The Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe is a heartwarming classic that fills your kitchen with the inviting aroma of cinnamon and cloves while delivering a wonderfully moist, tender texture you will fall in love with. This old-fashioned applesauce cake combines simple pantry staples into a delightful treat that tastes like a cozy hug from grandma—perfect for any time you want a slice of comforting sweetness without too much fuss. Once you try this recipe, it might just become a beloved staple in your dessert rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe are straightforward but thoughtfully chosen to create the perfect balance of flavors and texture. Each one plays a pivotal role, from the soft spices that enliven the batter to the applesauce that keeps the cake irresistibly moist throughout.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation giving structure to your cake.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda: Helps the cake rise and keeps it light.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Gives a gentle lift alongside the baking soda.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors and balances sweetness.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and classic spice aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves: Gives a subtle depth of flavor that complements apples.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Brings a nutty, slightly sweet spice note.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Ensures richness and tender crumb.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens without overpowering the natural fruitiness.
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar: Adds moisture and a hint of caramel complexity.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to the cake’s fluffiness.
- 1 1/2 cups unsweetened applesauce: Keeps the cake moist and adds natural apple flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a mellow sweetness.
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or raisins (optional): Provides optional texture and bursts of flavor.
How to Make Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking pan. This ensures your Amish Applesauce Cake will bake evenly and come out effortlessly once done.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Combining these dry ingredients first ensures even distribution of spices and leavening agents throughout the cake.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is key for a tender crumb and helps dissolve the sugars for a smooth batter.
Step 4: Add Eggs, Applesauce, and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next. Then stir in the unsweetened applesauce and the vanilla extract. This blend adds moisture and depth of flavor essential to the cake’s signature softness.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add your dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cake tender and light.
Step 6: Fold in Nuts or Raisins (Optional)
If you love a bit of crunch or bursts of sweetness, gently fold in chopped walnuts or raisins. They add delightful texture contrasts that elevate this humble cake to a new level.
Step 7: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan before slicing to let the flavors settle.
How to Serve Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe
Garnishes
This cake is a canvas for creativity when it comes to garnishes. A light dusting of powdered sugar on top brings an elegant yet simple touch. For a richer option, spread cream cheese frosting over cooled slices to complement the warm spices beautifully. Even chopped toasted nuts scattered on top add a nice crunch and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit like crisp apple slices or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the cake’s sweetness. For a cozy afternoon treat, serve it alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee—it’s the perfect duo that invites long, relaxing conversations.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling a bit festive? Cut the cake into bite-sized squares and serve them on a pretty platter for a party. Layer slices with vanilla ice cream for a dessert parfait, or toast individual slices lightly and drizzle with honey to awaken those deep spice notes. Presentation can turn a simple cake into an irresistible showstopper.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe fresh, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This helps maintain its moist texture without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this cake later, it’s freezer-friendly too! Wrap cooled cake slices individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months, so you can savor this cozy treat whenever the craving strikes.
Reheating
When ready to indulge again, thaw the slices at room temperature or gently warm them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. This brings back that fresh-baked, soft texture that makes the Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe so comforting.
FAQs
Can I use sweetened applesauce instead of unsweetened?
Yes, sweetened applesauce can be used, but be aware it will increase the overall sweetness of the cake. You might consider slightly reducing the added sugars if you prefer a less sweet dessert.
What can I substitute for walnuts if I have a nut allergy?
You can skip the walnuts entirely or replace them with raisins, dried cranberries, or even diced apples for texture. Alternatively, sunflower seeds offer a nut-free crunch option.
Is this cake gluten-free?
This recipe calls for all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can try substituting with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking, keeping in mind the texture might vary slightly.
Can I add other spices to the Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding a pinch of ginger or allspice to customize the flavor profile. Just be careful not to overpower the traditional warm spices that define this cake.
How long does this cake stay moist?
Thanks to the applesauce, this cake remains moist for several days when properly stored, usually up to three days at room temperature or about a week refrigerated.
Final Thoughts
This Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe feels like a treasured family secret that you’re now sharing with your friends. Its delicious warmth and easy preparation make it perfect for both weekday treats and special occasions. So go ahead, grab those simple ingredients, and bake something that will fill your home with love and irresistible spice. You won’t regret it!
Print
Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Amish Applesauce Cake is a moist, spiced dessert perfect for any occasion. Made with a blend of warm spices, unsweetened applesauce, and a touch of vanilla, this cake offers a delightful old-fashioned flavor. Optional walnuts or raisins add texture and richness, while the simple baking method ensures a tender crumb every time.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or raisins (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg until evenly combined.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the unsweetened applesauce and vanilla extract until blended.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Fold in Add-Ins: If using, fold in the chopped walnuts or raisins to distribute evenly throughout the batter.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing and serving. Optionally dust with powdered sugar or top with cream cheese frosting.
Notes
- This cake is delicious served plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with cream cheese frosting.
- For extra flavor, add a handful of chopped dried apples or a splash of apple cider to the batter.
