Amish Applesauce Cake

This Amish Applesauce Cake is a timeless, moist, and flavorful dessert made with applesauce and warm spices. It’s a one-bowl recipe that delivers a tender crumb and delightful sweetness, perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar, this cake embodies the simplicity and comfort of traditional Amish baking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: Requires just one bowl and basic pantry ingredients.
• Perfectly moist: The applesauce ensures a tender, moist texture.
• Rich flavor: A harmonious blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
• Versatile: Enjoy it plain, with a glaze, or a dollop of whipped cream.
• Great for gatherings: Simple yet impressive for potlucks or family meals.

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 nutmeg
• Ground cloves
• Salt
• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Eggs
• Unsweetened applesauce
• Vanilla extract
• Optional: chopped nuts or raisins

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or prepare a bundt pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream the butter and both sugars until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Mix in the applesauce and vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
5. If desired, fold in the chopped nuts or raisins.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes

Variations

• Glazed Applesauce Cake: Top with a simple vanilla glaze or cream cheese frosting for added sweetness.
• Add-ins: Incorporate dried cranberries, shredded coconut, or chocolate chips for a fun twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom for extra warmth.
• Mini Cakes: Divide the batter into muffin tins for individual servings.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Enjoy at room temperature or warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I use sweetened applesauce instead of unsweetened?

Yes, but you may want to reduce the sugar slightly to balance the sweetness.

2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! The flavors develop even more after a day or two, making it ideal for advance preparation.

3. Can I use oil instead of butter?

Yes, you can substitute an equal amount of vegetable oil for the butter.

4. Can I omit the nuts or raisins?

Of course! The cake is delicious even without these additions.

5. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, replace the eggs with flaxseed eggs and use plant-based butter or oil.

6. What kind of applesauce works best?

Unsweetened applesauce is ideal to control the sweetness, but you can use homemade or store-bought.

7. How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

8. Can I bake this in a loaf pan?

Yes, but adjust the baking time to around 50-60 minutes.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and use two pans or a larger baking dish.

10. Can I use this recipe to make cupcakes?

Certainly! Reduce the baking time to 18-22 minutes and check for doneness.

Conclusion

Amish Applesauce Cake is a heartwarming dessert that combines simplicity with rich flavors. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or just because, this recipe delivers every time. Customize it to suit your preferences and enjoy the delicious results!

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