Amish Applesauce Cake Recipe
This Amish applesauce cake recipe is a cozy, spiced dessert that’s simple to make and bursting with apple flavor. The applesauce keeps the cake moist, while cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth. Perfect for fall gatherings or a family treat, it’s a rustic, no-fuss cake. Optional walnuts and raisins bring extra texture. Serve it plain or with whipped cream for a comforting slice of tradition.
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Cooling rack
- Oven Mitts
Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour 2 cups: Forms the cake’s structure.
- Granulated Sugar 1 ½ cups: Sweetens the cake.
- Unsweetened Applesauce 1 ½ cups: Adds moisture and apple flavor.
- Vegetable Oil ½ cup: Keeps the cake tender.
- Eggs 2 large: Bind the ingredients together.
- Baking Soda 1 tsp: Helps the cake rise.
- Baking Powder 1 tsp: Ensures a light texture.
- Ground Cinnamon 1 tsp: Adds warm, spicy notes.
- Ground Nutmeg ½ tsp: Enhances the fall flavor.
- Salt ½ tsp: Balances the sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract 1 tsp: Rounds out the flavors.
- Chopped Walnuts ¾ cup, optional: Adds a nutty crunch.
- Raisins ¾ cup, optional: For extra sweetness and texture.
Instructions
Step 1: Grease the Pan
- Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray. This prevents the cake from sticking. Set the pan aside.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Ensure the spices are evenly distributed. This forms the dry base.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
- In another bowl, mix applesauce, sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and well-combined. The mixture should be slightly thick.
Step 4: Make the Batter
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Fold in walnuts and raisins if using. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
Step 5: Pour into Pan
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top. Ensure the batter reaches all corners for uniform baking.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown. Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
- Transfer the cake to a cooling rack or leave it in the pan to cool completely. Cut into squares and serve. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.