Carrot Cake With Applesauce – Moist And Flavorful

Carrot cake with applesauce is a moist, lightly spiced dessert made with grated carrots, applesauce, and warm cinnamon. I created this version inspired by My Baking Addiction, but added a few of my own touches to make it unique.

This carrot cake with applesauce is incredibly delicious rich in flavor, soft in texture, and naturally sweet. I’ve baked it many times, each time refining the balance between sweetness and moisture.

I chose to make it more home-style than bakery style, reducing oil and using more applesauce. Now I’m showing exactly how I prepare it step-by-step so others can enjoy it too.

Carrot Cake With Applesauce

Carrot cake with applesauce is a soft, moist cake made with freshly grated carrots and unsweetened applesauce, offering natural sweetness and a tender crumb.

It blends the warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg with the earthy taste of carrots, balanced by the subtle tartness of applesauce. This version is lighter than traditional carrot cake, using less oil while staying just as rich and satisfying.

Chopped nuts add a gentle crunch, and a smooth cream cheese frosting with a hint of applesauce ties it all together. It’s a comforting, homemade dessert that brings a wholesome twist to a classic favorite.

How To Prepare Carrot Cake With Applesauce?

To make this carrot cake with applesauce turn out just right, I’ve laid out each step clearly and simply. You’ll find helpful tips along the way, plus a list of kitchen tools I personally use.

Don’t stress if you’re missing something use what’s on hand, and you’ll still bake a moist, flavorful cake everyone will love.

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Course: Dessert / Snack

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American / Classic

Yield: 10 servings

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Grater (for carrots)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9-inch round cake pan (or equivalent)
• Spatula
• Cooling rack

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup vegetable oil (optional, can reduce or omit)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups finely grated carrots (about 3 medium carrots)
• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans

For the Applesauce Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 1 (3-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 2–3 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How To Make Carrot Cake With Applesauce

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan, or line it with parchment paper so the cake lifts out easily.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, applesauce, vegetable oil (if you’re using it), and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well blended.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, stir together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. These spices will give your cake that warm, cozy flavor.

Step 4: Bring the Batter Together

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Don’t overmix you want the cake to stay tender.

Step 5: Add Carrots and Nuts

Fold in the finely grated carrots and chopped nuts. Mix gently so everything is evenly distributed without deflating the batter.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth out the top. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Make the Frosting

While the cake cools, beat softened cream cheese until creamy and smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until light and fluffy. Stir in vanilla extract and a couple of tablespoons of applesauce. Add a little more applesauce if you prefer a thinner, silkier consistency.

Step 8: Frost and Serve

Once the cake is completely cool, spread the applesauce cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Sprinkle with extra chopped nuts if you’d like a decorative finish. Slice, serve, and enjoy!

Note: Make sure the carrots are finely grated for the best texture. Overly large carrot pieces can make the cake dense and uneven. Also, ensure the cream cheese is softened before making the frosting to avoid lumps and to get a smooth, creamy finish.

Nutrition Facts Of Carrot Cake Applesauce Recipe

Nutrition	Amounts
Calories	280
Fat	14g
Carbohydrates	35g
Protein	3g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	25g

Why Should You Make This Recipe

You should make this carrot cake with applesauce because it’s simple, flavorful, and healthier than most traditional versions. The applesauce adds natural moisture and sweetness, allowing for less oil without sacrificing texture.

Carrot cake with applesauce a great way to use fresh carrots and create a dessert that feels both indulgent and nourishing. The spices are warm and balanced, the crumb is soft, and the light cream cheese frosting brings everything together.

This carrot cake with applesauce is easy to follow, doesn’t require fancy equipment, and turns out consistently every time. Whether baking for family, friends, or just yourself, this cake is always a good idea.

Serving Ideas

◆ Tropical style: Add shredded coconut to the top of the frosting. To enhance the flavor and aroma, you can use toasted coconut.

◆ Candied carrots: For an elegant and impressive garnish, make your own candied carrot decorations. These sweet, glossy carrots add a gourmet touch.

◆ Layer cake: Instead of a single sheet cake, create a layer cake with cream cheese frosting between each layer. This creates a beautiful and impressive presentation for a special occasion.

◆ Mini cupcakes or muffins: Bake the batter in a muffin tin to create individual servings. These are perfect for parties, brunches, or a quick snack.

◆ With ice cream: For a decadent treat, serve a warm slice of applesauce carrot cake with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream.

Tips And Variations

➤ Oil: You can reduce or omit the vegetable oil for a lighter cake, but the texture may be slightly drier. Adding applesauce helps keep it moist.

➤ Nuts: Feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or omit if you have allergies.

➤ Spices: Add a pinch of ginger or cloves for a more spiced flavor.

➤ Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend if needed.

➤ Frosting: For a tangier frosting, add a little lemon juice or swap out some applesauce for Greek yogurt.

Health Benefits

➢ Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene, vitamin A, and fiber, carrots support eye health and digestion.

➢ Applesauce: A natural sweetener and moisture enhancer, applesauce adds fiber and reduces the need for added fats.

➢ Nuts: Provide healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants, contributing to heart health.

➢ Low in Oil: Using applesauce reduces saturated fat, making this cake a healthier dessert option.

Storage Recommendations

For the best storage of carrot cake with applesauce, your primary consideration is the frosting. If you’ve made a cream cheese frosting, which contains perishable dairy, the cake absolutely must be refrigerated.

To prevent it from drying out or absorbing any weird fridge odors, place the cake in an airtight container or cover it with a cake dome.

If you’ve just baked the layers and plan to frost later, let them cool completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and store in the fridge for up to a few days. 

FAQs Carrot Cake With Applesauce

Conclusion

This carrot cake with applesauce is a moist, flavorful treat that combines wholesome ingredients with a rich, creamy frosting. It’s perfect for any occasion from casual family gatherings to festive celebrations.

The use of applesauce not only enhances moisture but also adds a subtle sweetness, making carrot cake with applesauce a healthier alternative to traditional carrot cakes.

With easy steps and versatile variations, this carrot cake with applesauce is sure to become a favorite in your dessert collection. Enjoy every bite!

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