Have you ever stumbled upon a recipe that instantly transports you to a cozy kitchen filled with the warm aroma of spices and baked apples? Well, that’s precisely what happened to me with this delightful Amish Applesauce Cake. I first encountered it at a family gathering, where my dear grandmother, an incredible cook, presented it with such love that I couldn’t help but fall in love with it at first bite. This cake became a family treasure over the years, bringing us comfort and filling our home with the sweet scent of apples and cinnamon.
What’s remarkable about this Amish Applesauce Cake is its simplicity. It’s one of those recipes that requires little effort yet delivers an impressive result. With every bite, you’re greeted with the rich flavors of apples and warm spices, and the texture from the walnuts adds a delightful crunch that complements the cake’s tender crumb. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast or dessert, it’s an instant crowd-pleaser.
This cake reminds me of the comfort and warmth of family gatherings—the kind where stories are shared over steaming cups of coffee and laughter echoes through the rooms. It’s more than just a cake; it’s a slice of tradition that invites everyone to gather around and savor moments together. So if you’re looking for a recipe that not only satisfies the taste buds but also touches the heart, this Amish Applesauce Cake is your answer.
Now, who’s ready to whip up a batch of this goodness? Let’s dive into the recipe, and I promise you won’t be disappointed. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newbie in the kitchen, this cake is foolproof and will have everyone asking for seconds. So dust off that apron, preheat your oven, and let’s get baking!
How to Make Amish Applesauce Cake
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Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup butter (1 stick), softened
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 egg, plus 1 yolk
- 2 cups applesauce
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1 cup raisins, optional
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare a 9 x 13-inch baking pan by spraying it with cooking spray or grease and flour a bundt pan for a different presentation.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and both sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and additional yolk until well combined.
- Stir in the applesauce and milk, mixing until the wet ingredients are fully incorporated.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and allspice.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on medium-low speed until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped nuts and raisins, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for about 40 minutes if using a 9 x 13-inch pan, or approximately 55 minutes if using a bundt pan. Test for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out with a few dry crumbs.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before dusting it with powdered sugar or adding your favorite frosting.
Flexible Ingredient Options for Every Cook
Out of milk or prefer a non-dairy option? You can substitute almond milk or oat milk with great results. No walnuts on hand? Pecans or even hazelnuts work just as well and add a delightful flavor twist. If you prefer to skip the raisins, dried cranberries can be a lovely alternative, adding a hint of tartness.
Best Ways to Store Leftover Amish Applesauce Cake
To keep your Amish Applesauce Cake fresh, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will stay moist at room temperature for up to three days. If you wish to keep it longer, refrigerate the cake for up to a week. For extended storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag—perfect for a quick treat whenever you crave it.
The Best Accompaniments for Amish Applesauce Cake
This delightful cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert experience. Serve it with a hot cup of coffee or tea to enhance the cake’s warm spice flavors. For breakfast, try it with a simple glass of cold milk or a warm chai latte for a comforting start to your day.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Amish Applesauce Cake
For a more intense spice flavor, consider doubling the cinnamon or adding a pinch of nutmeg. If you’re using a bundt pan, make sure to grease it thoroughly to prevent sticking. Want a moister cake? Substitute half the butter with applesauce. And remember, letting the cake cool completely before slicing ensures cleaner cuts and a more appealing presentation.
Seasonal Twists for Amish Applesauce Cake
In the fall, add diced fresh apples or pears into the batter for an extra fruity touch. During winter, incorporate a hint of ginger to complement holiday spices. Springtime calls for a zest of lemon added to the batter, while summer invites the inclusion of fresh blueberries or raspberries for a burst of freshness. Whatever the season, this cake can be adapted to highlight the best of what’s available.
FAQs:
Can I make this cake without nuts?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of nuts or have an allergy, you can simply omit them from the recipe. The cake will still be delicious and maintain its signature moistness and spice flavors.
What’s the best way to measure flour for this recipe?
For the best results, spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it with a knife. This method prevents packing and ensures you don’t end up with too much flour, which can make the cake dense.
Can I use homemade applesauce?
Yes, homemade applesauce is a wonderful option for this cake. Just ensure it’s smooth and not too chunky, as large pieces might disrupt the cake’s texture. Adjust the spices if your applesauce is unsweetened.
How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few dry crumbs. This means it’s cooked through but still moist. Start checking around the 35-minute mark for the 9 x 13-inch cake.
What if I don’t have a bundt pan?
No problem! You can bake this cake in a regular 9 x 13-inch pan, which is perfect for easy slicing and serving. If you prefer smaller cakes, divide the batter into two loaf pans and adjust the baking time accordingly.
Can I add other fruits to the batter?
Certainly! Adding fruits such as diced apples, pears, or even berries can enhance the cake’s flavor and texture. Just be mindful of the additional moisture they add, and ensure they’re evenly distributed in the batter.
Amish Applesauce Cake
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter softened
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2 cups applesauce
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1 cup raisins optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare a 9 x 13-inch baking pan by spraying it or greasing and flouring a bundt pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add both sugars, blending until mixture is smooth.
- Incorporate the egg and egg yolk, continuing to mix until fully combined.
- Stir in the applesauce and milk, blending well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. Gradually introduce the dry mix into the wet mixture, stirring on low to medium speed just until combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped nuts and optional raisins.
- Pour the prepared batter into your greased pan. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few crumbs; approximately 40 minutes for a 9 x 13-inch cake, and about 55 minutes for a bundt cake.
- Allow it to cool completely. Optionally, sprinkle with powdered sugar or frost as desired before serving.
