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
Scale
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.
