Amish Applesauce Cake: The Ultimate Recipe and Baking Guide

Amish Applesauce Cake: Prepare to be transported to a simpler time with this incredibly moist and flavorful cake! Imagine the warm, comforting aroma of cinnamon and apples filling your kitchen, promising a slice of pure, unadulterated happiness. This isn’t just any cake; it’s a taste of tradition, a slice of history, and a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, wholesome ingredients.

The Amish, known for their commitment to a traditional way of life, have perfected the art of baking with what they have on hand. Applesauce cake, in particular, is a staple in many Amish communities, often made with applesauce from their own orchards. It represents resourcefulness and the beauty of creating something extraordinary from the everyday. This recipe for Amish Applesauce Cake is a delightful adaptation of that time-honored tradition.

What makes this cake so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of sweet and spice, the incredibly moist texture that practically melts in your mouth, and the sheer simplicity of the recipe. It’s a cake that’s easy to make, perfect for any occasion, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re enjoying it with a cup of coffee on a crisp autumn morning or serving it as a comforting dessert after a hearty meal, this Amish Applesauce Cake is sure to become a new family favorite.

Ingredients:

• For the Cake:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup applesauce (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
• 1 cup raisins (optional)
• 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• For the Brown Sugar Glaze:
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Preparing the Cake Batter:

1. Preheat and Prepare: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. I like to use a baking spray that contains flour for extra insurance against sticking, but the classic method works just fine too. Make sure every nook and cranny is covered!
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Whisking is key here to ensure everything is evenly distributed. This prevents pockets of baking soda or spices that can throw off the flavor. Set this bowl aside for now.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl (or the bowl of your stand mixer), cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes on medium speed. The mixture should be noticeably lighter in color and have a smooth, almost whipped texture. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, which will result in a tender cake. Don’t rush it!
4. Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. After adding the eggs, scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
5. Incorporate Applesauce: Gradually add the applesauce to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to a tough cake.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Again, be careful not to overmix. I usually add the dry ingredients in three additions, alternating with the applesauce if I feel the batter is getting too thick.
7. Add Nuts and Raisins (Optional): If you’re using raisins and/or nuts, gently fold them into the batter until evenly distributed. I love the added texture and flavor they bring, but the cake is delicious without them too!

Baking the Cake:

1. Pour into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared 9×13 inch baking pan and spread it evenly.
2. Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so start checking for doneness around 30 minutes. The cake should be golden brown on top and spring back lightly when touched.
3. Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before frosting. This allows the cake to set slightly and prevents it from crumbling when you frost it.

Preparing the Brown Sugar Glaze:

1. Melt Butter: While the cake is cooling, prepare the brown sugar glaze. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add Milk and Brown Sugar: Stir in the milk and brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the brown sugar is completely dissolved. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
3. Boil Briefly: Once the brown sugar is dissolved, let the mixture simmer for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This will thicken the glaze slightly. Be careful not to burn the glaze.
4. Remove from Heat: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. The salt helps to balance the sweetness of the glaze.

Frosting the Cake:

1. Pour Glaze: While the cake is still slightly warm, pour the brown sugar glaze evenly over the top. The warmth of the cake will help the glaze to soak in slightly.
2. Let Set: Let the glaze set completely before cutting and serving. This usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour. The glaze will become slightly firmer as it cools.

Tips for Success:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature butter and eggs is crucial for creating a smooth and emulsified batter. This helps to incorporate air and results in a tender cake.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
• Check for Doneness: Use a wooden skewer to check for doneness. If the skewer comes out clean, the cake is ready.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cake, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the cake batter or the glaze.
• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Variations: Feel free to experiment with different spices, such as cardamom or ginger. You can also add other fruits, such as cranberries or chopped apples.

Enjoy!

This Amish Applesauce Cake is a family favorite, and I hope you enjoy it as much as we do! It’s perfect for a cozy fall day or any time you’re craving a comforting and delicious treat.

Conclusion:

This Amish Applesauce Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a warm hug on a plate, a comforting reminder of simpler times, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I truly believe this is a must-try recipe for anyone who appreciates the beauty of simple, wholesome ingredients transformed into something truly special. The moist, tender crumb, the subtle spice notes, and the comforting apple flavor all combine to create a cake that’s both satisfying and utterly addictive. But what makes this cake truly exceptional is its versatility. While it’s absolutely divine served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, the possibilities are endless! For a truly decadent experience, try drizzling it with a homemade caramel sauce. The rich, buttery caramel perfectly complements the applesauce and spices, creating a symphony of flavors that will dance on your taste buds. Looking for something a little lighter? A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance without overpowering the cake’s natural flavors. Or, for a more rustic presentation, consider serving it with a side of sharp cheddar cheese. The savory cheese provides a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the cake, creating a surprisingly satisfying combination. And don’t be afraid to experiment with variations! If you’re a fan of nuts, try adding a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter. The added crunch and nutty flavor will elevate the cake to a whole new level. You could also incorporate other fruits, such as raisins, cranberries, or even chopped dates, for a unique twist. For a spicier version, increase the amount of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves. A pinch of cardamom can also add a warm, exotic note. Another fantastic variation is to bake the batter in muffin tins instead of a cake pan. These Amish Applesauce Cake muffins are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even lunchboxes. They’re also a great option for portion control! And if you’re feeling adventurous, you could even try adding a cream cheese frosting to the muffins for an extra touch of indulgence. I’ve made this cake countless times, and each time it’s a resounding success. It’s the perfect dessert for family gatherings, potlucks, or simply a cozy night in. It’s also a wonderful gift to share with friends and neighbors. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your baking repertoire. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of this incredible cake. I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you’ve baked your own Amish Applesauce Cake, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What did you serve it with? Share your photos and stories in the comments below! I can’t wait to see what you create. Happy baking! Print