If you’re on the hunt for a wonderfully cozy dessert that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, this Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a beautifully spiced, moist cake that brings together the natural sweetness of applesauce with aromatic cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, creating a comforting, old-fashioned treat that’s perfect any time of year. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or simply yourself, this cake’s tender crumb and subtle fruity flavor will quickly become a beloved classic in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe so special is its reliance on simple, wholesome ingredients that work together to deliver incredible flavor and texture. Each component plays a crucial role—from the applesauce that keeps the cake moist to the warm spices that add depth and personality.
- Unsweetened applesauce (2 cups): The star of the cake, providing moisture and natural sweetness without extra sugar.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): Forms the base of the cake’s structure for a tender crumb.
- Granulated sugar (1 1/2 cups): Adds essential sweetness, balancing the spices and applesauce.
- Vegetable oil (1/2 cup): Keeps the cake rich and moist without heaviness.
- Large eggs (2): Bind the ingredients together, contributing to the cake’s rise and texture.
- Baking soda (1 1/2 teaspoons): A leavening agent that helps the cake rise perfectly.
- Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Works alongside baking soda to maintain a light crumb.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Infuses warm, fragrant notes that are signature to this cake.
- Ground nutmeg (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle, nutty spice for richness.
- Ground cloves (1/4 teaspoon): Provides a gentle kick of aromatic spice, elevating the flavor profile.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the sweetness and deepens the overall taste.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (1 cup, optional): Adds delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
- Raisins (1 cup, optional): Bring a chewy sweetness that complements the spices beautifully.
How to Make Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×13-inch baking dish so the cake can come out effortlessly once baked. This simple step is key to ensuring your cake keeps its perfect shape and doesn’t stick to the pan.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Combining your dry ingredients in advance evenly distributes the leavening agents and spices, guaranteeing a perfectly spiced cake throughout.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another large bowl, beat the sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs until smooth and slightly fluffy. Then stir in the applesauce and vanilla extract. This mixture creates a flavorful, moist foundation that gives the Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe its famously tender crumb.
Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Ingredients Together
Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cake light and soft. If you’re using nuts or raisins, gently fold them in at this stage to distribute them evenly through every bite.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let your cake cool completely in the pan to firm up before slicing and serving.
How to Serve Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe
Garnishes
This cake shines beautifully on its own, but you can add a dusting of powdered sugar for a simple, elegant finish. For a little extra flair, drizzle a thin glaze made from powdered sugar and a splash of milk or lemon juice, enhancing its sweetness and presentation.
Side Dishes
Serve your slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. A cup of hot tea or spiced chai pairs wonderfully with the warm flavors of the cake, making it an ideal companion for autumn afternoons or cozy gatherings.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform the traditional serving by layering the cake in a trifle dish with whipped cream and sliced fresh apples. Or, cut the cake into small squares and serve as charming bite-sized treats at parties or family get-togethers. No matter how you present it, this Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe is sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, keep your cake covered tightly in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain freshness. For longer storage, refrigerating it for up to a week works well, just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Freezing
This Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Stored this way, it keeps well for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
If you prefer your cake warm, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds or place them in a preheated oven at 300°F for 10 minutes. This warms the cake through without drying it, allowing you to savor that comforting, fresh-baked feeling all over again.
FAQs
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend of equal measure, making sure it includes xanthan gum to help with structure. The cake may have a slightly different texture, but it will still be delicious.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! This Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe is naturally dairy-free since it uses vegetable oil instead of butter. Just double-check that your sugar is vegan and, if desired, substitute the eggs with flax eggs for a fully plant-based version.
Can I add other fruits or nuts?
Definitely. While the classic recipe uses raisins and walnuts or pecans, feel free to switch it up with dried cranberries, chopped dates, or your favorite nuts. Just keep the quantity about the same to maintain the cake’s balance.
How long does the cake keep fresh?
Stored properly in an airtight container, your Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe stays fresh at room temperature for up to three days. Refrigeration can extend this to about a week without compromising taste or moisture.
Can I make cupcakes using this recipe?
Yes, you can bake this batter as cupcakes! Adjust the baking time to about 20-25 minutes and keep an eye on them as they bake. They make for fantastic single-serving treats that highlight the same classic flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe is one of those timeless desserts that brings joy with every bite. Its moist texture, cozy spices, and easy preparation make it a real winner whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving something sweet and comforting. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the simple magic of this charming cake in your own kitchen.
Print
Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Amish, American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Amish Applesauce Cake is a moist and spiced dessert that combines the natural sweetness of unsweetened applesauce with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Enhanced with optional nuts and raisins, this old-fashioned cake is perfect for fall gatherings and offers a wholesome, flavorful treat that’s both easy to make and delightfully tender.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Wet Ingredients
- 2 cups unsweetened applesauce
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Add-ins
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1 cup raisins
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure an easy release after baking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This blend of spices imparts a warm, rich flavor to the cake.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate large bowl, beat the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs until smooth and fully incorporated, creating a creamy base for the cake batter.
- Add applesauce and vanilla: Stir the unsweetened applesauce and vanilla extract into the wet mixture, enhancing moisture and natural sweetness.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overworking the batter and keeping the cake tender.
- Fold in optional nuts and raisins: If desired, carefully fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans and raisins to add texture and bursts of flavor.
- Pour batter and bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating that the cake is fully cooked.
- Cool before serving: Allow the cake to cool in the pan before slicing and serving to let it set properly for the best texture.
Notes
- You can dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar or top it with a simple glaze for added sweetness and presentation.
- For a dairy-free version, ensure the sugar used is vegan and substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg).
- Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
