Recipe for carrot cake with applesauce is a delightful twist on a timeless classic, combining the moist, spiced goodness of traditional carrot cake with the subtle, fruity sweetness of applesauce.
This innovative recipe not only enhances the cake’s texture but also infuses it with an extra layer of flavor, making it a standout choice for any occasion.
Perfect for family gatherings, festive celebrations, or a cozy weekend treat, this carrot cake is sure to impress with its rich, aromatic spices and tender crumb.
A long-time fan of carrot cake or new to this scrumptious dessert, adding applesauce promises a wonderfully moist and flavorful experience that is both comforting and sophisticated.
Plus, the addition of applesauce makes it a tad healthier without compromising on taste. Let’s dive into the details!
Prepare Recipe For Carrot Cake With Applesauce
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Servings: 12 slices
Recommend Tools Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Additional Ingredients
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
How To Make Recipe For Carrot Cake With Applesauce
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and applesauce until smooth. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vegetable oil and vanilla extract.
Step 4: Incorporate the Carrots and Pineapple
Gently fold the grated carrots and crushed pineapple into the wet mixture until evenly distributed.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense. If using, fold in the chopped nuts.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Special Note
For an added touch of indulgence, top your carrot cake with a classic cream cheese frosting.
Simply beat together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup of softened butter, 2 cups of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Spread over the cooled cake and enjoy!
Nutritional Amount Recipe For Carrot Cake With Applesauce
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Total Fat | 14g |
| Cholesterol | 50mg |
| Sodium | 270mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Sugars | 30g |
| Protein | 4g |
Health Benefits
Carrot cake with applesauce offers several health benefits that can make this delicious dessert a slightly more nutritious option. Here are five notable health benefits:
1. Improved Digestive Health:
Carrots and applesauce both contain dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain regular bowel movements.
The fiber in these ingredients can support a healthy digestive system and may help prevent constipation.
2. Enhanced Nutrient Intake:
Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. This essential vitamin supports healthy vision, boosts immune function, and promotes skin health.
Applesauce adds additional vitamins and antioxidants, contributing to a more nutrient-dense dessert.
3. Lower Sugar Content:
By using applesauce as a natural sweetener, you can reduce the amount of refined sugar in the recipe.
Applesauce provides a natural sweetness with fewer calories and less added sugar, making the dessert a bit healthier without sacrificing taste.
4. Antioxidant Benefits:
Carrots and apples both contain antioxidants, including vitamin C and various phytochemicals. These antioxidants help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation in the body, potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases.
5. Heart Health:
The inclusion of nuts (if added to the recipe) and the reduction of refined sugars contribute to heart health.
Nuts provide healthy fats, fiber, and important nutrients like vitamin E, which can support cardiovascular health and help manage cholesterol levels.
What Does Applesauce Do TO A Cake?
Applesauce serves as a fantastic substitute for oil or butter in cakes, making them lower in fat and calories while retaining their moist texture.
It adds natural sweetness and a subtle apple flavor, enhancing the overall taste. Additionally, applesauce is a great way to incorporate more fruit into your baked goods, adding extra fiber and nutrients.
What Are The Ingredients In A Carrot Cake?
A classic carrot cake typically includes grated carrots, all-purpose flour, sugar (both granulated and brown), eggs, oil, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
Additional ingredients can include crushed pineapple for extra moisture, chopped nuts for texture, and sometimes raisins or shredded coconut. The cake is often topped with a rich cream cheese frosting.
Can You Substitute Oil With Applesauce In Carrot Cake?
You can substitute oil with applesauce in carrot cake. Using applesauce instead of oil can significantly reduce the fat content while keeping the cake moist and tender.
The general rule of thumb is to replace the oil with an equal amount of applesauce, though you may start with a half-and-half ratio to test how it affects the texture and flavor of your cake.
Conclusion
This recipe for carrot cake with applesauce brings a delightful twist to a traditional favorite. The addition of applesauce ensures a moist, tender crumb, while the spices and optional pineapple and nuts add layers of flavor and texture.
The cream cheese frosting adds a rich, tangy contrast to the sweet cake, making each bite a perfect blend of flavors.
Enjoy this cake as a special dessert, a charming addition to any celebration, or simply as a treat to brighten your day.
With its balanced flavors and moist texture, it’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your baking repertoire.
Recipe For Carrot Cake With Applesauce
Equipment
- Largemixing bowl
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Additional Ingredients
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple drained
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans optional
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
- In a medium mixing bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and applesauce until smooth. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vegetable oil and vanilla extract.
Step 4: Incorporate the Carrots and Pineapple
- Gently fold the grated carrots and crushed pineapple into the wet mixture until evenly distributed.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense. If using, fold in the chopped nuts.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.