Applesauce Cake (or cupcakes)

December was Birthday month (as I have mentioned before), and my son’s request was for cupcakes. We ended up making applesauce cupcakes, and then dipped the tops in a slightly runnier version of my cookie frosting.  Because the frosting is so thin, it’s important to add any sprinkles or decorations immediately, as the frosting dries quickly.

The Players

2 cups whole wheat flour

1 1/2 cups unsweetened apple sauce

1 1/4 cups sugar

1/2 cup butter  (softened)

1/2 cup water

1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1 teaspoon salt

3/4 teaspoon baking powder

2 large eggs

1 cup raisins (optional)

2/3 cup chopped nuts (optional)

The Fun

1. Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease bottoms of muffin pan or use liners. (You could grease the bottom and sides of a rectangle plan or round pans if you want a cake.)
2. Beat all ingredients except raisins and nuts in a large bowl for 30 seconds or so (until combined). Then beat on high for 3 minutes. Pour into pan.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes, checking with a toothpick as they near done.