Introducing the delightful and flavorful “Applesauce Carrot Cake,” a recipe with roots in tradition and a twist of modern innovation, perfect for any dessert occasion. This culinary gem, cherished by many, originates from a humble source—a newspaper clipping, where a generous contributor shared a treasure found on the label of a Seneca applesauce jar. Packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with flavor, this cake promises to elevate your baking repertoire to new heights.
Recipe Overview:
- Name: Applesauce Carrot Cake
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
- Recipe Category: Dessert
- Keywords: Fruit, Weeknight, Oven, Less than 4 Hours
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups of flour
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/8 teaspoon of allspice
- 1 cup of unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup of butter
- 2 eggs
- 1 1/2 cups of grated carrots
- 1 cup of chopped walnuts
- 2 – 3 tablespoons of cream cheese
- 1 cup of powdered sugar
- 1 cup of unsweetened applesauce
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 632.1
- Fat Content: 26.5g
- Saturated Fat Content: 11g
- Cholesterol Content: 95.1mg
- Sodium Content: 337.7mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 93.1g
- Fiber Content: 3g
- Sugar Content: 55.9g
- Protein Content: 9g
Instructions:
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Prepare the Batter: Start by combining the dry ingredients—flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and allspice—in a large mixing bowl. Then, add the unsweetened applesauce and butter to the dry mixture.
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Mix Thoroughly: Using an electric mixer, beat the ingredients for about 2 minutes, ensuring to scrape the bowl and beaters occasionally. This step ensures a smooth and well-incorporated batter.
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Incorporate Eggs: Next, add the eggs to the mixture and continue beating for another 2 minutes. This addition enriches the batter and provides structure to the cake.
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Fold in Carrots and Nuts: Stir in the grated carrots and chopped walnuts, blending them well into the batter. These additions not only add texture but also contribute to the rich, flavorful profile of the cake.
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Bake to Perfection: Pour the prepared batter into a 9-inch square baking pan that has been sprayed with nonstick spray. Bake the cake at 350°F for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. This step ensures a beautifully baked and evenly cooked cake.
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Cool the Cake: Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan before transferring it to a serving plate or wire rack. This cooling period ensures that the cake sets properly and is ready for frosting.
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Prepare the Frosting: While the cake is cooling, prepare the icing by beating together the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Then, gradually add the unsweetened applesauce and continue beating until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
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Frost and Serve: Once the cake has cooled completely, generously spread the prepared frosting over the top. This step not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful finishing touch to your masterpiece. Slice and serve this delectable Applesauce Carrot Cake to delight your taste buds and those of your loved ones.
This recipe offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, from the moist and tender crumb of the cake to the creamy richness of the frosting, all punctuated by the sweet crunch of walnuts and the earthy sweetness of carrots. Whether enjoyed as a comforting treat on a cozy evening or showcased as the star of a festive gathering, this cake is sure to leave a lasting impression. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and embark on a culinary journey filled with warmth, nostalgia, and the irresistible allure of homemade goodness.
