Welcome to this delightful fall recipe that’s perfect for cozy gatherings and holiday treats—Apple Sauce Spice Cake Bars! Whether you’re a fan of comforting desserts or looking for a quick and easy treat for your family, this recipe will hit all the right notes. Imagine the warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, combined with the natural sweetness of applesauce in every bite. These Apple Sauce Spice Cake Bars are an autumn must-have and are incredibly simple to make. Let’s dive into this delicious, spiced dessert that’s sure to become a seasonal favorite!
With a rich aroma that evokes the essence of autumn, these cake bars are an excellent choice for any dessert table. The blend of spices will not only fill your kitchen with a cozy scent but will also transport you to fond memories of fall. This recipe is perfect for both experienced bakers and beginners alike, offering a hassle-free way to enjoy a delightful treat that can be easily shared with friends and family.
These Apple Sauce Spice Cake Bars are not just about great flavor; they also provide a healthier twist with the use of applesauce instead of oil, making them a guilt-free indulgence. Plus, they can be customized to suit your taste preferences, whether you want to include nuts for added crunch or enjoy them plain. Each bite is a celebration of fall flavors, making it a must-try recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Apple Sauce Spice Cake Bars Recipe
- Seasonal Flavors: The combination of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg brings the essence of autumn into your home.
- Quick and Easy: This straightforward recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels, requiring minimal prep time.
- Healthier Option: Using applesauce instead of traditional oils adds moisture without excess fat, making it a smarter choice for your dessert.
- Customizable: You can easily substitute ingredients to meet your dietary needs or preferences, including nut-free options.
- Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for potlucks and gatherings, these bars are easy to slice and serve!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s important to prepare your kitchen and gather your tools. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), which ensures an even baking temperature for the cake bars. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to guarantee that the bars won’t stick, allowing for easy removal once baked.
For the mixing process, you’ll need two mixing bowls—one for dry ingredients and another for wet ingredients. A whisk is ideal for blending the dry components, while a sturdy wooden spoon or spatula works perfectly for combining the wet mixture. Having measuring cups and spoons handy will help you keep track of your ingredient quantities, ensuring perfect results every time.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – You can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend if necessary.
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon – The quintessential fall spice!
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground allspice
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce – A healthier alternative to oil that adds moisture and flavor.
- 1 cup sugar – Feel free to reduce this or substitute with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or coconut sugar.
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed – Adds depth of flavor and moisture.
- ½ cup vegetable oil – Can be swapped for melted coconut oil or applesauce for a lower-fat option.
- 2 large eggs – For a vegan version, use flax or chia eggs.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional) – Adds crunch and texture, but can be omitted for nut-free options.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to a warm 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, take a 9×13-inch baking pan and grease it with a bit of oil or cooking spray. After greasing, dust it with flour to prevent any sticking. This preparation step helps avoid a sticky mess during baking and allows for easy removal of the bars once they have cooled.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, and salt. Using a whisk, mix these dry ingredients well to ensure an even distribution of the spices throughout the flour. This is essential for achieving consistent flavor in your Apple Sauce Spice Cake Bars.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the unsweetened applesauce, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Using a hand mixer or a whisk, beat the mixture until it’s well combined and fluffy. Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to incorporate air and moisture into your batter. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract, giving your bars a nice depth of flavor.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Slowly introduce the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold the ingredients together, being careful not to overmix. It’s essential to stop mixing as soon as you see that the flour has just combined—overmixing can lead to tough bars.
Step 5: Add the Nuts (Optional)
If you’re adding nuts for an added crunch, gently fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans until evenly distributed. This step is optional, so feel free to skip it if you prefer a nut-free dessert. The nuts will complement the moist texture of the bars beautifully.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and smooth out the top with a spatula for an even finish. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the bars are ready.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the Apple Sauce Spice Cake Bars to cool completely in the pan. For an extra touch, you can dust the top with powdered sugar, or if you’re feeling indulgent, spread a layer of cream cheese frosting over the cooled bars. Slice into squares and serve them to delighted friends and family!
Variations
- Protein: Add protein powder or Greek yogurt to the wet ingredients for a protein boost.
- Vegetables: Zucchini or carrot can be grated and added to the batter for extra moisture and nutrition.
- Spices: Try adding ginger or cardamom for a unique twist on the flavor profile.
Cooking Notes
- For lower-fat versions, swap half of the vegetable oil for applesauce.
- Always check for doneness with a toothpick, as oven temperatures can vary and influence baking time.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
- Pair these cake bars with a cup of spiced chai or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
Tips
- Storing leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For a festive touch, consider adding a sprinkle of chopped cranberries or raisins on top before baking.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approx. 200 per serving
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! You can easily make this recipe vegan by substituting the eggs with flax or chia eggs.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Can I freeze these cake bars?
Absolutely! Cut them into portions, wrap them tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.
What can I use as a substitute for applesauce?
If you don’t have applesauce, you can use mashed bananas or pumpkin puree as a substitute.
Conclusion
These Apple Sauce Spice Cake Bars are not only simple to prepare but deliver a burst of warm, inviting flavors that are perfect for fall. Whether you’re enjoying them at a family gathering, a cozy night in, or sharing with friends, they are sure to impress. The combination of spices and applesauce creates a delightful dessert that brings comfort and joy to any occasion. Don’t forget to try variations to make this recipe uniquely yours and to share your experiences in the comments! Happy baking!
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Apple Sauce Spice Cake Bars
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approx. 12 servings
Description
Delightful fall dessert bars combining applesauce and warm spices, perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – You can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend if necessary.
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon – The quintessential fall spice!
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground allspice
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce – A healthier alternative to oil that adds moisture and flavor.
- 1 cup sugar – Feel free to reduce this or substitute with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or coconut sugar.
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed – Adds depth of flavor and moisture.
- ½ cup vegetable oil – Can be swapped for melted coconut oil or applesauce for a lower-fat option.
- 2 large eggs – For a vegan version, use flax or chia eggs.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional) – Adds crunch and texture, but can be omitted for nut-free options.
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to a warm 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, and salt. Whisk well.
- In a large mixing bowl, mix unsweetened applesauce, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
- Slowly combine the dry mixture into the wet, folding gently.
- If using, fold in chopped walnuts or pecans.
- Pour the batter into the pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, checking with a toothpick.
- Cool completely before slicing and serving. Optionally dust with powdered sugar or spread cream cheese frosting.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: Approx. 200 per serving
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Protein: 3 g