1. Preheat the Oven

Before you start mixing, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature when the cake batter is ready. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent the cake from sticking.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures that the baking soda and spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour, which is essential for achieving an even texture and flavor in the final cake. Set the dry ingredients aside.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Creaming the butter and sugar together creates tiny air bubbles that help the cake rise during baking, contributing to its light, fluffy texture.

4. Add the Eggs

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring that each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Eggs provide structure to the cake and help bind all the ingredients together.

5. Add Applesauce and Vanilla

Next, stir in the applesauce and vanilla extract until fully combined. The applesauce adds moisture to the cake and imparts a subtle fruity flavor that perfectly complements the spices.

6. Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start with the dry ingredients, then add half of the buttermilk, followed by more dry ingredients, and finish with the remaining buttermilk. Mixing alternately helps prevent overmixing, which can lead to a dense cake. Stir until just combined.

7. Fold in Optional Ingredients

If you’re using walnuts or raisins, gently fold them into the batter. These add a delightful crunch and sweetness to the cake, though they are entirely optional based on your preference.

8. Bake the Cake

Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should have a golden brown top and a slightly firm texture.

9. Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, you can frost it with cream cheese frosting or simply enjoy it plain. For a touch of extra flavor, dust the top with powdered sugar or serve it with a dollop of whipped cream.