Pumpkin Applesauce Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

This Pumpkin Applesauce Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe is a true celebration of cozy autumn flavors. Imagine warm spices wafting through your home as the cake bakes, perfectly filling the air with hints of pumpkin and apples. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner or simply enjoying a chilly fall afternoon, this cake is a delightful choice. The combination of applesauce’s natural sweetness and pumpkin’s rich texture creates a moist, tender crumb that you’ll absolutely love. And that cream cheese frosting? It’s the tangy, creamy finishing touch that brings everything together. So, grab your apron and let’s get baking!

Why This Recipe Works

This Pumpkin Applesauce Cake is a delightful fusion of flavors that perfectly embodies the essence of fall. Combining the natural sweetness of applesauce with the warm spices of pumpkin creates a moist and tender cake. The subtle cream cheese frosting adds a rich and tangy contrast that elevates this dessert to a whole new level, making it a must-try for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Applesauce Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

You will adore this Pumpkin Applesauce Cake not only for its incredible taste but also for its effortless preparation. Ideal for Thanksgiving gatherings or cozy autumn get-togethers, this cake combines the warmth of spices with a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. Plus, the cream cheese frosting brings a deliciously creamy touch, making each bite irresistible.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon pumpkin spice
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup refined coconut oil (melted, then cooled)
• 15 oz. pumpkin puree
• ¾ cup applesauce
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 oz. cream cheese (softened)
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon milk

The Cake Batter Preparation

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin spice, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and all-purpose flour until well combined. This step is crucial because it evenly distributes the leavening agents and spices, making sure every bite is flavorful.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the melted coconut oil, pumpkin puree, applesauce, vanilla extract, and granulated sugar until smooth. This blend creates a moist base for your cake and adds a lovely sweetness as well.

Combine Mixtures

Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake. You want a few lumps in the batter; they’ll bake out nicely.

Baking the Cake

Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into a prepared bundt cake pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. Patience here is key; rushing can result in a cake that falls apart.

The Cream Cheese Frosting

Prepare the Frosting

In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk. Mix until smooth and creamy, adjusting the milk to reach your desired consistency. You want it spreadable yet thick enough to stay on the cake without sliding off.

Frost the Cake

Transfer the frosting into a Ziploc bag, snip off a small corner, and drizzle it over the cooled cake for a beautiful finish. This technique isn’t just pretty; it also allows for precise distribution of frosting.

Serving Suggestions

Serve slices of this Pumpkin Applesauce Cake with a dollop of whipped cream on top or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. These pairings elevate the cake experience, adding layers of flavor and texture.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the coconut oil is cooled before mixing to prevent cooking the eggs.
• Use a toothpick to check for doneness, as all ovens may vary in baking times.
• Allow the cake to cool thoroughly to ensure the frosting does not melt off.

Variations

• Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for added texture. These not only boost flavor but also add a delightful crunch.
• Incorporate dried cranberries or raisins into the batter for extra sweetness. These little additions can really enhance the taste profile.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to a week. It can also be frozen for longer storage. Just remember to wrap it well to avoid freezer burn.

Pairing Ideas

Pair this cake with a warm cup of spiced chai or a classic cup of coffee to enhance its rich flavors. The warmth and spices from the beverages complement the cake beautifully.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
A1: Yes, but make sure to cook and puree the fresh pumpkin until smooth before measuring it.

Q2: Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream cheese in the frosting?
A2: Yes! You can use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative or coconut cream for a similar texture.

Q3: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A3: Absolutely! This cake stays moist for several days and is perfect for making in advance.

Q4: How thick should the frosting be?
A4: The frosting should be creamy enough to drizzle but thick enough to hold its shape. Adjust with milk as necessary.

Q5: What is the best way to serve this cake?
A5: It is best served slightly warm or at room temperature, allowing the flavors to shine.

This Pumpkin Applesauce Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is not only a seasonal favorite but also an easy recipe to master. With its moist texture, delightful flavors, and a creamy frosting that complements every bite, this cake is sure to become a staple in your autumn dessert rotation. Whether for special gatherings or a quiet family treat, this recipe encapsulates the comfort and joy of fall baking. Enjoy every delicious bite!

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