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
Scale
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.
