2 1/2 c. all purpose flour
2 c. sugar
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 1/2 c. applesauce
3/4 c. oil
2 eggs
1/2 c. chopped pecans

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour 2 (9 inch) round cake pans. Lightly spoon flour into measuring cup; level off. In large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt and cinnamon. Add applesauce, oil and eggs; blend at low speed until moistened. Beat 2 minutes at high speed. Stir in pecans. Pour batter into greased and floured pans. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 to 40 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes; remove from pans. Cool completely.

BROWN BUTTER FROSTING:

1/2 c. butter (only)
4 1/2 c. powdered sugar
6 - 8 tbsp. apple juice

In small heavy sauce pan over medium heat, brown butter until light golden brown, stirring constantly. Remove from heat; cool completely. In large bowl, combine browned butter, powdered sugar and 4 tablespoons of the apple juice; blend at low speed until moistened. Continue beating until well blended, adding additional apple juice until desired spreading consistency. Fill and frost cake. Garnish as desired. Makes 12 servings.