Amish Applesauce Cake

A beloved classic in Amish kitchens, this Applesauce Cake is everything you want in a dessert: rich in warm spices, incredibly moist, and deeply comforting. This cake uses simple pantry ingredients and applesauce to deliver a tender crumb with old-fashioned flavor that makes every bite memorable. Perfect for gatherings, afternoon tea, or a cozy night in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Amish Applesauce Cake stands out for its simplicity and flavor. You’ll love how easy it is to make with everyday ingredients and how the applesauce keeps it deliciously moist. It tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for make-ahead occasions. Whether served plain, with a dusting of powdered sugar, or a cream cheese frosting, it never disappoints.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground cloves
• Ground nutmeg
• Salt
• Unsweetened applesauce
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Eggs
• Vegetable oil or melted butter
• Vanilla extract
• Optional: chopped nuts or raisins

directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 8-inch round pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the applesauce, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, oil (or melted butter), and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until well combined. If using, fold in nuts or raisins.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s) and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow to cool completely before serving. Optionally, top with powdered sugar or cream cheese frosting.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 12-15 servings.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

• Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Stir in 1/2 cup of raisins or dried cranberries for extra sweetness.
• Top with a glaze or cream cheese frosting for a dessert-style finish.
• Substitute whole wheat flour for half the all-purpose flour for a heartier texture.
• Add 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger for an extra spice kick.

storage/reheating

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to 1 week. This cake also freezes well; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. To reheat individual slices, microwave for 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

How do I make sure my applesauce cake stays moist?

Use unsweetened applesauce and don’t overbake. The moisture from the applesauce helps keep the cake tender.

Can I use homemade applesauce?

Yes, homemade applesauce works great and adds even more flavor. Just make sure it’s unsweetened and smooth.

What can I use instead of vegetable oil?

You can substitute melted butter, coconut oil, or even Greek yogurt for a slightly different texture and flavor.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Is it okay to add frosting?

Absolutely. A cream cheese frosting or vanilla glaze pairs beautifully with the spice flavors of this cake.

Can I bake this in a bundt pan?

Yes, just adjust the baking time slightly. It may take 50-55 minutes; check with a toothpick for doneness.

Does this cake need to be refrigerated?

Not unless you’re storing it for more than 3 days or if it’s frosted with a perishable frosting like cream cheese.

Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar slightly without affecting texture, though it may be less sweet.

What’s the best way to serve this cake?

Serve it plain, with a dusting of powdered sugar, or topped with whipped cream or frosting.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, in fact it tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to develop.

Conclusion

Amish Applesauce Cake is a timeless dessert that’s easy to make and full of old-fashioned charm. With its moist crumb, spiced flavor, and simple ingredients, it’s the perfect cake for any occasion. Enjoy it fresh, store it for later, or dress it up for guests—either way, it’s a cozy, comforting treat that never goes out of style.

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