There’s something undeniably comforting about a warmly spiced cake straight from the oven. When it’s easy to make, filled with wholesome ingredients, and 100% plant-based, it becomes a must-have in any kitchen. This Vegan Applesauce Cake checks every box: it’s moist, fluffy, simple, and perfect for autumn—or any time you crave a cozy dessert.
Made with pantry staples and naturally sweetened with applesauce, this cake is ideal for those avoiding eggs or dairy, without compromising on flavor or texture. Whether you serve it as a snack, breakfast treat, or frosted dessert, this applesauce cake is guaranteed to please.
Why You’ll Love This Vegan Applesauce Cake
- Incredibly moist and tender, thanks to the applesauce
- Perfectly spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and more
- Egg-free, dairy-free, and totally vegan
- One-bowl recipe – quick to mix and easy to clean up
- Customizable with add-ins like raisins, nuts, or a maple glaze
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for the base recipe:
- 1 ½ cups (375g) unsweetened applesauce
- ½ cup (120ml) neutral oil (like canola, sunflower, or light olive oil)
- ¾ cup (150g) brown sugar or coconut sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground ginger (optional)
- ¼ tsp allspice or cloves (optional)
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ½ cup raisins or chopped dates
- 1–2 tbsp maple syrup for drizzling
- Icing sugar or vegan frosting for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Lightly grease an 8-inch square or round baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the applesauce, oil, sugar, vanilla extract, and apple cider vinegar. Whisk until smooth and well blended.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Sift in the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and any other spices you’re using. Gently fold everything together using a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 4: Add Optional Extras
If you’re including chopped nuts, raisins, or dried fruit, fold them in now.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 32–38 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Baking time may vary depending on your oven and the size of your pan.
Step 6: Cool and Frost
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, top with a dusting of icing sugar, a maple glaze, or your favorite vegan frosting.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Slice and serve. This cake pairs beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee.
Optional Frosting Ideas
- Maple glaze: Mix powdered sugar with a splash of maple syrup and plant milk until pourable.
- Vegan cream cheese frosting: Blend vegan butter, vegan cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Simple icing sugar dusting: For a lighter, rustic finish.
Tips & Variations
- Make it gluten-free: Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
- Lower sugar: Reduce sugar slightly if you prefer less sweetness, or use maple syrup.
- Oil-free version: Try replacing oil with more applesauce for a fat-free option, though texture will be slightly denser.
- Make muffins: Pour into a muffin tray and reduce baking time to 18–22 minutes.
How to Store
- Store at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
- For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freeze slices for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Final Thoughts
This vegan applesauce cake is a beautiful blend of simplicity and flavor. It’s the kind of recipe that feels nostalgic—like something your grandmother might have made—but modern in its plant-based approach. The applesauce keeps the crumb incredibly moist while the spices make every bite warm and inviting.
Whether you enjoy it plain, glazed, or fully frosted, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your home. Ideal for cozy fall days, potlucks, or simply as a mid-week treat.