There’s something truly special about old-fashioned recipes that have been passed down through generations. One of those beloved classics is the Amish Applesauce Cake. Moist, warmly spiced, and incredibly simple to make, this cake captures the essence of comfort baking at its best. Perfect with a hot cup of coffee, a drizzle of glaze, or simply enjoyed plain, this cake brings the cozy flavors of fall to your table any time of year.
Why You’ll Love This Cake
Simple Ingredients: No complicated or hard-to-find items—just pantry staples.
Richly Spiced: Cinnamon and nutmeg give the cake a warm, aromatic flavor.
Moist & Tender: Applesauce keeps the cake soft without needing much fat.
Versatile Treat: Delicious for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack.
Ingredients
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp baking powder
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground nutmeg
½ cup applesauce
½ cup granulated sugar
(Optional add-ins: ½ cup raisins, ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans, or a dusting of powdered sugar for serving.)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This ensures the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the applesauce and sugar until well combined. The applesauce adds natural sweetness and moisture, while the sugar balances the flavor.
Step 4: Bring It Together
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense. If you’re using raisins or nuts, gently fold them in at this stage.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with a light glaze, or serve as-is for a wholesome treat.
Tips & Variations
Make it Extra Moist: Add 2 tbsp of vegetable oil or melted butter for an even richer texture.
Boost the Spice: Try adding ground cloves or allspice for a stronger flavor.
Glaze It: A simple vanilla or cream cheese glaze makes this cake extra special.
Serve with Ice Cream: Pair a warm slice with vanilla ice cream for a heavenly dessert.
Final Thoughts
This Amish Applesauce Cake is more than just a recipe—it’s a little slice of tradition. Its rustic charm and comforting flavors remind us that sometimes the simplest desserts are the most memorable. Whether you serve it at a family gathering, enjoy it with tea on a quiet afternoon, or bake it to share with friends, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
If you’re looking for a cake that’s easy to make yet rich in history and flavor, Amish Applesauce Cake is a must-try! Serve it with a cup of tea, coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.