Name: Delicious Amish Applesauce Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1½ teaspoons baking soda; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon ground cloves; ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup brown sugar, packed; 2 large eggs; 2 cups unsweetened applesauce; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional); 1 cup raisins (optional)

If you’re seeking a dessert that embodies the essence of comfort and nostalgia, look no further than this iconic Amish Applesauce Cake. This delightful recipe perfectly marries moistness with the warm spices of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, complemented beautifully by the natural sweetness of applesauce. It’s a cake that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also brings families and friends together. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy treat with your afternoon coffee or as a charming finale to dinner, you’ll find this old-fashioned dessert is an absolute crowd-pleaser.

What makes this cake so appealing is its ease of preparation, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. The ingredients come together in a matter of minutes, with no complex techniques required. You’ll appreciate the wholesome flavor profile that comes from using applesauce as a primary ingredient, offering a slice of happiness that echoes the traditions of Amish cooking. Plus, with the option to include nuts and raisins, you can easily customize it to suit your personal taste preference. Let’s dive deeper into why this Amish Applesauce Cake deserves a spot on your dessert table!

Why You’ll Love This Amish Applesauce Cake

Warm, Spiced Flavor: The combination of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg delivers a flavor that’s both cozy and inviting.
Moist and Delicious: Thanks to the applesauce, this cake is wonderfully moist, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.
Simple to Make: With easy-to-follow steps, this cake is a perfect option for both novice and experienced bakers.
Customizable: Add your favorite nuts or dried fruits to personalize it just the way you like.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or just a casual family dinner, this cake is always a hit.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you start baking this delightful Amish Applesauce Cake, it’s important to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature by the time you’re ready to bake. Greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish will prevent the cake from sticking, so don’t skip that step!

You’ll need a good quality mixing bowl and whisk for combining the dry ingredients, alongside a large mixing bowl and an electric mixer to cream the butter and sugars together. If you wish to include nuts and raisins, make sure to have a chopping board and knife ready. Measuring cups and spoons will also be essential throughout the process. With everything organized and within reach, you’ll find the experience smooth and enjoyable.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1½ teaspoons baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground cloves
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
2 cups unsweetened applesauce
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
1 cup raisins (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that the cake bakes evenly and thoroughly. While the oven is heating, you can prepare your baking dish by greasing it. This will prevent sticking, making it easier to remove the cake once it’s baked.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Make sure that these dry ingredients are well combined; this question is key because it helps the cake rise uniformly and enhances its flavor by evenly distributing the spices.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process introduces air into the batter, which is essential for achieving a light texture in the final cake.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Wet Ingredients

Beat the eggs into the creamed butter and sugar mixture one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Next, add in the applesauce and vanilla extract, stirring continuously until everything is thoroughly combined. The applesauce not only sweetens the cake but also contributes to its moistness.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Gradually add the previously prepared dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; overmixing at this stage can lead to a denser cake. If you decided to use them, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans along with the raisins at this point.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Every oven is slightly different, so be sure to check around the 35-minute mark to avoid overbaking.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the baking dish for about 10 minutes. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. If you like, dust the top with powdered sugar or drizzle a glaze for added sweetness before slicing into squares to serve.

Variations

Protein: For a healthier version, consider adding protein powder to the dry ingredients for extra nutrition.
Vegetables: You can incorporate shredded carrots or zucchini for added moisture and nutrition.
Spices: Experiment by adding ginger or allspice for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Notes

Feel free to use homemade applesauce for a fresher taste.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheat slices in the microwave for a warm treat, perfect with a scoop of ice cream.

Serving Suggestions

Pair the cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Serve with a warm cup of tea or coffee, making it an excellent option for afternoon gatherings.

Tips

Always measure your flour accurately for the best results; too much can dry out the cake.
Let the cake cool completely before icing or frosting to prevent melting.
Try swapping out the granulated sugar for coconut sugar for a lower-glycemic option.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 250 per slice
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 150mg

FAQs

How can I store leftover Amish Applesauce Cake?

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate it to prolong freshness.

Can I use sweetened applesauce?

Yes, you can use sweetened applesauce, but you may want to reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe to avoid making the cake too sweet.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that performs well in baking.

Can I freeze Amish Applesauce Cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

In summary, the Amish Applesauce Cake offers a sumptuous blend of flavors and textures that make it a favorite among dessert lovers. Its simplicity, combined with the ability to customize and adapt to personal preferences, makes this cake an excellent recipe to have in your repertoire. Whether you serve it at a special occasion or enjoy a slice with your morning coffee, this cake is sure to be a hit! Feel free to share your variations, personal stories, or any memorable experiences associated with this dish in the comments below. Happy baking!