This applesauce bundt cake is one of the easiest cakes you can make, using just three ingredients and a bundt pan for a beautiful presentation.
If you enjoy simple cake mix recipes, you might also like my 3 ingredient banana bread or cherry dump cake - both are quick, reliable desserts with minimal ingredients.
Using applesauce instead of oil keeps the cake soft while the spice cake mix brings all the warm cinnamon flavor. Baking it in a bundt pan gives it that classic shape that looks a little more special without any extra work.
Why I Love This Recipe
This applesauce bundt cake uses just three ingredients, making it one of the easiest cake mix desserts you can bake.
The bundt pan creates a bakery-style presentation without needing frosting or decoration.
Applesauce replaces oil, keeping the cake soft and tender while reducing added fat.
The spice cake mix adds built-in flavor, so there’s no need to measure spices.
This is a reliable, no-fail cake mix bundt cake that works for holidays, gatherings, or everyday desserts. It's also pretty good for breakfast : ).
Ingredients
1 box spice cake mix - Any standard boxed spice cake mix works well.
1 ½ cups applesauce - Unsweetened applesauce is recommended, but sweetened works if you prefer a sweeter cake.
3 large eggs - These provide structure and help the bundt cake hold its shape.
Instructions
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
Grease a bundt pan very well with nonstick spray or butter and flour, making sure to coat all crevices to prevent sticking.
Step 2
Add the spice cake mix, applesauce, and eggs to a large mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer, mix until smooth and fully combined. This can also be done with a wooden spoon or spatula. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to make sure all the dry mix is incorporated.
Step 3
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan.
Step 4
Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 5
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes. Carefully invert the cake onto a plate and allow it to cool completely before cutting and serving. I like to sprinkle optional powdered sugar on it so it looks a little fancy!
Tips for Bundt Cake Success
Grease the pan thoroughly - bundt cakes stick easily if this step is rushed.
Let the cake cool before removing - too soon and it can break apart.
Run a thin knife around the edges if needed before inverting.
Tap the pan gently after flipping to help release the cake.
Easy Variations
Add chocolate chips for a chocolate applesauce bundt cake.
Mix in chopped nuts for texture.
Drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze for a more finished look.
Dust with powdered sugar for an easy, classic presentation.
How to Serve
Serve this applesauce bundt cake at room temperature or slightly warm.
It pairs well with coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
This also makes a great brunch or casual dessert option.
How to Store
Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Refrigerate for up to 5 days for longer freshness.
Freeze slices in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
FAQs
This recipe works best with eggs because they help the bundt cake hold its shape and release cleanly from the pan. If you need an egg substitute, you can try using additional applesauce (about ¼ cup per egg), but the texture will be softer and more dense.
A standard 10 to 12 cup bundt pan works best for this recipe. Using a smaller pan may cause the batter to overflow while baking.
Bundt cakes can stick easily if the pan is not greased thoroughly. Make sure to coat all the grooves and edges with nonstick spray or butter and flour. Letting the cake cool for 10 to 15 minutes before removing also helps it release cleanly.
Yes, this recipe works well with other cake mix flavors like yellow cake mix, or even carrot cake mix. Keep in mind that spice cake gives the most classic applesauce cake flavor. If using a yellow cake mix, add a teaspoon of apple pie spice or cinnamon.
Yes, applesauce is commonly used as a substitute for oil in cake mix recipes. It helps keep the cake moist while reducing added fat, although the texture may be slightly lighter and less rich.
More Dessert Recipes
Easy Applesauce Bundt Cake with Cake Mix
Ingredients
- 1 box spice cake mix Any standard boxed spice cake mix works well.
- 1 ½ cups applesauce Unsweetened applesauce is recommended but sweetened works if you prefer a sweeter cake.
- 3 large eggs These provide structure and help the bundt cake hold its shape.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
- Grease a bundt pan very well with nonstick spray or butter and flour, making sure to coat all crevices to prevent sticking.
- Add the spice cake mix, applesauce, and eggs to a large mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer, mix until smooth and fully combined. This can also be done with a wooden spoon or spatula. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to make sure all the dry mix is incorporated.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan.
- Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes. Carefully invert the cake onto a plate and allow it to cool completely before cutting and serving. I like to sprinkle optional powdered sugar on it so it looks a little fancy!
Notes
Nutrition (estimate)
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