Why Make This Recipe
Applesauce Cake with Brown Butter Maple Buttercream is a delightful dessert that perfectly blends sweetness and spice. With moist layers of cake complemented by creamy frosting, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any gathering. The combination of applesauce and spices delivers a comforting flavor, reminiscent of homemade treats.
This cake is ideal for autumn celebrations, family gatherings, or simply to enjoy a cozy night at home. The unique brown butter frosting adds a rich, nutty flavor that elevates the entire dessert.
Equipment Needed for Applesauce Cake with Brown Butter Maple Buttercream
To create this delicious cake, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools. A whisk and a mixing bowl will help you combine the dry and wet ingredients smoothly. A 9×13-inch baking pan is essential for giving the cake its shape.
You’ll also need measuring cups and spoons to get the ingredient quantities just right. A saucepan is required for browning the butter, and a spatula or knife is helpful for spreading the frosting evenly over the cake. Lastly, a cooling rack is useful for allowing the cake to cool properly before frosting.
What You Need to Make Applesauce Cake with Brown Butter Maple Buttercream
Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 cup each granulated & brown sugar
- 1 1/2 cups chunky applesauce
- 1/2 cup oil
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla
- 2 tsp apple pie spice
Frosting:
- 2 sticks butter (browned)
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/3 cup maple syrup
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 1/4 tsp salt
Optional:
How to Cook Applesauce Cake Step by Step
To begin, preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by spraying it with baking spray to prevent the cake from sticking. Once your oven is ready, the fun part begins!
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all dry cake ingredients: flour, baking soda, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and apple pie spice. This step ensures the spices and leavening agent are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Next, you’ll want to incorporate the wet ingredients. Add the chunky applesauce, oil, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract to the bowl with the dry ingredients. Whisk these together until they are just combined, being careful not to overmix as this can affect the cake’s texture. If you’re using walnuts, now is the time to fold them into the batter gently.
Once the batter is well mixed, pour it into the prepared baking pan. Spread it out evenly with the spatula and then place it in the oven. Let the cake bake for about 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. After baking, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely.
While your cake is cooling, you can start preparing the frosting. In a saucepan, melt the two sticks of butter over medium heat. Stir it consistently to help it brown evenly. Watch closely as it can quickly go from browned to burnt. Once it turns a golden color and has a nutty aroma, remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the butter to cool completely until it hardens again.
After cooling, beat the browned butter in a bowl until it becomes creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar to the mixture, followed by maple syrup, vanilla, salt, and heavy cream. Mix until the frosting is light and fluffy, which may take a few minutes.
Once the cake is completely cool, spread the brown butter maple buttercream frosting generously over the top. For an extra touch, garnish your cake with additional walnuts if desired. Now you have a stunning dessert that’s ready to be enjoyed!
How to Make Applesauce Cake
To really enjoy making the Applesauce Cake, focus on the balance of flavors and textures. Each step in the process builds up to the delicious final product. Start by measuring all of your ingredients accurately. This will ensure that your cake is perfectly moist and flavorful.
While combining the cake ingredients, remember to whisk well but avoid overmixing. The moisture from the applesauce will keep the cake tender. During the frosting step, take your time to brown the butter properly as this adds a unique depth to the flavor.
Be patient as your cake cools; rushing this process may result in a melted frosting disaster. When spreading the frosting, use a spatula to create a smooth and even layer on top.
How to Serve Applesauce Cake
Serving Applesauce Cake is as lovely as making it. Once frosted, cut it into squares and serve it straight from the pan. This rustic style fits perfectly with the comforting vibes of the cake.
For an added touch, dust the top with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Serving this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream balances the spices beautifully.
Consider pairing it with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a heartwarming experience. Whether for a special occasion or as a casual dessert, this cake is sure to impress.
What to Serve with Applesauce Cake
Applesauce Cake pairs well with various accompaniments. For a delightful contrast, consider serving it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold, creamy texture complements the warm spices beautifully.
If you’re planning a larger gathering, a side of fresh fruit salad or a simple green salad can add additional freshness. For beverage options, consider pairing your cake with a spiced chai latte or a traditional cup of hot apple cider. Each of these pairings enhances the experience of the cake.
How to Store Applesauce Cake
To store Applesauce Cake, ensure it is completely cooled and frosted. Cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. It can be kept at room temperature for a couple of days.
For longer storage, placing it in the refrigerator extends its shelf life up to a week. Alternatively, you can freeze individual slices of the cake. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, just thaw it at room temperature for a few hours or microwave it briefly. The taste remains delicious even after freezing.
Tips to Make Applesauce Cake
To get the best results with your Applesauce Cake, consider a few helpful tips. Firstly, using chunky applesauce adds texture, making the cake more interesting.
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing; this helps create a smoother batter. If you like spice, don’t hesitate to adjust the amount of apple pie spice in the recipe to suit your taste.
Also, try to frost only when the cake is completely cool. This prevents melting and helps the frosting maintain its lovely appearance. Be generous with the frosting; a thick layer is part of what makes this dessert so inviting.
Variation
For variations on this Applesauce Cake, you can switch up the nuts. Pecans or almonds provide a delicious alternative to walnuts. Adding raisins or even dried cranberries can give you an added sweetness and chewy texture.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a dash of cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolatey twist. Experimenting with different frostings can also bring excitement; a cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze can change things up.
Best Time to Make Applesauce Cake
While you can enjoy Applesauce Cake any time of year, it shines brightest during the fall and winter months. The warm spices make it perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings and Christmas celebrations.
However, its simplicity makes it a great choice for birthdays, picnics, or any casual occasion year-round. Any time you want a comforting, satisfying dessert, this recipe is the perfect go-to!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Applesauce Cake, be aware of a few common pitfalls. One mistake is not measuring ingredients precisely; this can affect the cake’s texture and flavor.
Another common error is not allowing the cake to cool fully before frosting. This can lead to a runny, messy frosting that won’t look appetizing. Overmixing the batter can also cause the cake to become tough; remember to whisk until just combined.
Lastly, avoid skipping the browning of the butter for frosting. This step is crucial for developing flavor, and not doing it will leave your frosting tasting flat.
Nutritional Notes
Applesauce Cake is a lovely treat, yet it’s always wise to keep nutritional values in mind. The cake can provide moisture and flavor through applesauce, which also adds dietary fiber.
While it’s delicious, moderation is key due to sugar and butter content. You can always experiment with healthier sugar substitutes or reduce the amount of frosting for a lighter variation.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought applesauce?
Yes, store-bought applesauce is great! Make sure to choose a chunky variety for the best texture.
2. Can I bake this as cupcakes instead?
Absolutely! This recipe works well for cupcakes. Just reduce the baking time to about 18-20 minutes.
3. How can I make this cake gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure your flour blend is suitable for baking to maintain texture.
Conclusion
Applesauce Cake with Brown Butter Maple Buttercream is a wonderful dessert that brings joy with each bite. The moist, spiced cake combined with the rich, buttery frosting offers a delightful experience every time. Perfect for any occasion, it’s simple to make yet feels special.
Enjoy making this cake with family and friends; it’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your home. Whether enjoyed alone or shared, each slice delivers warmth and comfort. Happy baking!
