Creating this incredible Apple Cinnamon Sheet Cake can be straightforward if you follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.

3. Cream Butter: In another bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.

4. Combine Ingredients: Add the applesauce, eggs, and vanilla extract to the butter. Mix until well-blended.

5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined.

6. Add Apples: Gently fold in the diced apples and, if desired, chopped nuts until evenly distributed.

7. Pour Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.

8. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

10. Serve: Once the cake has cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar if desired, and slice it into squares for serving.

By following these straightforward steps, you’ll be on your way to enjoying a delicious slice of Apple Cinnamon Sheet Cake!