1- First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch pan to avoid any sticking issues. This step sets the stage for even baking and easy removal later.

2- Next, mix the dry ingredients in a bowl: whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. This helps distribute the spices evenly for that warm aromatic flavor. In another bowl, combine the wet ingredients like oil, brown sugar, applesauce, eggs, vanilla, and molasses if you’re using it.

3- Now, blend the wet and dry mixtures gently until just combined it’s okay if a few lumps remain to keep the cake moist. Fold in the shredded apple for extra juiciness, then spread the batter into your prepared pan. Bake for 38-40 minutes, checking with a toothpick for moist crumbs, and cover with foil if the top browns too fast.

4- After baking, let the cake cool fully on a rack before adding frosting. For the frosting: brown the butter over medium heat until it’s golden and nutty, then chill it until solid. Beat it smooth, add cream cheese, and mix in sugar, vanilla, and salt until creamy. Spread it on the cake, add a sprinkle of cinnamon if you like, and chill for 30 minutes to set.