Name: Healthy Pumpkin Cake with Applesauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (or a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour); 1 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 2 tsp pumpkin spice blend (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves); 1 cup pumpkin puree (unsweetened); 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup low-fat milk or non-dairy milk

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pumpkin cake is a lighter alternative to typical fall desserts, without sacrificing flavor or texture. The applesauce replaces much of the oil, keeping the cake moist while reducing fat. It’s simple to make, works well as a snack or breakfast cake, and pairs perfectly with a light glaze or cream cheese frosting. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly for easy make-ahead treats.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Whole wheat flour or a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Pumpkin spice blend (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves)
Pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
Unsweetened applesauce
Eggs
Honey or maple syrup
Vanilla extract
Low-fat milk or non-dairy milk

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease or line a baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin spice blend.
In another bowl, combine pumpkin puree, applesauce, eggs, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined—do not overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool completely before slicing. Optional: Top with a light glaze or cream cheese frosting.

Servings and timing

Serves 12 slices.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Cooling time: 20 minutes

Variations

Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
Fold in raisins, cranberries, or dark chocolate chips for extra flavor.
Use almond flour or oat flour for a gluten-free version (adjust liquids as needed).
Replace honey/maple syrup with coconut sugar for a different sweetness profile.
Add a tablespoon of chia seeds or flaxseed meal for extra nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. For longer storage, freeze individual slices for up to 2 months and thaw at room temperature before eating.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin puree?

Yes, just make sure it’s well-drained and smooth to avoid excess moisture.

Can I make this cake vegan?

Yes, replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk and sweetener.

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat?

Yes, but the cake will be slightly lighter in texture and color.

Does this cake taste sweet enough without sugar?

The honey or maple syrup, combined with pumpkin and spices, provides a naturally sweet flavor without refined sugar.

Can I make muffins with this batter?

Yes, bake at the same temperature for 18–20 minutes.

How do I keep the cake from being too dense?

Avoid overmixing the batter, which can make it heavy.

Can I frost it?

Yes, a light cream cheese frosting or Greek yogurt glaze works well.

Is it freezer-friendly?

Yes, wrap slices individually and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger pan or two pans and adjust baking time slightly.

What’s the best pan size to use?

An 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch pan works best for even baking.

Conclusion

Healthy Pumpkin Cake with Applesauce is a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of fall without the extra guilt. Moist, warmly spiced, and naturally sweetened, it’s a versatile treat that works for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Whether enjoyed plain or with a light frosting, this wholesome cake will quickly become a seasonal favorite.