If you’re craving a dessert that wraps you up in cozy warmth and nostalgia, this Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine a moist, spice-packed cake infused with tender applesauce, a touch of vanilla, and a delightful medley of warming spices that make each bite a comforting hug. This classic Amish treat is wonderfully simple yet bursting with flavor, making it a perfect centerpiece for family gatherings or a sweet everyday indulgence. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe invites you to experience the timeless charm of a humble cake that has stood the test of time with delicious aplomb.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for the Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe is straightforward, but each one plays an essential role in delivering that perfect taste and texture. These staples work harmoniously to create the cake’s moist crumb, gentle spice, and inviting color.
- 2 cups unsweetened applesauce: Provides natural moisture and a subtle fruity sweetness that forms the cake’s foundation.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives structure while keeping the cake tender.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake just right without overpowering the spices.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and helps achieve that soft, crumbly texture.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Introduces a pleasant crunch and nutty depth.
- 1/2 cup raisins: Brings bursts of chewy sweetness throughout the cake.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cake rise and stay light.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Works with baking soda for a nice lift.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The star spice giving the cake its warm, inviting aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves: Adds a subtle but distinct spiciness.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Complements the cinnamon with a nutty, sweet warmth.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a lovely floral note that ties the recipe together.
How to Make Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your cake will come out cleanly once baked. This essential preparation sets the stage for a smooth baking process and a perfectly cooked cake.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This process is key because it incorporates air, leading to a lighter, more tender crumb in your applesauce cake.
Step 3: Add Applesauce and Vanilla
Mix in the unsweetened applesauce and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. The applesauce not only sweetens naturally but keeps the cake wonderfully moist, while the vanilla adds depth to the flavor profile.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. This dry mixture packs all the classic spices that give this Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe its signature warm and nostalgic flavor.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Overmixing can toughen the cake, so be mindful to stir until everything is blended but still light.
Step 6: Fold in Nuts and Raisins
If you’re including chopped walnuts or pecans and raisins, fold them in now. These add wonderful texture and pockets of flavor that elevate the cake from good to absolutely irresistible.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish and spread it out smoothly. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the cake cool completely before slicing to allow the flavors to deepen and set.
How to Serve Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar is a classic choice that enhances the cake’s appearance without overwhelming it. For a richer touch, try a dollop of cream cheese frosting or a light drizzle of caramel sauce — both perfectly complement the spices and applesauce.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of cold milk. For an extra special treat, serve alongside vanilla ice cream or a scoop of cinnamon-spiced whipped cream to echo the cake’s warm flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the cake into squares and stacking them to create mini layers, sandwiching cream cheese frosting or apple butter in between. Alternatively, serve it as a base for a trifle layered with custard and fresh fruit, turning this traditional Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe into a show-stopping dessert centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your cake, store leftovers tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This helps keep the cake moist and flavorful without drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of the Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe by wrapping slices individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a convenient, ready-to-enjoy treat whenever the craving hits.
Reheating
To refresh leftover cake, warm a slice gently in the microwave for about 15 seconds or pop it in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 to 10 minutes. This brings back its soft texture and enhances the scents of those cozy spices.
FAQs
Can I use sweetened applesauce instead of unsweetened?
While sweetened applesauce works, it will increase the overall sweetness of the cake. Adjust your sugar slightly if you prefer a less sugary result, but unsweetened keeps the balance more traditional.
Is it necessary to include nuts and raisins?
Not at all! The nuts and raisins add texture and bursts of flavor, but the cake is delicious on its own. Feel free to omit or substitute with your favorite mix-ins like dried cranberries or chopped dates.
Can this cake be made gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, though the texture might be a little different. Make sure your baking powder is also gluten-free.
What’s the best way to make this cake ahead for a party?
Bake the cake a day in advance to let the flavors meld beautifully. Store it wrapped well in the fridge and serve at room temperature for best taste and texture.
Why does this cake get better after a day?
The resting time allows the spices to deepen and the moisture from the applesauce to fully distribute, resulting in a richer, more cohesive flavor that’s truly scrumptious.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to bring a piece of Amish tradition into your kitchen, this Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe is a must-try. Its warm spices, tender crumb, and moist texture make it an unforgettable treat that’s perfect any time of year. Sharing this cake is like passing down a cherished secret from one friend to another. So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to make a new favorite in your baking repertoire—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: Amish, American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Amish Applesauce Cake is a moist and flavorful spiced cake that combines the natural sweetness of applesauce with warm spices, nuts, and raisins for a hearty, old-fashioned dessert perfect for fall gatherings.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- 2 cups unsweetened applesauce
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup raisins
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps incorporate air for a tender crumb.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the unsweetened applesauce and vanilla extract until well combined, ensuring a smooth, moist batter.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg to evenly distribute the spices and leavening agents.
- Mix Dry and Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently just until combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the cake.
- Fold in Add-ins: Carefully fold in the chopped nuts and raisins if using, for added texture and flavor.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing. This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Notes
- This moist, spiced cake gets better after a day as the flavors deepen.
- For a sweeter touch, dust with powdered sugar or top with cream cheese frosting.
- You can also use chunky applesauce for added texture.
