– 2 cups all-purpose flour – 1½ tsp baking soda – ½ tsp baking powder – ½ tsp salt – 1½ tsp cinnamon – ½ tsp nutmeg – ¼ tsp cloves – ½ cup butter (softened) – 1 cup sugar – 2 large eggs – 1¾ cups unsweetened applesauce – 1 tsp vanilla extract – Optional: ½ cup chopped nuts or raisins
1
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Set aside to add to the wet mixture later.
2
In a separate bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3
Stir in the applesauce and vanilla until smooth. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients just until combined. Add nuts or raisins if using.
4
Pour batter into a greased 9x13-inch pan. Bake at 350°F for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool completely.
5
Dust with powdered sugar or top with cream cheese frosting. Slice and serve for a spiced, moist cake that tastes like homemade comfort.