Amish Applesauce Cake

There’s something magical about the smell of warm spices and applesauce wafting through the kitchen. It’s the kind of scent that makes you stop whatever you’re doing and follow your nose straight to the oven. That’s exactly what happened the first time I tried making Amish applesauce cake. I was looking for a simple, comforting dessert that felt like a hug in cake form, and this recipe delivered. It’s moist, subtly sweet, and packed with all those cozy spices that make you think of crisp fall days and family gatherings.

I remember my grandma used to make something similar, though she never called it “Amish.” She’d just say, “It’s an old-fashioned cake, dear,” and serve it with a cup of tea. When I stumbled upon this version, I knew I had to try it. What I love most is how easy it is to throw together, no fancy techniques, no hard-to-find ingredients. Just good, honest baking that feels like home. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, this Amish applesauce cake is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen too.

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Why You’ll Love This Amish Applesauce Cake

This Amish Applesauce Cake isn’t just delicious, it’s downright addictive. Here’s why it’ll become your new go-to dessert:

• Unbelievably moist: The applesauce keeps every bite tender, so it never dries out (even days later!).
• Effortless to make: No fancy mixer needed, just a bowl and spoon will do the trick.
• Warm spice magic: That cozy cinnamon-nutmeg combo smells like autumn in your oven.
• Perfect for anything: Dress it up with glaze for parties, or enjoy a slice with coffee for breakfast (no judgment here).
• Forgiving recipe: Forget to soften the butter? Toss in extra nuts? It still turns out great.

Trust me, one bite and you’ll understand why this cake’s been loved for generations.

Ingredients for Amish Applesauce Cake

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Amish Applesauce Cake. I’ve kept it simple; most of these are pantry staples you probably already have on hand:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (use a heaping teaspoon if you’re a spice lover like me!)
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (don’t skip the softening, it makes all the difference!)
• 1 cup packed brown sugar (the molasses in it gives such a rich flavor)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups unsweetened applesauce (homemade is amazing, but store-bought works too)
• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, but they add a nice crunch)
• ½ cup raisins (optional, but they’re a sweet little surprise in every bite)

For the Glaze (Optional):

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk (any kind works, I’ve even used almond milk in a pinch)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

That’s it! Simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to make something truly special. Now, let’s get baking!

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this Amish Applesauce Cake is how adaptable it is. Don’t have walnuts? No problem! Here are my favorite swaps and tweaks that still keep the cake tasting amazing:

• Nut-free option: Skip the walnuts or swap in sunflower seeds for crunch. Or go wild with shredded coconut!
• Fruit swaps: Not a raisin fan? Try dried cranberries or chopped dates instead. I’ve even used diced fresh apples when I was out of dried fruit.
• Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend (I like the ones with xanthan gum already added). The applesauce keeps it moist so you won’t miss the gluten.
• Sweetener changes: White sugar works if you’re out of brown, but you’ll lose some depth. For refined sugar-free, coconut sugar is my go-to.
• Dairy-free: Swap the butter for coconut oil (measure it solid) and use your favorite non-dairy milk in the glaze.
• Spice lovers: Add a pinch of cardamom or ginger for extra warmth. My aunt adds a tablespoon of molasses for a deeper flavor.

The key is keeping the wet-to-dry ratio about the same. This Amish Applesauce Cake is so forgiving. I’ve probably made a dozen variations, and they’ve all turned out delicious!

How to Make Amish Applesauce Cake

This Amish Applesauce Cake comes together so easily, it’s basically foolproof! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a warm, spiced masterpiece ready in no time. The hardest part? Waiting for it to cool before you dig in!

Preparing the Batter

First things first: preheat that oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your 9×9-inch pan really well. Trust me, you don’t want to lose a single crumb of this cake to sticking!

Now, grab a big bowl and whisk together all your dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set this aside while you work your butter magic. In another bowl (I use my trusty stand mixer, but a hand mixer works great too), cream the softened butter and brown sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This takes about 2-3 minutes, don’t rush it! Then beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla.

Here’s my favorite trick: alternate adding the dry ingredients and applesauce to the butter mixture. Start and end with the dry stuff, mixing just until combined each time. Seriously, stop mixing as soon as you don’t see streaks of flour. Overmixing makes a tough cake, and nobody wants that!

Baking and Glazing the Cake

Pour that gorgeous batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Pop it in the oven and resist the urge to open the door for at least 30 minutes! Around the 35-minute mark, start testing with a toothpick, it should come out with just a few moist crumbs (not wet batter). Mine usually takes about 38 minutes.

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes; this helps it set, then transfer to a wire rack. While it cools, whisk together the glaze ingredients until smooth. Want perfect drizzle lines? Let the cake cool completely before glazing. Or be like me and drizzle it while still warm, so the glaze soaks in a little, both ways are delicious!

Tips for the Best Amish Applesauce Cake

After making this Amish Applesauce Cake more times than I can count, I’ve picked up a few tricks to make it absolutely perfect every time:

• Homemade applesauce is king: It gives the deepest apple flavor (and it’s so easy, just simmer peeled apples with a splash of water and cinnamon).
• Room temp ingredients matter: Cold eggs can make the batter separate, so take them out an hour before baking.
• Grease with love: For foolproof release, butter the pan, then dust with flour, tapping out the excess.
• Spice to taste: Add a pinch of cloves or allspice if you like things extra cozy.
• The toothpick lie: If it comes out clean but the center still jiggles, give it 2 more minutes.

These little things make a big difference; your cake will thank you!

Storing and Serving Amish Applesauce Cake

• This Amish Applesauce Cake stays moist for days, making it perfect for meal prep or unexpected guests.
• Once it’s completely cooled, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you’re in a humid climate, popping it in the fridge helps, but let it come to room temperature before serving, or better yet, warm it up for 10 seconds in the microwave.
• Trust me, it’s heavenly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
• My favorite way to enjoy it? With a strong cup of coffee in the morning, it’s basically breakfast, right?

Nutritional Information for Amish Applesauce Cake

Here’s the scoop on what’s in each delicious slice of Amish Applesauce Cake (based on 12 servings):

About 350 calories, 12g fat, and 55g carbs, but let’s be real, this cake is worth every bite!

Remember: These are estimates, actual values change depending on your exact ingredients and how thick you slice it. Always check labels if you’re tracking closely!

Amish Applesauce Cake FAQs

Warm & Homestyle Desserts to Bake Next

Love the cozy, old-fashioned flavors in this Amish Applesauce Cake? These comforting recipes bring warm spices, tender crumb, and nostalgic sweetness to your kitchen.

• Enjoy fall-inspired goodness with these buttery and flaky Apple Pie Biscuits for a simple and cozy apple treat.
• Savor classic warmth with this soft and crumb-topped Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake, perfect with hot tea or coffee.
• Try these chewy and cinnamon-sweet Snickerdoodle Cookie Bars for a rich and easy snack everyone loves.
• Enjoy moist spice flavor in these fudgy Sweet Potato Brownies for a wholesome and cozy bite.

These homemade-style desserts are perfect for cozy gatherings or afternoon treats. Save your favorites and bake them soon!

Share Your Amish Applesauce Cake Experience

I’d love to hear how your baking adventure turns out! Did you add any special twists? Maybe throw in some cranberries or a dash of cardamom? Snap a photo of your masterpiece and tag me on Instagram, or share it in the comments. Nothing makes me happier than seeing your kitchen successes. Happy baking!

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