Moist Carrot Cake Recipe with Applesauce for a Healthier Treat
Carrot cake with applesauce is a moist, flavorful dessert that brings comfort and indulgence without being overly heavy. The applesauce replaces oil, giving the cake a healthier twist while keeping its softness intact. Filled with shredded carrots, warm spices, and a hint of natural sweetness, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a holiday treat, a special dessert, or a simple tea-time snack, this carrot cake guarantees delicious results every time. Its wholesome balance makes it loved by both adults and kids alike.
Ingredients Of Carrot Cake Recipe with Applesauce
For ingredients measurement check recipe card and follow the instructions.
Why You Will Love This Carrot Cake Recipe with Applesauce
This carrot cake with applesauce is irresistibly moist, flavorful, and healthier than traditional recipes. Applesauce reduces fat while adding natural sweetness, keeping the cake soft and delicious. The blend of carrots, warm spices, and creamy frosting makes it the perfect dessert for gatherings or everyday indulgence.
Preparation Process Of Carrot Cake Recipe with Applesauce
To prepare, combine dry ingredients like flour, spices, and leavening agents. In another bowl, whisk applesauce, sugars, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in shredded carrots and optional nuts, then mix with dry ingredients. Bake until golden and fluffy. Frost with creamy cheese frosting for a perfect finish.
Step By Step Instructions
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch pan or two round cake pans for even baking.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg to ensure even flavor distribution.
Prepare Wet Mixture
Whisk together applesauce, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla until creamy and well blended.
Fold in Carrots
Gently mix shredded carrots and nuts (if using) into the wet mixture for added texture and crunch.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, stirring until just combined to avoid overmixing and keep the cake tender.
Bake the Cake
Pour batter into prepared pan and bake 30–35 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Prepare Frosting
Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy for a rich frosting layer.
Frost & Serve
Let the cake cool completely before spreading frosting evenly on top, then slice and serve.
How to Serve?
- Slice into squares and serve with coffee or tea
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence
- Sprinkle with extra walnuts or cinnamon on top
- Serve chilled from the fridge for a firmer texture
Tips & Variations
Use whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
Replace sugar with maple syrup or honey.
Add raisins or coconut for added flavor.
Add crushed pineapple for extra moisture.
Skip frosting for a lighter snack version.
Make into cupcakes for individual servings.
Nutrition
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 220mg
Recipe Card
Carrot Cake Recipe with Applesauce
Course: Carrot Cake Recipe7-8 people
servings20
minutes35
minutes320
kcalThis carrot cake recipe with applesauce delivers a moist, flavorful dessert with a healthier twist. Applesauce replaces oil, reducing fat while keeping the cake soft and tender. Filled with shredded carrots, warm spices, and optional nuts, it’s topped with a rich cream cheese frosting for the perfect balance. Ideal for gatherings, birthdays, or everyday treats, this cake is a wholesome yet indulgent option everyone will love. The natural sweetness of applesauce makes it lighter, without sacrificing taste or texture. A must-try recipe that proves healthy baking can still be irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Shredded carrots
Unsweetened applesauce
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Cream cheese (for frosting)
Butter (softened for frosting)
Powdered sugar (for frosting)
Directions
- Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch pan or two round cake pans for even baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg to ensure even flavor distribution.
- Prepare Wet Mixture
- Whisk together applesauce, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla until creamy and well blended.
- Fold in Carrots
- Gently mix shredded carrots and nuts (if using) into the wet mixture for added texture and crunch.
- Combine Mixtures
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, stirring until just combined to avoid overmixing and keep the cake tender.
- Bake the Cake
- Pour batter into prepared pan and bake 30–35 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Prepare Frosting
- Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy for a rich frosting layer.
- Frost & Serve
- Let the cake cool completely before spreading frosting evenly on top, then slice and serve.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Always allow the cake to cool fully before frosting.
- For best results, use freshly grated carrots.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
FAQs
Conclusion
This carrot cake recipe with applesauce is the perfect blend of health and indulgence. The applesauce keeps it moist and light while cutting down on fat. With shredded carrots, warm spices, and creamy frosting, it’s a dessert that feels both wholesome and decadent. Easy to make, versatile with variations, and loved by all ages, it’s an ideal treat for any occasion. Whether enjoyed plain or frosted, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe for your sweet cravings.
