Introduction – A Slice of Tradition and Comfort

The Amish Applesauce Cake is a perfect blend of tradition, flavor, and simplicity. Deeply rooted in the heritage of Amish cooking, this dessert epitomizes wholesome baking using ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. It’s the kind of recipe that reminds us of a simpler time when food was made with care, shared with loved ones, and enjoyed around the family table.

This cake is incredibly moist, thanks to the applesauce, and perfectly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg. The subtle sweetness and soft crumb make it versatile enough for a weeknight dessert, yet special enough for holiday celebrations or potluck gatherings. The addition of raisins or nuts is optional but can elevate the texture and flavor to new heights.

What makes this recipe truly exceptional is its simplicity. It’s easy to prepare, forgiving for beginner bakers, and uses no hard-to-find ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, the Amish Applesauce Cake is a surefire way to impress without stress.

If you’re craving a dessert that combines nostalgic charm with a modern twist, this cake delivers on all fronts. Ready to bake a slice of history? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Basic Recipe – How to Make Amish Applesauce Cake

Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe – Moist, Spiced, and Perfect for Any Occasion

Author: Jennifer Mitchell
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Amish Applesauce Cake is a moist, spiced dessert that’s simple to make yet packed with flavor. This classic recipe combines the natural sweetness of applesauce with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a comforting treat perfect for family gatherings or cozy afternoons. The addition of raisins and nuts is optional but adds delightful texture and richness. Pair it with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a nostalgic experience.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups sugar
½ cup shortening
1 cup unsweetened applesauce
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ cup raisins (optional)
½ cup chopped nuts (optional, walnuts or pecans work best)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or a bundt pan.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the shortening and sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the unsweetened applesauce until well combined.
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure a tender cake.
Fold in the raisins and chopped nuts, if using, to evenly distribute them throughout the batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish or bundt pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes (for a baking dish) or 45–50 minutes (for a bundt pan), or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with cream cheese frosting.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Substitute butter for shortening for a richer flavor.
For a festive twist, add ¼ teaspoon ground cloves or allspice to the batter.
If you prefer a lighter texture, sift the flour before measuring.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 1/12th of the cake)
Calories: 280
Sugar: 22g
Sodium: 160mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 7.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Amish Applesauce Cake

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9-inch square or round baking pan.
Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This ensures even distribution of the spices throughout the batter.
Cream Shortening and Sugar:
In a separate large bowl, cream the shortening and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is key for a soft, tender cake.
Incorporate Applesauce:
Gradually beat the applesauce into the creamed mixture. It adds moisture and a natural sweetness to the cake.
Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the cake dense. If using raisins or nuts, fold them in at this stage.
Bake:
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 40-45 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve:
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with cream cheese frosting.

Advanced Techniques – Customizing Amish Applesauce Cake

1. Add Frosting for Extra Flavor

While the cake is delicious on its own, a frosting can make it extraordinary. A cream cheese frosting, made with cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla, complements the cake’s warm spices perfectly.

2. Incorporate Fresh Apples

For added texture and flavor, fold in 1 cup of finely diced fresh apples into the batter. This gives the cake a fresh, fruity bite that pairs beautifully with the applesauce.

3. Experiment with Spice Blends

While cinnamon and nutmeg are traditional, adding a pinch of ground cloves or allspice can elevate the flavor. You can even try pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.

4. Top with Streusel Crumb

Create a crumb topping by combining flour, brown sugar, and butter. Sprinkle this over the batter before baking for a delightful crunch.

5. Make It Vegan

Substitute shortening with vegan butter, and replace eggs (if you add any) with flaxseed meal or additional applesauce. This adaptation makes the cake suitable for plant-based diets while retaining its classic flavor.

6. Bake into Cupcakes or Mini Loaves

For individual portions, bake the batter in a cupcake tin or mini loaf pans. Adjust the baking time to 20-25 minutes for cupcakes.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

Storing Leftovers

To keep the cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’ve added frosting, it’s best stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing the Cake

This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or for a few hours at room temperature.

Reheating Tips

To enjoy the cake warm, microwave individual slices for 10-15 seconds. This refreshes the moisture and enhances the flavor, making it taste freshly baked.

Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

1. Gluten-Free Version

Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Ensure that your baking soda and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

2. Low-Sugar Adaptation

Reduce the sugar to 1 cup and replace it with a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit for a lower-calorie option.

3. Dairy-Free Alternative

Replace the shortening with dairy-free margarine or coconut oil. The result will still be rich and flavorful.

4. Nut-Free Option

Skip the nuts entirely if you’re accommodating allergies. Add raisins or dried cranberries for texture instead.

FAQs – Common Questions About Amish Applesauce Cake

1. Can I use homemade applesauce instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Homemade applesauce works wonderfully and adds a personal touch. Just ensure it’s unsweetened to avoid overpowering the flavor.

2. What other pans can I use?
You can use a bundt pan or loaf pan instead of a square one. Just adjust the baking time accordingly—loaves may take slightly longer.

3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! The flavors deepen when the cake sits overnight. Store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.

4. What can I serve with Amish Applesauce Cake?
Pair it with vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent treat.

Conclusion – The Perfect Amish Applesauce Cake

The Amish Applesauce Cake is more than a dessert—it’s a celebration of tradition, simplicity, and the joy of homemade baking. Its moist crumb, delicate sweetness, and warm spices make it a dessert for all occasions. Whether you enjoy it plain, frosted, or with a creative twist, this cake is a delightful reminder of the power of simple, wholesome ingredients.

So, why wait? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the comforting aroma of this timeless treat fill your kitchen. Share it with loved ones, savor it with a cup of tea, or make it the star of your next gathering.