Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Special equipment needed:
- 9-inch square baking pan
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch square baking pan with butter or cooking spray.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Add the applesauce and mix until well combined.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
7. Fold in the chopped walnuts, if using.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
10. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Temperature:
350°F (175°C)
Serving size:
9 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 315
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 68mg
Sodium: 281mg
Carbohydrates: 43g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 24g
Protein: 5g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
- You can use vegetable oil instead of butter.
- You can use pecans or almonds instead of walnuts.
Variations:
- You can add raisins or dried cranberries to the batter.
- You can add a cream cheese frosting on top of the cake.
- You can add a streusel topping made of brown sugar, flour, and butter.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before beating it with the sugar.
- Don't overmix the batter to avoid a tough cake.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing it.
Storage instructions:
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- You can microwave a slice of cake for 10-15 seconds to warm it up.
Presentation ideas:
- Dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar.
- Serve the cake with a dollop of whipped cream.
Garnishes:
- Chopped walnuts or pecans
- Cinnamon sticks
- Apple slices
Pairings:
- Hot tea or coffee
- Vanilla ice cream
Suggested side dishes:
- Fresh fruit salad
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cake is too dry, you may have overbaked it. Check the cake 5 minutes before the recommended baking time.
- If the cake is too wet, you may have added too much applesauce. Use the exact amount of applesauce indicated in the recipe.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before preparing the cake.
- Use fresh ingredients and check the expiration dates.
- Store the cake properly to avoid spoilage.
Food history:
- Apple sauce cake is a traditional American dessert that dates back to the early 1900s. It was a popular recipe during the Great Depression when ingredients were scarce.
Flavor profiles:
- This cake has a warm and comforting flavor profile thanks to the cinnamon and nutmeg. The applesauce adds a subtle sweetness and moisture to the cake.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the cake as a dessert or as a sweet snack.
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Taste: Sweet, Moist, Spicy, Cinnamon, Apple, Cinnamon-Y, Apple-Y