When it comes to desserts, one of the most beloved is applesauce cake. Not only is it delicious, but it's also relatively simple to make. But how healthy is a slice of this cake? According to MyFitnessPal, 1 piece (1/10 loaf) of applesauce cake is approximately 319 calories.

While this may seem like quite a few calories for a snack, applesauce cake does offer some macro and micronutrients. One slice contains about 9 grams of fat, 56 grams of carbohydrates, and 3 grams of protein. Additionally, applesauce cake contains vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, potassium, and calcium.

In this article, we'll explore more about this classic dessert, including ways to make it healthier, nutritional information, and popular recipes.

Calories in Applesauce Cake

As mentioned earlier, 1 piece (1/10 loaf) of applesauce cake is approximately 319 calories. This calorie count can vary slightly depending on the recipe you use and the size of the slice. If you're watching your calorie intake, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes when enjoying applesauce cake. One way to do this is by cutting smaller slices, or by pairing a slice with a low-calorie side, such as fresh fruit or a small salad.

Macro and Micronutrients in Applesauce Cake

Beyond the calorie count, applesauce cake does offer some nutritional value. As mentioned earlier, one slice contains about 9 grams of fat, 56 grams of carbohydrates, and 3 grams of protein. In terms of micronutrients, the applesauce in the cake provides a good source of vitamin C, while cinnamon (often used in the recipe) may have anti-inflammatory properties. Some recipes also call for nuts, which can add healthy fats and protein to the cake.

Allergen Information for Applesauce Cake

If you have any food allergies, it's important to be aware of the ingredients in applesauce cake. Common allergens in this dessert include wheat (if made with regular flour), eggs, and nuts. To make this dessert fit your dietary needs, there are many substitutions you can make. For example, you can use gluten-free flour or a flax egg in place of regular flour and eggs, respectively. For nut allergies, you can try omitting the nuts or using a substitute such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

Daily Recommended Intake Values for Applesauce Cake

There is no specific daily recommendation for applesauce cake, as it is considered a dessert and not a staple food. That being said, it's important to balance your intake of desserts with other nutrient-dense foods. The American Heart Association recommends limiting added sugars (which are often found in desserts) to no more than 6 teaspoons per day for women and 9 teaspoons per day for men.

How to Make Applesauce Cake Healthier?

If you're looking to enjoy applesauce cake while still being mindful of your health goals, there are a few ways to make it healthier. One easy swap is to use unsweetened applesauce in place of oil or butter in the recipe. You can also experiment with using whole wheat flour or almond flour instead of regular flour. Additionally, you can try reducing the amount of sugar in the recipe, or using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.

Ways to Incorporate Applesauce Cake into a Balanced Diet

While applesauce cake may not be the healthiest food option, it can still be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. One way to do this is by pairing a slice with a source of protein, such as Greek yogurt or a protein smoothie. Another option is to make a mini version of the cake using a muffin tin, which can help with portion control. Additionally, you can try making an applesauce cake with lower calorie sweeteners, such as stevia or erythritol.

Popular Recipes for Applesauce Cake

There are countless variations of the classic applesauce cake recipe. Some popular variations include using different types of nuts (such as pecans or walnuts), adding dried fruits (such as raisins or cranberries), or incorporating other spices (such as nutmeg or cloves). For a healthier take, you can also try making a vegan or gluten-free version of the cake. One creative variation is to make an applesauce mug cake, which can be made in just a few minutes in the microwave.

Variations of Applesauce Cake

As mentioned earlier, there are many variations of the classic applesauce cake recipe. Some variations include using different types of applesauce (such as chunky or smooth), adding different types of nuts or dried fruits, or experimenting with different spices. Another variation is to make an upside-down applesauce cake, which involves arranging apple slices on the bottom of the pan before pouring the batter on top. This creates a caramelized, fruity topping on the cake.

Storage and Shelf Life of Applesauce Cake

Applesauce cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To extend the shelf life, you can also store the cake in the fridge for up to a week, or in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw a frozen applesauce cake, simply place it in the fridge overnight. You can also speed up the thawing process by microwaving the cake on low power for a few minutes.

Nutritious Additions to Applesauce Cake

To boost the nutritional value of your applesauce cake, there are a few nutritious ingredients you can add. For example, you can add chia seeds or ground flaxseed to the batter for an extra boost of fiber. Another option is to use a nut-based milk (such as almond or cashew milk) instead of regular milk in the recipe. This can add healthy fats and protein to the cake.