1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.

3. In a large bowl, whisk the brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, applesauce, buttermilk, and vanilla until smooth.

4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir just until combined. Do not overmix.

5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.

6. Bake for 28 to 32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

8. To make the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy.

9. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then beat until creamy and spreadable.

10. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread frosting over the top.

11. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides of the cake.

12. Chill briefly for cleaner slices or serve at cool room temperature.