Breakfast | Dessert

One-Bowl Applesauce Cake

A cozy classic with a spiced twist, this one-bowl Applesauce Loaf is everything we love about baking — no matter the season. Made with pantry staples and warming spices, it comes together quickly with just one bowl and minimal fuss. The result is a tender, aromatic loaf with a hint of crunch from chopped walnuts and a sweet cinnamon glaze that makes it feel extra special. Perfect for gifting, sharing, or enjoying with a warm cup in hand.

September 21, 2025

By The Seasoned Mom

Ingredients

For the Glaze :

1 cup confectioners sugar
2-3 tablespoons milk or cream
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour an 8½ x 4½-inch loaf pan or spray with nonstick baking spray; set aside.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together oil and sugar until combined. Add the applesauce, eggs, and vanilla extract; whisk to combine.

3. Sprinkle salt, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger over mixture and stir until well blended. Add flour, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to over-mix or your cake will be tough. Fold in the walnuts.

4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan. Bake until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, about 50-60 minutes. Do not overbake.

5. Remove from the oven, unmold from the pan, and cool completely on a wire rack before glazing.

For the Glaze :

1. In a small bowl, whisk together confectioners sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until a thick, pourable glaze comes together. If the glaze seems too thick, add more milk, one teaspoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency. If the glaze is too thin, gradually add more sugar.

2. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake. Slice and serve.