Our Vegan Applesauce Cake Recipe: Naturally Sweet and Moist

Applesauce cake is a classic recipe that’s been loved for generations, and this vegan version keeps all the warmth and flavor without using any dairy or eggs. 

This particular recipe was passed down by my grandma, Molly, and I adapted it to make it vegan-friendly.

It’s soft, moist, and naturally sweetened, making it perfect for family gatherings, after-school snacks, or cozy evenings at home.

With simple pantry ingredients and one mixing bowl, this cake is easy to make and full of nostalgic charm. The applesauce not only adds a hint of sweetness but also keeps the crumb incredibly tender and moist. 

It’s the kind of dessert that feels familiar, comforting, and completely plant-based.

Why This Vegan Applesauce Cake Belongs in Your Recipe Box

This is the kind of cake that’s quick to make, forgiving in method, and flexible in flavor. It’s a dependable go-to for when you want something comforting without a lot of fuss.

Here’s what makes it a favorite:

• Naturally sweetened with applesauce and optional maple syrup
• Moist and tender without needing dairy or eggs
• Simple ingredients you probably already have
• Great for lunchboxes, potlucks, or everyday desserts
• Easy to dress up with toppings or enjoy plain

Ingredients You’ll Need for our Vegan Applesauce Cake Recipe

You don’t need anything fancy to make this cake, just a few basics and one bowl.

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients:

• 1½ cups unsweetened applesauce
• ½ cup neutral oil (such as sunflower or avocado)
• ½ cup maple syrup or organic cane sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Optional Add-ins:

• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• ½ cup raisins or dried cranberries

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Vegan Applesauce Cake

This cake is as simple as stir, pour, and bake. Here’s how to make it:

1. Preheat the oven
   Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8-inch square or round baking pan.
   
2. Mix the dry ingredients
   In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
   
3. Add the wet ingredients
   Stir in the applesauce, oil, maple syrup or sugar, vanilla, and vinegar. Mix until just combined.
   
4. Fold in optional add-ins
   If using nuts or dried fruit, gently fold them into the batter.
   
5. Bake
   Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
   
6. Cool
   Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Topping Ideas for Vegan Applesauce Cake

This cake is delicious on its own, but also works well with a few simple toppings:

• A dusting of powdered sugar
• Light cinnamon glaze (made from powdered sugar, plant milk, and cinnamon)
• Vegan cream cheese frosting
• Chopped toasted nuts for extra crunch
• A drizzle of maple syrup for added sweetness
  

How To Change This Vegan Applesauce Cake Up a Little

This applesauce cake is very adaptable. Here are a few ideas to change it up:

• Add a few tablespoons of cocoa powder for a chocolate version
• Swap some of the flour for whole wheat flour for added texture
• Stir in shredded carrots for a fall-inspired twist
• Use pear purée instead of applesauce for something different
• Turn it into muffins by dividing the batter into 12 muffin cups and baking for 18 to 22 minutes

How to Store Vegan Applesauce Cake

Once cooled, store this cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If frosted, keep it refrigerated and enjoy within 4 to 5 days. 

You can also freeze individual slices for up to 2 months. Simply let it thaw at room temperature before serving.

Final Thoughts

This vegan applesauce cake is a comforting, simple dessert that’s easy to make and even easier to love. It’s sweet, moist, and full of gentle spice, making it perfect for any time of year. 

Whether you serve it plain, glazed, or frosted, it’s sure to become one of those recipes you turn to again and again. 

It’s a lovely reminder that simple, plant-based baking can be just as satisfying as any traditional treat.

Our Vegan Applesauce Cake Recipe: Naturally Sweet and Moist

Recipe by Jess Miller

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 1½ cups unsweetened applesauce

• ½ cup neutral oil (such as sunflower or avocado)

• ½ cup maple syrup or organic cane sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans

• ½ cup raisins or dried cranberries

Directions

• Preheat the oven
• Mix the dry ingredients
• Add the wet ingredients
• Fold in optional add-ins
• Bake
• Cool