There’s something deeply comforting about an old-fashioned cake recipe especially one that fills your kitchen with the cozy scent of cinnamon, cloves, and apples. This Amish Applesauce Cake is like a warm hug straight from Grandma’s kitchen. Moist, lightly spiced, and brimming with tender raisins and crunchy nuts, it’s the kind of cake you make once and then crave forever. It’s not overly sweet, but just sweet enough, making it perfect for breakfast with coffee, an afternoon snack, or a humble-yet-irresistible dessert. Trust me, you’re going to love this one it’s a slice of simple, nostalgic goodness.

Why You’ll Love Amish Applesauce Cake

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Works as breakfast, snack, or dessert and it’s just as tasty warm or chilled.

Budget-Friendly: Made with pantry staples and no fancy ingredients required.

Quick and Easy: No mixer needed just mix, bake, and enjoy.

Customizable: Add raisins, walnuts, or even chocolate chips to make it your own.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Amish Applesauce Cake

This cake is rich with fall spices and simple ingredients that come together like magic in the oven.

Applesauce: The star of the show. It keeps the cake incredibly moist and adds subtle natural sweetness.

Brown Sugar: Adds a rich, caramel-like depth that pairs beautifully with the spices.

All-Purpose Flour: Gives the cake structure while keeping it soft and tender.

Eggs: Help bind the ingredients and add richness.

Butter or Oil: Adds moisture and a slight richness that makes every bite melt in your mouth.

Cinnamon, Cloves, and Nutmeg: These warm spices give the cake its signature comforting flavor.

Baking Soda and Salt: Help the cake rise and balance the sweetness.

Raisins and Chopped Nuts (Optional): Add texture and bursts of flavor in every bite.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together applesauce, brown sugar, eggs, and melted butter or oil until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.

Bring It Together: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Add Mix-Ins: Fold in raisins and chopped nuts if using. These give the cake a delightful texture and extra flavor.

Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool Completely: Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack before slicing. The aroma will be tempting but trust me, it’s worth the wait.

Serve and Enjoy: Dust with powdered sugar or top with a dollop of whipped cream for a simple but elegant finish.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 290

Note: Nutrition values may vary depending on exact ingredients used.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

How to Serve Amish Applesauce Cake

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• Enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or cinnamon whipped cream.
• Serve with a mug of coffee or spiced chai for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Top with cream cheese frosting if you want to take it over the top.
• Pack slices in lunchboxes or serve at brunch it’s super portable and always loved.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Use unsweetened applesauce to better control the sweetness level.
• Toast the nuts before adding them for extra flavor and crunch.
• For an extra-moist cake, store it covered overnight it gets even better the next day.
• If you like a denser cake, reduce the baking time slightly and test early.
• Add a sprinkle of turbinado sugar on top before baking for a light crunch.

FAQ’s

1 Can I use homemade applesauce
Yes! Just make sure it’s smooth and not too watery to keep the cake texture balanced.

2 Can I leave out the raisins or nuts
Absolutely. The cake is delicious with or without them totally up to your preference.

3 Is this cake freezer-friendly
Yes! Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

4 Can I make this cake gluten-free
You can substitute with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour for similar results.

5 What kind of applesauce works best
Unsweetened is best, but sweetened can work just reduce the sugar slightly.

6 Can I bake this in a bundt pan
Yes! Just be sure to grease the pan well and adjust the bake time (usually around 50–55 minutes).

7 Can I use oil instead of butter
Definitely. Use a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil for a moist texture.

8 How do I store leftovers
Keep covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

9 Is this cake good for breakfast
Oh yes it’s not overly sweet, so it makes a perfect coffee companion in the morning.

10 Can I add a glaze on top
Yes! A simple powdered sugar glaze or cream cheese drizzle would be amazing.

Conclusion

Amish Applesauce Cake is the kind of recipe that feels like home. It’s easy to make, full of comforting spices, and just sweet enough to brighten your day. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or sneaking a quiet slice with your morning coffee, every bite brings warmth and joy. Simple, humble, and totally satisfying this cake is the definition of timeless comfort.

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