1/4 c. sugar
2 tsp. cinnamon
1 (2 layer) pkg. yellow cake mix
1 2/3 c. applesauce
3 eggs
1/2 c. chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Blend sugar and cinnamon. Grease tube or fluted pan. Dust with 1 tablespoon sugar mixture. Blend yellow cake mix, applesauce and eggs. Beat as directed on cake mix box. Reserve 1 1/2 cups of batter.

Pour rest of batter into prepared pan. Sprinkle with rest of cinnamon mixture. Sprinkle with chopped nuts, if desired. Top with reserved batter. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 or 45 minutes until done. Cool cake in pan, right side up, for 15 minutes. Invert on serving plate to cool completely.