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Applesauce Spice Cake Bars: Fall Dessert Recipe

  • 4 min read
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Apple Sauce Spice Cake Bars Recipe – Easy Fall Dessert

Apple Sauce Spice Cake Bars Recipe – Easy Fall Dessert

  • Author: Patricia

Introduction

Apple Sauce Spice Cake Bars celebrate the flavors of autumn in an easy, family-friendly format. Warm spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice and a hint of cloves—blend with unsweetened applesauce to make moist, tender bars that are quicker to prepare than layered cakes yet more substantial than cookies. This recipe adapts well to dietary preferences: swap the flour for a gluten-free blend, use flax or chia eggs for a vegan version, or reduce sweeteners to suit your taste. Whether you serve them plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting, these bars make a comforting treat for gatherings, school snacks, or a cozy afternoon with tea.

Ingredients

Below are the ingredients for one 9×13-inch pan. Adjust quantities if scaling the recipe:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free flour blend)
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon ground allspice
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1 cup sugar (or reduce to taste; maple syrup or coconut sugar can be used)
  • ½ cup packed brown sugar
  • ½ cup vegetable oil (substitute melted coconut oil or more applesauce for a lower-fat option)
  • 2 large eggs (use flax or chia eggs for an egg-free version)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional) — omit for a nut-free version

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and prepare.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Combine dry ingredients.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, and salt until evenly blended.

Step 3: Mix wet ingredients.
In a large bowl, stir together the applesauce, sugar, brown sugar, and oil. Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated, then mix in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine wet and dry.
Add the dry ingredients gradually to the wet mixture, stirring gently just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the texture light and tender.

Step 5: Fold in nuts (optional).
If using, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans to distribute a pleasant crunch throughout the batter.

Step 6: Bake.
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan, smooth the surface, and bake for 30–35 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center—when it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bars are done.

Step 7: Cool and finish.
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing. For a richer presentation, top with cream cheese frosting or dust lightly with powdered sugar.

Helpful Tips

  • Fresh spices matter: Use fresh, high-quality ground spices for the best aromatic flavor.
  • Add texture: Fold in diced apple, dried cranberries, or raisins for extra fruitiness.
  • Sugar adjustments: You can reduce the sugar by about one-third without drastically altering texture; natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup work too.
  • Don’t overmix: Stir just until no streaks of flour remain to prevent dense bars.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream.
  • Spread cream cheese frosting for a richer dessert.
  • For a simple finish, dust with powdered sugar and serve with a hot cup of apple cider, tea, or coffee.

Nutritional Information

These bars offer the comforting taste of fall along with some nutritional benefits thanks to applesauce and optional nuts:

  • Applesauce: Adds moisture and fiber while reducing the need for extra fat.
  • Spices: Cinnamon and cloves contribute antioxidants and warming flavor without calories.
  • Nuts (optional): Add healthy fats, protein, and a satisfying crunch.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 240
  • Fat: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Sugar: 21g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Vitamin C: 2mg
  • Iron: 1mg

Storage and Leftovers

  • Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Refrigerator: If frosted, keep refrigerated for up to 5 days; bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.
  • Freezer: Freeze slices in a single layer with parchment between pieces for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes. Replace all-purpose flour with a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum for structure.

How can I make the recipe egg-free or vegan?
Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) or chia eggs, and choose a plant-based oil. Ensure any sugar used is vegan-friendly.

Can I reduce the sugar?
Absolutely. You can cut sugar by about one-third or use alternatives like coconut sugar, honey, or maple syrup. Adjust liquid slightly if using liquid sweeteners.

Conclusion

These Apple Sauce Spice Cake Bars are a straightforward, flavorful way to bring autumn warmth to your table. They’re quick to assemble, flexible to adapt, and delicious both plain and dressed up with frosting. Give them a try for your next cozy gathering or weeknight dessert—simple ingredients deliver a lot of seasonal comfort.