Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- In another bowl, cream butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in applesauce, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Do not overmix to keep the cake soft and tender.
- Applesauce adds moisture and reduces the need for extra fat.
- Spices can be adjusted to taste.
- Let cake cool completely before adding frosting or glaze.
- Flavor improves the next day as spices develop.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0.3g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
