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Super Moist Chocolate Cake

5 from 1 vote
This easy chocolate applesauce cake transforms a boxed cake mix into an extra-moist, rich and family-friendly dessert using only four ingredients. No frosting required.
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Prep Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8 people
Course: Dessert
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 box chocolate cake mix
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • ½ cup butter melted and slightly cooled

Equipment

  • One large mixing bowl
  • One liquid measuring cup
  • One whisk or electric hand mixer
  • Rubber spatula
  • One round cake pan
  • Non-stick cooking spray or butter for greasing the pan
  • One wire cooling rack optional

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C), or to the temperature indicated on the cake mix package.
  2. Lightly grease a round cake pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
  3. Place the chocolate cake mix in a large mixing bowl.
  4. Add the eggs, unsweetened applesauce and melted butter.
  5. Whisk until the ingredients are fully combined and the batter is smooth. Avoid mixing longer than necessary.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
  7. Bake for approximately 30 minutes, following the recommended baking time on the package. Check the cake by inserting a toothpick into the centre. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
  8. Allow the cake to cool in the pan before slicing. Serve plain, at room temperature or slightly warm.

Notes

A few helpful notes
Make sure the melted butter has cooled slightly before adding it to the eggs. It can still be warm and liquid, but it should not be hot.
Because cake mixes can vary slightly between brands, begin checking the cake a few minutes before the recommended baking time. The cake is ready when the centre springs back gently when touched and a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
Unsweetened applesauce works particularly well because it adds moisture without making an already-sweet cake mix even sweeter.
The cake is delicious served plain, but you could also add a light dusting of powdered sugar, a few fresh berries or a spoonful of whipped cream for a special occasion.