can dust it with powdered sugar for a simple finishing touch.
In conclusion, 5-Ingredient Applesauce Cake is a delightful treat that proves you don’t need a long list of ingredients to create something truly delicious. With its simplicity and versatility, this cake is perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. Whether enjoyed on its own or dressed up with a sweet glaze, each bite is a moment of pure bliss. So, embrace the simplicity, indulge in the flavor, and treat yourself to the sweet satisfaction of 5-Ingredient Applesauce Cake!