Go Back
–+ servings
Slice of moist Vegan Applesauce Cake on a plate, decorated with fresh apples.

Vegan Applesauce Cake

This Vegan Applesauce Cake, made with simple pantry ingredients and warm spices, is a moist and comforting treat that captures the flavors of fall. Perfect with tea or coffee, it’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American, Vegan
Servings 8 slices
Calories 180 kcal

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (or 1:1 gluten-free flour) For gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour blend.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar) Coconut sugar can be used for a different flavor.
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1.5 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 0.5 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 0.25 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1.5 cups unsweetened applesauce Unsweetened preferred to control sugar level.
  • 0.5 cups neutral oil (like canola or light olive oil)
  • 2 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tbsp warm water (flax eggs) Let sit for 5 minutes until gelled.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Zest of 1 small lemon lemon (optional) Brightens the flavor.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round or 8x8-inch square pan, or line with parchment.
  • Mix the ground flaxseed with warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until gelled.

Combine Ingredients

  • In a large bowl, whisk together all dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  • In a separate bowl, stir together the wet ingredients: applesauce, oil, flax egg, vanilla, and lemon zest until smooth.
  • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and fold until just combined, leaving a few lumps as overmixing will result in a tougher crumb.

Baking

  • Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30–40 minutes (around 35–40 minutes for an 8x8 pan) or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  • Let cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a rack. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Notes

For added texture, fold in ½ cup chopped walnuts or raisins. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It freezes well for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 2gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 12g
Keyword fall desserts, simple cake, spiced cake, Vegan Applesauce Cake, vegan baking
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!