To make the cake layers:

1. Prepare three 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper circles in the bottom and grease the sides. Preheat oven to 350°F (176°C).
2. Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices and salt in a medium sized bowl and set aside.
3. Add the butter, vegetable oil, brown sugar and vanilla extract to a large mixer bowl and beat together until light in color and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Do not skimp on the creaming time.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until mostly combined after each. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to be sure all ingredients are well incorporated.
5. Add half of the dry ingredients to the batter and mix until mostly combined.
6. Slowly add the milk and applesauce and mix until well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to be sure all ingredients are well incorporated.
7. Add the remaining dry ingredients and mix until well combined and smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to be sure all ingredients are well incorporated. Do not over mix the batter.
8. Divide the batter evenly between the cakes pans and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few crumbs.
9. Remove the cakes from the oven and allow to cool for about 2-3 minutes, then remove to cooling racks to cool completely.

To make the frosting:

1. To make the cream cheese frosting, add the cream cheese and butter to a large mixer bowl and mix until well combined and smooth.
2. Add about half of the powdered sugar and mix until well combined and smooth.
3. Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined and smooth.
4. Add the remaining powdered sugar and mix until well combined and smooth.

To assemble the cake:

1. To build the cake, first use a large serrated knife to remove the domes from the tops of the cakes so they are flat, if needed. Place the first cake layer on a serving plate or on a cardboard cake circle. Spread about 1 cup of frosting on top of the cake layer. Add the second layer of cake and another cup of frosting.
2. Top the cake with the third layer and frost the top and outside of the cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting. Use a spoon or offset spatula to create a design in the frosting on the sides of the cake.
3. Use the remaining frosting to pipe a border around the top edge of the cake. I used Ateco tip 847. Decorate the cake with some chopped pecans, if desired.
4. Store cake in an air-tight container in the fridge. Serve at room temperature. Best if eaten within 3-4 days.