Gran's Apple Cake

This is a recipe my Aunt made and we had it when we were visiting.  it was SO good, we had to get the recipe. So here it is...  Totally awesome! 

Ingredients

• 1-2/3 cups sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 2 tablespoons canola oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 6 cups chopped peeled tart apples
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• FROSTING:
• 4 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup confectioners' sugar

Directions

• In a bowl, combine the sugar, eggs, applesauce, oil and vanilla. Beat for 2 minutes on medium speed. Combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt; add to applesauce mixture and beat until combined. Fold in apples and pecans.
• Transfer to a 13-in. x 9-in. baking dish coated with cooking spray. Bake at 350° for 35-40 minutes or until top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack.
• For frosting, combine cream cheese, butter and vanilla in a small bowl until smooth. Gradually beat in confectioners' sugar (mixture will be soft). Spread over cooled cake. Yield: 18 servings.

Nutritional Analysis:One piece equals 241` calories, 8 g fat (2 g saturated fat), 32 mg cholesterol, 283 mg sodium, 42 g carbohydrate, 2 g fiber, 3 g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1-1/2 fat, 1 fruit.

This recipe was from Taste Of Home.  We made it without the frosting, and it was INCREDIBLE.  Honestly, one of my favorite cakes ever.  It is about 5 points per piece...  But with some light whipped topping on it, it is AMAZING!!