This recipe is modeled after a snack time favorite, applesauce. Since it’s easy to make and clean up after, this is a fun project to whip up as the cold winter season starts to take its toll.

Start to finish: 1 hour
Servings: 2-4 servings

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup packed light brown sugar
1 teaspoons ground cinnamon
½ teaspoons freshly grated nutmeg
¼ teaspoons ground cloves
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
½ teaspoons kosher salt
1 cup applesauce
½ cup vegetable oil
½ cup water
1 teaspoons vinegar
½ teaspoons vanilla
½ cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
½ cup raisins, optional
1 teaspoons confectioner’s sugar, optional

Preheat the oven to 350 F. In a medium bowl, use a fork or whisk to combine the flour, brown sugar, spices, baking soda and salt.

Add the remaining ingredients and stir until the dry ingredients are slightly moist, but be careful not to over mix.

Scrape the batter into a 9-inch cake pan and smooth out the top. Sprinkle with confectioner’s sugar and cinnamon if desired.

Bake in the middle of the oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before cutting and serving.